Page 13 - KC Parks 2017 Year in Review

pool was constructed and the statuary mounted on the central pedestal in 1925. The fountain is named for the
three mythological sea horses perched atop the stone pyramid.

On December 8, the Spirit of Freedom Fountain’s 5,000 lb. center sculpture was removed to commence fountain
repairs. The $865,000 renovation is funded by $750,000 in GO bonds, with the remaining money coming from the
Public Improvement Advisory Committee and private donations. The project is one of several approved by the City
Council for the fi rst year of the $800 million in GO bonds which voters approved in April.

Renovations include cleaning of the sculpture and replacement of the fountain pump, piping and lighting in and
around the fountain. Additionally, the sub-structure will be strengthened, granite steps cleaned and replaced
where needed, new bubblers placed in the fountain basin, and ADA access updated to current standards.
Located at Emanuel Cleaver II Boulevard at Cleveland Avenue, the Spirit of Freedom Fountain features a metallic
free-form sculpture designed by Richard Hunt. The monument sits on a pedestal in the middle of an elliptical-
shaped retaining pool with raised platforms that support the artwork. Water pours from the base of the
platform and there are six clusters of water jets in the interior of the basin. It was dedicated in 1981 to honor the
contributions of African-Americans in Kansas City and in memory of former City Councilman Bruce R. Watkins.

The renovations will be completed and the sculpture

returned in time for Fountain Day 2018.

For more information, visit kcfountains.org. 2017 Year in Review • kcparks.org 13