The downtown courthouse square is now a more comfortable place to enjoy the warm spring weather, thanks to Fayette Main Street, Inc. With the help of a group of Central Methodist University students participating in CMU Greek Week, the organization installed eight new benches around the courthouse lawn and downtown sidewalks last Wednesday.

Main Street Board President Deanna Cooper said she and other board members have already received multiple positive comments on the new benches. “They really set off the local streetscape and we could use several more around the downtown area. It was nice to see them being used and enjoyed in addition to the enhancement of our downtown area.”

The benches are a vintage design and were crafted of composite material in neutral colors, to maintain the historic look of the downtown square. Cooper said they are designed to last 50 years.

Additional benches will be placed on the southeast corner of the courthouse lawn once new cement is poured, near the recently planted tree.

In addition to the eight new benches, 10 new waste receptacles were placed around the square. And four pet waste stations will be installed soon, as well. They will feature bags and a container for animal waste to help curb the buildup of animal feces in grassy areas.

“The county commissioners and the community greatly intend for pet owners to use them,” Cooper said.

The project cost around $18,000 and there are opportunities to sponsor benches around the square. The Fayette Rotary Club purchased two benches that were placed on the northwest corner of the courthouse lawn. The two pieces display a plaque from Rotary International signifying the sponsorship.

Those interested in sponsoring a bench should email Cara Owings or Denise Haskamp at fayettemomainstreet@gmail.com.