There is still a significant distance to go before the dream of making Andalusia’s Dream Park handicapped-accessible a reality, organizers said Wednesday.

The renovations are estimated at $100,000 and include a 1,200 square-foot addition showcasing a handicapped-accessible swing, and the addition of 20 other “components” such as a ground-level mirror maze and a rock wall. Local businesses and individuals have committed funds to purchase all but two of the components. The renovations are being used as the civic project for “Absolutely Andalusia: Homecoming 2010,” a Year of the Small Towns and Downtowns event.

“Donations are still needed, and the deadline to purchase commemorative handprint tiles and fence pickets has been extended until Oct. 1,” said Kristy White, volunteer coordinator for the project.

“Only a fifth of those who purchased handprints showed up to make them at the Chamber (of Commerce) this weekend. But if you missed it, that’s OK. There are more upcoming dates.”

Remaining dates to make handprints are Sept. 20-24, from 8 a.m. until noon and 1 p.m. until 5 p.m.; Oct. 8, 1 p.m. until 6 p.m.; and Oct. 9, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Orders can be completed and dropped off to the Chamber of Commerce.

“Donations are tax deductible, and sponsors are still needed,” White said. Sponsor categories start at $25 and go up to $10,000, she said.

“As are volunteers. It’s going to take the community to make this project a success.”

The building is scheduled for Wed., Oct. 20, through Sun., Oct. 24. As many as 80 volunteers – 40 skilled and 40 unskilled – are needed each day. Skilled workers are defined as those comfortable using power saws. Volunteers are needed “to do everything from helping with the build, childcare or food preparation,” White said.

Shifts will run from 8 until noon, 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. each day.

Childcare will be provided for potty trained kids ages 2 and above, she said.

To sponsor a component or make a donation, call the Andalusia Chamber of Commerce at 222-2030.

Volunteers can sign up at the Andalusia Chamber of Commerce, LBW Community College or at WAAO.