A groundbreaking ceremony on February 11 at Edgewood County Park and Natural Preserve put the final piece into place to start construction of what will become a showcase for environmental education and volunteerism, named the Bill and Jean Lane Education Center.

The $1.3 million center provides the opportunity to increase the visibility of volunteer programs, recruit volunteers and expand environmental education efforts. The design of the center incorporates many of the latest “green” features, including reused materials, solar power and insulation made from recycled blue jeans. Even the site was chosen carefully to minimize environmental harm: it will be built on the site of an old house and use existing oak trees for shade. The design fits with the environmental ethics of the Lanes.

“The Board of Supervisors chose to recognize the many contributions to our community by naming the center in honor of Jean and Ambassador L.W. “Bill” Lane, Jr.,” said Board President Richard S. Gordon. “The Lanes were instrumental in bringing about many of the treasures in our community that we enjoy today. They provided a significant gift toward building the center and this gift among their many others will inspire our future generations to take care of our natural treasures.”

The generous contributions from the community, including Bill and Jean Lane and many dedicated volunteers at Edgewood who restore habitat, maintain the trails or lead walks for children and adults, speak volumes about the importance of this project,” said Julia Bott, executive director of the San Mateo County Parks Foundation. The Foundation was responsible for the campaign to secure funds for the project. “We couldn’t have done it without the help of many, especially the Friends of Edgewood,” she added. More than 1,000 families contributed towards the center.