The Parks Committee received approval to redesign the McCreery Park gazebo in the Saluda Board of Commissioners meeting on Aug. 10.

Committee member Thomas Monts hopes to enhance and preserve the gazebo by converting it into a tree house-style facility. Six plywood panels will be painted on both sides to mimic a tree and erected to enclose the gazebo.

According to Monts, the inside walls will remain bare to encourage imagination.

“There’s not too much detail so you can create your own ideas,” he said.

Along with the current entryways, additional rabbit and cloud holes will be cut into the six panels on the octagonal gazebo.

“This allows the children to snake in and out and have fun,” said Monts.

The tree house decorations will be completely modular.

“We were thinking of a more theatrical playhouse that could be converted back into a gazebo at any time,” said committee member Nancy Barnett.

“The actual structure will not be altered as it is still in great shape,” she added.

According to Barnett, the only changes to current gazebo will be the removal of the railing and seats, which will be stored.

She is looking to building enthusiasm for the park by completing a “quick and easy project for not a lot of money.”

Monts estimates a total cost of $3,000, and expects to employ an all-volunteer work force.

“It will give us momentum for future projects,” said Monts.

The Parks Committee, under the recommendation of City Administrator Jonathan Cannon, also plans to provide an ADA (Americans with Disabilities) compliant handicap parking space and wheel chair accessible ramp adjacent to the gazebo.

While the construction of the ramp and painting of the parking space will increase the expense, Barnett expects to procure donations from local construction companies.

“The brunt will not fall on taxpayers,” said Barnett. “We want this to be a community raised event.”