A final design has been selected by The Sandy Hook Permanent Memorial Commission to honor the 6 educators and 20 children killed on 12-14.  Elements of the design that the Commission liked including the core concept of a sycamore tree, the way the names were presented and the simplicity of the design, with the complete use of the land. 

Members called the design calming, and noted that it does not physically alter the ponds.  The Commission said the design team was emotionally balanced, humble and  professional.  The design was in the top three of all the families of loss that shared their opinion and was the overwhelming favorite of the families. 

The design may be value engineered as the project fees are subject to public bid.  Construction costs and the fee from the design team and consultants will be discussed next week.  The group's chairman has asked the design team for their fees, construction cost estimates and what their readiness is to take on the project.  A resolution on recommendation to the Board of Selectmen will also be made at that meeting. 

There is currently money in Newtown's Capital Improvement Plan and funding sources outside of town government.