Jason Futch
Reporter2@riverbendnews.org
A property in Jasper damaged by Hurricane Helene in 2024 is being transformed into a new green space with support from multiple county agencies.
The building at 112 Hatley St. in Jasper, which once housed Danceology’s Jasper location, is being cleared after the Hamilton County Board of County Commissioners approved plans to create a green space where people can sit and enjoy the area.
County Economic Development Director Chuck Burnett said that once the demolition is complete, construction of the green space will begin. He said he hopes that the project will be completed within 45 days. Once the building is completely demolished, a concrete bond coating will be applied to the exterior wall, which will be stucco-finished.
After the bonding and stucco finish are applied to the wall, Hamilton County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Mia Hunter will begin creating mural designs. The mural painting will commence following design approval, with a timeline dependent on the completion of the preceding steps.
The green space will include park benches and, eventually, a statue of Alexander Hamilton, one of the nation’s founding fathers. Burnett said the statue is expected to be unveiled soon, along with a visit from Governor Ron DeSantis.
According to both Burnett and Hunter, they are working with the governor’s office to set a date for the unveiling, with a target in mid-April.
The green space will also repurpose bricks from the demolished building, using them to create a walkway throughout the area.
“It is going to be beautiful when it is done,” Burnett said. He added that those aware of the project are excited for its completion.
The green space is part of broader redevelopment efforts in partnership with the Hamilton County Development Authority and Tourist Development Council. One of those projects, Grace’s Farm Kitchen, is expected to open in late March.