Lonehill Residents Association seeks R200 000 for dam restoration
The Lonehill community has already contributed to reviving its much-loved dam, but as fundraising continues, Lonehill Residents Association shares an update on what has been achieved so far, where the money is going, and when residents can expect to see tangible progress.
The Lonehill Residents Association has called on the community to support the revival of the Lonehill Dam, with its latest appeal asking residents to help keep the project moving forward.
Shelly Miller, spokesperson for the Lonehill Residents Association, said the association, together with the Braai Room and Lonehill Shopping Centre, has set a R200 000 fundraising target by the end of October to cover essential overheads needed to get Phase 1 of the Lonehill Dam Revival Project underway.
So far, the association has raised R10 000, leaving R190 000 still to be raised.
Read more: Investigation launched into worsening condition of Lonehill Dam
With residents asked to contribute, the focus is shifting from the fundraising campaign itself to what the money will deliver.
Miller said the association has been working with environmental specialists, engineers, Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, and community members to determine what is needed to restore the dam.
“Extensive investigations have already been completed, and for the first time we have a clear understanding of what is needed to bring the dam back to life,” Miller said. “Years of ageing infrastructure, environmental challenges and significant water loss have left the dam facing one of the greatest challenges in its history. Without intervention, we risk losing one of Greater Lonehill’s most treasured natural assets.”
Miller said the immediate goal is to raise the R200 000 required to get Phase 1 underway.
The association stated its fundraising barometer will be updated weekly, allowing residents to follow progress towards the target.
The project is also calling on local businesses, residents and community members to contribute.
“This is a community project, and we need the whole community behind it to make it happen,” Miller said.
Also read: Lonehill Dam bounces back from aggressive plant invasions
As the campaign continues, the key questions for residents are how the funds will be used, who will oversee them, what the restoration plan involves and when work will begin.
With R190 000 still needed to reach the initial target, the association hopes the community will continue to support the project.
“Every supporter makes a difference,” Miller said. “Every contribution brings the Lonehill Dam back to life.”
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