The City of Excelsior Springs approved plans to expand Crown Hill Cemetery through the construction of a new columbarium garden designed to meet rising demand for cremation options and long-term memorial space.During a recent city council meeting, Public Works Director Chad Birdsong explained the project will address limited capacity at the cemetery, which is nearing 90% full.“Times are also changing for the popularity of cremations versus traditional in-ground caskets and vaults,” stated Birdsong. “Especially due to the expense associated with it, cremations have become more popular nationwide and have reached 59% of funerals in Missouri.”The city worked with Gregor and Ward Inc. to design the columbarium garden site plan, which includes landscaping, seating areas and space for future additions. The first phase will construct a 72-niche octagonal columbarium with an ossuary capable of holding approximately 275 cremated remains. Two kios...