After six of a planned 20-plus community presentations, the Lewes Open Space Alliance Campaign Committee has secured 45% of its private donations goal in gifts and pledges.

The Open Space Alliance, a partnership between the Greater LewesFoundation and Sussex County Land Trust, seeks to raise $18.3 million to preserve nearly 120 acres of pristine Lewes land. About $5 million of that is projected to be raised by private donations.

"Individual support for this project has been incredible,” said Jim Ford, campaign chair. Ford said two recent presentations before groups smaller than 20 had generated $70,000+ in gifts and pledges.

Almost 90 residents attended an Aug. 15 presentation at the Senators clubhouse, and 20 more gathered Aug. 18 to learn about the campaign during an event hosted by Harvey and Tina Maclary in Harbor Point.

The land to be preserved includes 29 acres on both sides of Fourth Street in Lewes, and another 89 acres located between New Road and Savannah Road.

"Both parcels are extremely important for purposes of environmental and wildlife conservation as well as natural floodplains," said Mark Chura, SCLT executive director.

"Individual gifts are the essential foundation of our campaign," said Pam Costanzi, campaign manager. "The amount raised and number of people who donate are both essential to securing county, state and even federal contributions."

With 17 months to go before purchase agreements must be finalized, Ford and Costanzi are confident the groundwork is being laid for even larger gifts from foundations and public sources.

"At the same time, it is reassuring to know the Lewes community is showing such strong support, should we need to expand our private gift objective," said Ford.

A public update meeting will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 31, at Lewes Public Library.

For more information about the campaign and donating, go to osalewes.org or contact Pam Costanzi at 302-644-0107.