Cheekwood unveils $25 million parking overhaul

State of play: Overflow parking has gone to gravel lots on neighboring Metro Parks property for more than 40 years. But the latest agreement called for Cheekwood to develop an in-house parking plan.

• The new parking pavilion will add 750 parking spaces, electric vehicle charging stations and a spot for rideshare pick-ups, according to plans released Tuesday.
• The project, overseen by the Hastings architecture firm, also calls for a new entrance plaza with a ticketing center and new gardens.

What they're saying: Cheekwood CEO Jane MacLeod called the project "more than just a solution to an important need — it's an investment in the future of Cheekwood and our community."

What's next: Fundraising for the project is underway. Construction is expected to begin next year.

• MacLeod said "the continuation of Cheekwood's programming as well as its financial stability is dependent upon" the completion of the new project.
• "We would not normally start a campaign in this economic climate, but we have no choice," she added in a statement. "This is a 'must have,' not a 'nice to have.'"