2020-12-07

Mills Group supporting Parsons, WV project through pro-bono services

2020 marks the 15-year anniversary of Mills Group, an award-winning architecture firm with offices in Morgantown and Wheeling. In celebration of their clients and stakeholders, they offered free conceptual design services to public entities and non-profits that are working to improve their community through architecture, preservation, and planning efforts within the state.

“This offer of pro bono services is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to the communities that have supported our growth and success over the past 15 years,” says Managing Principal Michael Mills. “We truly believe that great design makes for great communities, and by doing this, we can help make a difference in West Virginia.”

One of the four winners is the City of Parsons/Parsons Blueprint Communities Team/Parsons Revitalization Organization (PRO ON TRAC). The project is a “pocket park” in downtown Parsons. Mills Group is providing a property assessment and utilization review. The key feature of the site design is the central pergola and the associated seat benches, circular planting beds, and lighting features. This space is meant to serve as a focal point and stage location for any programmed public event.

Mills Group will also be developing cost estimates, participating in project press releases, and providing cost-savings recommendations for the project.

"Our new pocket park will provide a vibrant meeting place for small gatherings, a lovely outdoor eating space, and a lively entertainment arena - all in the center of Downtown Parsons,” says Cynthia Kolsun, Executive Director for PRO ON TRAC.

Parsons Revitalization Organization (PRO) is a volunteer organization whose mission is to encourage community development. ON TRAC is West Virginia’s version of the National Main Street program.