Last week’s rain forced the temporary closing of the Newlin Grist Mill. Tony Shahan, Newlin’s director, said storms on Aug. 4 and Aug. 7 “devastated” the park.
“Water entered five of our buildings, wrecked trails, washed away boardwalks and bridges, and damaged parking lots. While earlier repairs to the dam held, there was damage to both the stone and earthen dams. We are still assessing the damages,” Shahan said in a press release.
The flooding came after the park was already hurting because of the Coronavirus pandemic, which forced the cancellation of programs, interrupted funding, and suspended restoration projects.
“This latest crisis has forced us to close the Newlin Grist Mill and Park to the public because there are so many hazards. Newlin Grist Mill buildings, parks, trails, and parking lots are closed. During the past few months, we have observed what the park means to our community, and so we do not take this action lightly. Safety is always our first consideration therefore, we ask everyone to please stay away for the time being. This is hard for us to ask but is for your safety and will enable us to respond to our most critical needs first,” Shahan said
He added that the park would need volunteers and supporters to help the park get back to speed. Plans are being developed to clean up the site and recover what can be recovered.
Money is also needed, he said. Insurance will cover some of the damage to the buildings, but not the grounds. Donations are welcomed. No date was set for reopening.
