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Council approves $13,700 schematic design work for River Center Park and City Hall signage amid debate over future use
Summary
Council approved a contract with Edge Group for schematic landscape and signage concepts for River Center Park and City Hall. Councilmembers and Rotary representatives discussed whether the park's footprint should be preserved or reconfigured for potential redevelopment and downtown activation.
The Sylvania City Council approved an agreement Feb. 3 with Edge Group to produce schematic design concepts for River Center Park (also referred to as Rotary Park) and new signage for City Hall, appropriating up to $13,700 for the work (Ordinance No. 26-2025).
Mr. Shaw (Public Service staff) described the project as two-part: concepts for City Hall signage and schematic renderings for the small downtown park near the Wingate Hotel. Councilmember Sanford and other members said the work would help the city and the Sylvania Rotary Club evaluate options, including a new fountain and refreshed plaza design.
Councilmember Hainen pressed for clarity about how permanent a public-space commitment the city was making to the park and whether Rotary’s participation would be contractually bound. "I don't want to... inadvertently commit ourselves to a permanent arrangement that we haven't fully considered," Hainen said, urging caution before making long-term decisions about the park’s footprint.
Rotary representatives told council they intend to participate financially in a new fountain and agreed to review concepts from the consultant before committing funds. Staff said the schematic work will address multiple concepts, including smaller park footprints, outdoor seating and activation opportunities tied to downtown businesses, and lighting for evening use.
Why it matters: The corner parcel at Main and Monroe functions as a visible downtown entry point. Changes to its design or footprint could affect future private development opportunities, public gathering space and agreements with local nonprofit partners.
What the council approved: Ordinance No. 26-2025 accepts Edge Group’s proposal for professional landscape-architecture schematic concepts and City Hall signage design, with a funding appropriation not to exceed $13,700. The ordinance passed by voice vote as an emergency measure.
Next steps and caveats: Staff will present schematic concepts to Rotary and the council. Council members asked staff to frame the designs so that they preserve flexibility: the city can move forward with public-space improvements but retain the option to consider alternative uses for the parcel in the future. Rotary’s financial participation will be determined after the consultant’s concepts and estimated construction costs are provided.
