Charleston native funds $500K landmark project to boost downtown tourism

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CHARLESTON, Mo., (KBSI) — A Charleston native is helping fund a major public art project aimed at attracting visitors and enhancing the city’s downtown.

Mary Manley, who was raised in Charleston, has pledged $500,000 toward what is being called the Charleston Landmark Project. Manley is the descendant of Joseph W. Moore, who donated the land that became Charleston in 1837. She now lives in England, where she co-owns an antiquarian bookstore with her husband.

City officials said the project will feature a large, kinetic public artwork designed to move or change from throughout the day. The installation is planned for Moore Park, near the intersection of Main Street and East Pecan Street, a central area along a major route through the city.

The City Council will handle landscaping and will own and maintain the artwork once completed. The land for the project was donated by Dr. Ron and Diane Petersen.

Organizers said more than 140 artists responded to an international call for submissions, with six finalists selected to develop proposals. An exhibition of those proposals will be on display for about a month beginning April 16 during the Dogwood Azalea Festival, allowing the public to view designs and provide feedback.

A final design is expected to be announced this summer, with construction anticipated to take up to two years.

Project leaders said the goal is to create a landmark that will draw visitors to Charleston and serve as a focal point for the community.