A follow-up to Writers Block, garden would have celebrated science in Princeton.
By: Marjorie Censer
Quark Park, the garden proposed by the organizers of last year’s Writers Block, will not open this year as originally planned, because of a lack of funding.
Alan Goodheart, one of the founders of Princeton Occasions and a landscape architect working on the project, said the organizers were not yet able to raise enough money, but the park is slated to open next year.
"We didn’t find anybody to show us the money yet, but we have great expectations," Mr. Goodheart said.
The park was originally scheduled to be on display from Memorial Day to Thanksgiving in the same space behind Palmer Square occupied by Writers Block. The organizers had hoped to raise $100,000 $65,000 of it by May 1. Kevin Wilkes, an architect and founder of Princeton Occasions who is one of the project leaders, said the group has $550 in hand and pledges totaling $5,000.
Mr. Wilkes said organizers invested $150,000 in last year’s Writers Block and just $25,000 of that was recouped at a sale auction. Mr. Wilkes personally spent about $35,000. He decided that Quark Park must rely on outside funding.
"Last year, because we used our own money, we could make it happen very quickly," he said. But finding outside financial support will require more time, he added.
Additionally, Quark Park’s delay means it will have to find a new location. Construction of the luxury Hulfish North development is expected to begin on the location behind Palmer Square, so Mr. Wilkes said he is actively looking for a new site for the park.
The park will join prominent local scientists and mathematicians with local artists, architects and builders to create outdoor garden exhibits. U.S. Rep. Rush Holt (D-12) and Princeton University President Shirley Tilghman have already expressed their support for the project. Mr. Goodheart said the displays are not likely to be buildings, as they were in Writers Block.
Mr. Wilkes said the park is still in the planning stages, but its exhibits may include demonstrations or allow for audience participation.
"It has the potential to be something between a summer festival and a science fair," Mr. Wilkes said.
Mr. Goodheart said the longer time frame with which to work on the garden could potentially be beneficial.
"Like many things, the first time out, it’s probably better to go more quickly and just do it," he said. "But you can’t get the same spontaneity the next time, because you know a lot and your interests grow. … Now we’re going out and talking to scientists and artists. It’s bound to be a little more complicated."

