BY LISA DONOVAN
The Cincinnati Enquirer
City officials want to organize a fund-raising campaign to generate at least $2.5 million to restore and preserve Cincinnati's crumbling centerpiece -- the Tyler Davidson Fountain.
"The ultimate goal of the campaign is to involve the whole community in celebrating the gift of the Fountain . . donated to the people of Cincinnati in 1871," wrote Kevin Shepard, director of general services, in a report recommending the fund-raising effort.
In addition to small donations from the public, officials hope corporate foundations as well as charitable trusts and estates will offer support.
The city has $150,000 available for the estimated $1.65 million restoration project. Fifth-Third Bank has also raised money for the effort.
The money would be funneled into a restricted-fund account in the city treasury and help establish a $1 million trust account at the Greater Cincinnati Foundation. Donations would be tax deductible. Officials want the fund-raising campaign to be led by a Cincinnatian respected for civic spirit and accomplishment. A committee should be tapped not only to help lead the campaign but to advise the city on the custody and use of the trust funds.
The proposal also calls for hiring a fund-raising consultant for $50,000.
The fountain is not only a familiar icon to locals but also for anyone familiar with the 1970s and '80s sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati on which the 127-year-old "Genius of Water" was featured prominently in the show's opening credits.
A Chicago-based architectural and planning firm recommended the restoration, which is part face lift, part plumbing job.
Cracks have caused deterioration in the largely bronze sculpture, as well as the fountain's structural supports and pipes, according to Chicago-based Harry Weese Associates, hired by the city to examine the fountain.
If Cincinnati City Council approves the measure, officials would like to move ahead with bidding and start work on the fountain in 1999.
Fountain falling apart June 12, 1998
