Volunteers armed with chainsaws, rakes and wheelbarrows gathered at the former Third Presbyterian Church in Chester, taking the first steps toward an ambitious plan to transform the fire-damaged landmark into a vibrant public art space.
The project, known as Cathedral Gardens, would convert the long vacant property at 9th and Potter streets into a mosaic-filled destination featuring sculptures, flowers, winding pathways and even a coffee or ice cream bar.
Leading the effort is Tucker Rodkey, executive director of the nonprofit Legacy Arts Chester, who sees the site as an opportunity to create something new from the remnants of a devastating loss…