Forest Park Forever Announces Renovation of Mounted Patrol Horse Stable

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jasmine Evans, Forest Park Forever
314-561-3290 | jevans@forestparkforever.org

St. Louis, May 30, 2013 – Forest Park Forever, in coordination with the city’s Department of Parks, Recreation & Forestry, today announced its plan to reopen the St. Louis Metropolitan Mounted Patrol Horse Stable.

The stable, formerly an airplane hangar, has been closed since August 2009, when roof repairs led to the discovery of elevated lead levels due to lead paint.  Both horses and personnel were relocated to another part of the park as a precaution.  

Since the closure, the city and Forest Park Forever have worked together to create a safe and permanent home for the police and their horses.  In late 2012, an anonymous donor came forward to provide the funds to reopen the stable.

“The St. Louis Mounted Patrol brings an added layer of security and presence to Forest Park,” said Gary Bess, City Parks Director.  “Since their relocation we have explored several options to find the funding to move them back.  We are so thankful to the generous donor who came forward and allowed us to take on this important project.”  

Lesley Hoffarth, President and Executive Director of Forest Park Forever, said, “This gift is yet another example of how much Forest Park means to our community.  Through this amazing donation we are able to provide a safe home for the mounted patrol division and, at the same time, restore a major Park landmark.”

Work began in late May and is slated to be completed by the end of October.  BSI Constructors has been awarded the contract for the work, which will include lead abatement, installation of a new roof and improvements to the mounted patrol’s office.  

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About Forest Park Forever
In 1986, Forest Park Forever, a private, not-for-profit organization, was founded to work in partnership with the City of St. Louis and the department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry to restore, maintain and sustain Forest Park as one of America’s great urban public parks for the enjoyment of all – now and forever.