News

Crafting a Legacy: The Unique Partnership Between Anne Springs Close Greenway and The Stone Man

Anne Springs Close GreenwaySM and The Stone Man have cultivated a unique partnership since 2017, showcasing how artistry and nature can come together to create spaces that captivate the eye and foster community connection.

The Stone Man, based in Fort Mill, SC and serving the greater Charlotte region, brings over 20 years of experience to outdoor living projects. They specialize in turning dreams into reality, crafting spaces that blend functionality with beauty.

Led by owner Alan Lochridge, The Stone Man has made significant in-kind contributions that enhance the aesthetic and functional elements of the Greenway. These projects include:

  • Founders Dairy Barn landscape wall: A crafted feature that reflects the historical essence of the Dairy Barn while enhancing its functionality and beauty.
  • Schroering Forest Playground entry arch: A welcoming gateway to a space where children explore, play and get close to nature.
  • Crandall Bowles Children’s Farm entry arch: A stunning focal point that invites families and individuals to learn about farming and experience the wonder of animals.
  • Path of Honor: Officially launched in January 2025, this commemorative path, set along the Jane McColl Wildflower Garden in front of the Greenway Gateway, allows donors to make a lasting mark on the landscape that supports the mission of the Greenway.

These enduring structures not only highlight the craftsmanship of The Stone Man but have also transformed key spaces into timeless landmarks that add meaningful layers to the Greenway’s mission of connecting people to nature and community.

Alan Lochridge shared his thoughts on this partnership: “At The Stone Man, we believe in building spaces that bring people together, and Anne Springs Close Greenway has been an ideal partner for us in this mission. From the entryway arches at the Crandall Bowles Children’s Farm and Schroering Forest Playground to the memorial walk leading to the Greenway Gateway, each project has allowed us to merge craftsmanship with purpose. Seeing the community enjoy these spaces makes our work incredibly fulfilling, and we look forward to continued collaboration with the Greenway to enhance this natural treasure.”

In addition to these transformative projects, The Stone Man’s commitment extends to event sponsorships that support vital Greenway programs, including Friends of the Greenway gatherings, the Greenway Race Series and key fundraising events such as the Green Gala and the Taste of Fort Mill. These contributions play an integral role in the success of the Greenway’s events and initiatives, enriching the lives of the thousands who visit each year.

As we celebrate the many ways The Stone Man has shaped the Greenway, we also look to the future with excitement. Their passion for creating timeless, meaningful spaces perfectly aligns with our mission, ensuring that the Anne Springs Close Greenway remains a place for people to celebrate and experience nature for generations to come.