BELFAST — Waterfall Arts has received an anonymous contribution of $25,000 for their capital project, Waterfall Rising, as contractors finish the first phase for the new parking lot and landscape design at the former Governor Anderson School.

“We are so grateful to the donor for this gift,” said Executive Director Kim Fleming, in a news release. “We have received growing generous support from many wonderful donors throughout Belfast and New England,” she said, “and we are thrilled that this timely contribution has kicked off our summer fundraising.”

The current project, designed by OPAL Architecture, will rebuild and properly drain the parking lot and clarify the flow of foot and vehicle traffic. Farley, Inc, the contractor, began excavations in April, and has worked to ensure that the Friday Farmers’ Market has remained accessible and safe.

“This work begins the project’s five phases,” Fleming continued. “The first three phases – 1. Sitework, 2. Roof replacement, and 3. Replacement of all 72 windows with energy-efficient, insulated glass units – are fully funded. Phase 2 and 3 of the project are funded by an Environmental Protection Agency grant thanks to the support of Belfast Economic Development Director Thomas Kittredge.”

Waterfall Rising Chairman and Waterfall Arts co-founder, Alan Crichton, said, “Our deep appreciation once again to our anonymous donor. We continue to raise funds for the fourth phase – a renovated interior entrance and galleries with more than twice the space to enjoy future exhibits and events, plus a lift that will make three levels accessible to all. The fifth and final phase will be an addition with a lobby and gallery space. We need and welcome your support to realize our goals and provide an accessible, vibrant arts center for the community!”

Once this project is complete, Waterfall will be ready to meet the community’s needs the next eighty years and breathe new life into the former Governor Anderson School building, according to Waterfall Arts.

Fleming said, “Work on an exciting new professional glassblowing studio, Waterfall Arts Glassworks, is underway and targeted to open in July. Waterfall Arts Glassworks has also partnered with the Belfast Area High School (BAHS) to offer glassblowing classes for the 2021/2022 academic year.  BAHS will be one of only eight public high schools in the country to offer glassblowing as an elective.”

To learn more go to www.waterfallarts.org. 

If you would like to schedule a tour of the building or talk to a Waterfall Rising Committee member, please call 207-338-2222, email at info@waterfallarts.org,