Lime Hollow News

Ready to Grow!

Launched at its 10th Anniversary celebration in October 2003, the LHCEC "Ready to Grow" campaign is an initiative to raise public funds toward the construction and opening of the non-profit organization's new visitor center on McLean Road, in Cortland NY (near the Tompkins County border).

With $250,000 raised to date from the Center's membership, board, grants, and the surrounding Cortland and Tompkins County communities - including the innate cost of the donated, highly unique log structure itself (valued at $100,000) - the LHCEC broke ground on the structure in December 2004, has completed the building's foundation, and began erecting the log walls on February 3rd, with plans to enclose the building soon thereafter (thereby completing the first phase of the project). A second phase (mechanical systems, interior finishing, etc.) will then commence, as the campaign allows.

Fostered by its Board of Directors and "Ready to Grow" campaign committee, the "Ready to Grow" campaign is currently underway, and included numerous sponsorship and naming opportunities for generous granting organizations, corporate sponsors, and members of the community.

While the Center intends to continue its school programs and other activities at its existing location and trailhead on 3091 Gracie Road (near the Tunison Laboratory of Aquatic Science) - the organization expects the new McLean Road structure and trailhead to provide Board and staff with much-needed, modern, and environmentally-minded space for additional programs.

The visitor center will also afford LHCEC opportunities to generate self-sustaining revenue streams such as a nature-oriented gift shop and landscaping/nursery services.