Area motorists once stopped at the gas station located at theintersection of North Jackson and West Monticello streets for fueland snacks. If construction goes as planned, Brookhaven residentswill be able to bring their busy lives to a halt at that samelocation and take in the sights and sounds of downtown aroundEaster.

For about a month, construction crews have been installingelectric and water lines, mapping out a design, pouring concreteand laying brick in order to create Trinity Park.

“The people who work downtown will be able to bring their lunchand just take a break,” said the Rev. Anne Matthews of theEpiscopal Church of the Redeemer. “And hopefully as people driveby, their day will get a little brighter seeing a park.”

The recreational area will be more than just a place for peopleto exercise or enjoy being outdoors. The park serves as a gift andconstant reminder of generosity.

About three years ago, Episcopal Church of the Redeemer memberBud Urban donated the money necessary to have the gas stationremoved and implement the initial landscaping, which included thetopsoil, grass, trees and design for the park.

“I think this was Bud’s vision and there were many people in thechurch who thought it was a good idea,” said Matthews about Urban,who died in 2009. “He wanted the church to have a park.”

The church has also been raising its half of the estimated$40,000 to complete the park, which Matthews attributes to thedelay of the ground’s completion.

“We’re a small church,” said Matthews. “It takes a good bit oftime to raise a chunk of money.”

The initial plans for the park will feature flowers in bloom allyear long, a walking path and a water fountain. The grounds willalso be open to the public.

“We hope people will take advantage of having a downtown parkand just enjoy it,” said Matthews. “We think it’s going to be abeautiful enhancement of not only the church and its grounds, butthat whole block and part of town.”

Matthews added that onlookers should be able to see a workingwater fountain by Christmas and the church is currently acceptingdedications to construct a fence around the park’s perimeter.

“The fence will enhance the park without obstructing any view,”said Matthews.

Matthews also added that the shape of the area would allude tothe park’s name.

“The fountain in itself will be of a Trinitarian design,” saidMatthews. “The cross-shape walk will go literally around thefountain.”

While there are no plans for additional parking, visitors willbe welcome to park in the church’s lot. However, the church willconsider the installation of streetlights since the park will beleft open.

“One of the things we’re going to look at is lighting, to notonly show off the park, but also to discourage vandalism,” saidMatthews. “We really want to keep the park open; it sends a badmessage if you dedicate a park to God and keep it closed.”