Hartman Reserve received McElroy Trust grant toward remodeling project

CEDAR FALLS | The R.J. McElroy Trustees recently awarded a $200,000 matching grant to support the remodeling project of the Hartman Interpretive Center's east wing.

The Friends of Hartman Reserve, along with the Black Hawk County Conservation Board, last May announced plans to renovate a portion of the center, citing energy inefficiencies, structural elements that must be replaced and lack of programming space.

Plans specify a ground-level entrance for greater accessibility; a four-seasons room with a larger deck; a library; a restroom; and a separate classroom to allow educational programming indoors.

"The award is a tremendous endorsement of our plans to remodel the East Wing," said Connie Svoboda, development coordinator at Hartman.

Because it's a matching grant, donors from this point forward will see their contribution multiply dollar for dollar until the $200,000 is raised.

Svoboda said contributions to the capital campaign have been steady. She hopes the challenge from the McElroy Trust will accelerate progress toward the fundraising goal of $2.2 million.

Donations are tax-deductible.

Donors can go online at http://www.HartmanReserve.org to view plans and download a pledge form or contact Svoboda for an appointment.

Civic organizations can learn about the renovation by inviting members of the Friends of Hartman Reserve Board to speak. To schedule a visit, call (319) 277-2187.

Hartman Reserve Nature Center is at 657 Reserve Drive. The Interpretive Center is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. during the week and from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Trails are open from sunrise to sundown daily.

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Hartman Reserve received McElroy Trust grant toward remodeling project