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Downtown Evanston urges paving, trees and seating at Fountain Square south plaza
Summary
The Downtown Evanston Business District recommended extending brick pavers, adding trees, upgrading lighting and installing more seating at the south end of Fountain Square Plaza to improve aesthetics, programming and sanitary conditions during events.
Andy Vick, executive director of the Downtown Evanston Business District (Special Service Area No. 9), told the committee he supports planned infrastructure upgrades for the south end of Fountain Square Plaza.
“Extending the brick pavers over the existing grass, planting additional trees, upgrading the overhead lighting, and adding more public seating will all result in a desirable aesthetic and functional additions to the South Plaza,” Vick said. He told the committee that Downtown Evanston frequently programs the space for events including the Summer Sounds concert series and Thursday night markets and that the changes would improve visitor experience and reduce landscaping obligations.
Vick said the improvements would eliminate repeated complaints that visitors sit on grass in unsanitary conditions and would create a more attractive gateway to the downtown business district. He acknowledged the grass would no longer be available for dog owners to use as an informal pet area, but said the space would benefit a broader group of residents and visitors.
Vick asked the committee to forward the proposed project to city council with a favorable recommendation.
