Progress and Positivity: Rebuilding and Moving Forward

As we prepare for this weekend’s Fall Festival, we’re feeling grateful and energized by all that has been accomplished in recent months. While the devastating July storm left its mark, the Historic Yellow Springs team and our partners have worked tirelessly to restore and strengthen this storied village.

Visitors have already noticed key improvements, from continued tree debris cleanup and repairs to the courtyard fountain, to the replacement of fences along Yellow Springs and Art School Roads, and even new downspouts and gutters throughout the property. Each of these steps brings us closer to restoring the beauty and safety for you.

The top question though is about the Yeaworth building, housing Chester Springs Library, and we are thrilled to share positive news and progress! Thanks to the persistence of our team and the support of West Pikeland Township, our insurance company has now approved the primary funding needed for the necessary structural roof upgrade. Engineers’ plans were finalized and sealed this week, and we have applied for the building permit needed to begin reconstruction. Additionally, contractors have secured the building, which will soon allow the library to safely prepare the interior for the next phase of work.

Equally exciting, despite the months of waiting, the condition of the library interior remains in excellent condition. Around-the-clock air filtration, climate control, and frequent visits from our maintenance staff have kept the space stable and safe despite the outside appearance of tarping. Professional air quality testing has confirmed that the building remains in great shape, a testament to the care and vigilance of everyone involved.

While it’s been a long road to reach this point, the steps taken while waiting are sure to ease the process for construction. The plan is set, the project has been discussed at length in anticipation of moving forward, and once the first hammers swing, we anticipate completion in months, not years.

Through every step of this process, our guiding goal has been to ensure that the village of Yellow Springs remains a vibrant, engaging place for all who visit. We look forward to sharing updates including photos, videos, and progress milestones, as this important project takes shape.

Thank you for your continued enthusiasm and support. It’s your care for this village that makes all of this possible and together, we’re ensuring that Historic Yellow Springs continues to thrive for generations to come.