BUHL PARK $4.1M fund-raiser for renovations nears goal swiftly

Frank and Julia Buhl donated the park in 1914.
HERMITAGE, Pa. -- A $4.1 million capital fund-raising campaign for extensive renovations at Buhl Park is most of the way to its goal, even though it was just announced to the public Wednesday.
Stephen Gurgovits, campaign chairman and president and CEO of First National Bank of Pennsylvania, said pledges and gifts of $3.6 million have already been made by local businesses, foundations and individuals.
J.B. and Joyce Winner and Susan Pokorney are co-chairing the community phase of the campaign, which seeks to raise an additional $500,000 through service organizations, direct solicitations and other means.
The campaign will fund a $1.5 million restoration and renovation of the park casino; $500,000 for construction of a new pool house; $250,000 each for restoring the shoreline and other improvements at Lake Julia and restoration and repair of the Lake Julia Bridge; and $1.6 million for an endowment to maintain park services.
The park was a gift to the community in 1914 from Frank and Julia Buhl.
Located on 350 acres, it has a 7.4-acre lake, a performing arts center, gazebo, arboretum, golf and driving range facilities, tennis courts, a developing wetland and other features.
The campaign steering committee includes Bob Jazwinski and Bill Perrine, co-chairmen; Chip Mastrian, treasurer; Rex Knisley, major gifts division chairman; and Pat O'Mahony, park general manager.