250-Year-Old Windmill Needs $720K In Repairs

HOLLAND, Mich. (AP) - Officials say repairs to the 250-year-old DeZwaan windmill at Windmill Island Gardens in southwestern Michigan will cost more than $700,000 and work isn't expected to start until fall 2013.

The Grand Rapids Press reports Wednesday that Holland Mayor Kurt Dykstra is optimistic that a fundraising campaign could raise enough money to restore the Holland landmark. But he says the least disruptive plan would be to launch the project after the summer wedding season concludes.

City Council members learned this week that windmill repairs would cost at least $721,000 and another $125,000 is needed to restore the island's carousel and organ. The council is expected to vote Sept. 5 on creating a fundraising committee.

Windmill Island Gardens is a popular destination during the city's annual Tulip Time festival each spring.

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