State Aid Approved To Refurbish Vernon's Landmark War Memorial Tower

VERNON, CT — A total of $2.5 million in state aid has been earmarked for Vernon's war memorial tower to pay for refurbishing one of north central Connecticut's most noticeable landmarks.

The State Bond Commission approved the funding last week.

The tower sits atop Fox Hill at Henry Park in Vernon.

Securing funds to reinforce the stone and mortar on the tower is something Vernon Mayor Daniel Champagne said town officials have ben working on since last year. Champagne, who is also the 35th District state senator, said the Bond Commission emerged as the likely funding source. State Rep. Tim Ackert also signed onto the request.

Champagne said he and Ackert applied for the money last summer, at the state level after a request for federal assistance fee through.

According to Bond Commission notes, estimates to repair the stone and masonry work could run as high as $4.3 million. Champagne said the $2.5 million could end up paying for most of the work, but added "We'll find the extra money if we have to."

The tower is a true landmark in the area. It's on Vernon's town seal and public safety patches. It's on local street signs. A star hangs on the tower each winter holiday season that can be seen for miles.

The tower, which stands 73 feet tall was dedicated in 1937 to honor veterans of all wars. When open, visitors cam take stairs to the top and take in a panoramic view of the area.

The recommended rehabilitation and restoration work on the tower is based on the findings of Silva Engineering, conducted in February 2021, according to the Bond Commission application obtained by Patch via a Freedom of Information request.

Champagne was clear the restoration of the tower itself was the priority. The application also mentions improvements like easier handicapped access to the promenade and plaza, new lighting and parking improvements, restoring or replacing the brass railings, restoring the metal door at the base of the tower and updating the memorial plaques.

Town officials said that, when refurbished, the tower will enrolled as a national historic landmark.