In three special ways, the Longevity Bench Project is making strides in Manchester.
Four new Longevity Benches have recently been installed, completing the central walking loop in Manchester called “the heater” by local residents. They bring the total bench count to eleven. Thirty is the goal for this project founded to increase the walkability of Manchester—a bench every half mile along popular walking loops, is the mantra. An up-to-date map of the bench locations can be found at Longevitybenchproject.org. Assuming we get through this challenging time quickly and are back to celebrating special events with fun gatherings, we have two for you to put on your calendar and look forward to.
A town wide “Bench-to-Bench Walk for Longevity” is being planned for Saturday, May 16, immediately following a luncheon cookout at Legion Hall in Manchester. The Walk will kick off with a reception and awards ceremony, prize drawings and distribution of newly updated Bench Project brochures. All walkers are welcome. Sign-ups for a new initiative called “Bench Buddies” will be taken from both buddies who prefer not to walk alone and friendly volunteer buddies who are happy to walk with them. At this time, the planning committee is hopeful this event will take place as it is scheduled, as it encourages good health and fitness in the out of doors.
Featured on the Longevity Bench Project’s July 4th float will be the 375th Anniversary Commemorative Bench. The plaque on the bench will honor Manchester’s anniversary and the many generous town walkers who donate to the Project on its behalf. The bench will be installed on the prepared concrete pad at a Pine Street trailhead to Powder House Hill. Town boards approved the land for this special use. The funding drive for this bench has begun.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to submit a creative photo of people of all ages and abilities using one of the eleven Longevity Benches by May 11th for a chance to win a seat on the Bench Project’s float in the Manchester July 4th parade.
The Longevity Bench Project’s goal is to make Manchester a more walkable town - enhancing the social, healthy outdoor experiences for people of all ages and abilities. For more information, contact Project founder/president, Lisa Bonneville at 978-526-4491, or contact@LongevityBenchProject.org. or by mail at Longevity Bench Project, Inc., P.O.Box 145, Manchester, MA 01944
