By Scott Mims

Thorsby’s Town Council is getting quotes for a lighting upgrade at Richard Wood Park. The initial cost and installation of the lights would be funded by proceeds from past Thorsby Swedish Festivals.
The plan is to purchase more decorative poles with brighter lights so that less fixtures would be needed, Mayor Dearl Hilyer said. There are currently about 20 light fixtures in the park, which are crafted from PVC pipe.
The town also wants to make sure wiring is safe and up-to-code.
“We’re going for a more decorative type look,” Hilyer said.
Options include either purchasing new lights or renting them from Alabama Power Company.
Renting could cost from $15 to $30 per light per month, while doing the project alone could cost between $16,000 and $20,000, Hilyer estimated. If the town chooses to rent, Alabama Power would likely handle the installation.
Once the council obtains the desired number of quotes, it will report back to the Swedish Festival Committee, which coordinates how the Swedish Festival funds are used.
“Part of the drive of that festival is to put money back into the town, especially the park,” Hilyer said.
The new lighting is next in a series of projects to improve the appearance of Richard Wood Park, which sits in the town center along U.S. 31. The pavilion was restored recently.
Hilyer hopes the project can get off the ground within the next three months.

By The Clanton Advertiser staff

Thorsby officials’ plan to upgrade the lighting at Richard Wood Park is worthwhile.
Richard Wood Park is an integral part of the Thorsby community. The park is probably the main landmark people notice while driving through town. The park serves as the centerpiece of the town’s parades and as the venue for the newly instituted Movies in the Park events.
The park also has its practical uses. Many residents—and non-residents—use the park as a way to spend a nice day or for entertainment for children.
All of these are reasons why Thorsby leaders should ensure the park remains as up-to-date as possible.
The pavilion was restored recently, and lighting appears to be next on the agenda.
The initial cost and installation of the lights would be funded by proceeds from past Thorsby Swedish Festivals, and the plan is to purchase more decorative poles with brighter lights so that fewer fixtures would be needed, Mayor Dearl Hilyer said.
Options include either purchasing new lights or renting them from Alabama Power Company.
Whatever is decided by Hilyer, the town council and the Swedish Fest Committee, which is in charge of Festival funds, they would be wise to make the investment in Richard Wood Park, one of Thorsby’s most important assets.