JACKSONVILLE, NC (WITN) – Changes are taking place at a popular garden honoring military members.
The Lejeune Memorial Gardens are being modernized for visitors. A project 20 years in the making is now beginning.
Sharon Klenotiz’s mother, Pat Walker, was one of the eight people who came up with the idea.
“It’s very emotional,” Klenotiz said. “I wish Mom was here because she put all the work into it.”
Within the next six months, the construction site at Lejeune Memorial Gardens will soon be transformed into a welcoming area with restrooms for visitors. The project cost $777,000, raised by the city, county, township and military.
“Not having a restroom is a big problem,” said Onslow County Commissioner Paul Buchanan. “Especially when you have guest speakers and they need to use a restroom. You have to get them off the premises and put them somewhere else.”
Jacksonville Deputy City Manager Ron Massey says the city is a must-visit place, and with the changes underway, it will be on many more destination lists.
“Take a day trip to Jacksonville,” Massey said. “It’s a 15- to 30-minute drive to visit the museum and tour the gardens.”
Those responsible hope that the idea will now become reality and that this is a step in the right direction for the city and the district.
“It’s incredible to see the growth,” Klenotiz said. “We’ve been in this town since 1979, so it’s great to see the growth and hopefully it continues.”
Klenotiz says she wishes her mother were here to witness the garden renovation.
“She put all the work into it,” Klenotiz said. “She was an amazing woman. She accomplished a lot, so it’s great to see this being built. We’re building this for her.”
The City of Jacksonville announces a grand opening ceremony once construction is completed.
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