Dayton Parks Commission recommends Elise Stevens Park master plan; cost estimate $17M–$20M

The Dayton Parks Commission voted to recommend the Elise Stevens Park master plan to City Council on Oct. 7, 2025, after a presentation from MSA consultants and discussion of a multi-phase design and funding approach.

An MSA presenter summarized a single consolidated draft concept that would reuse historic silo foundations, add a splash pad and a multi-level accessible play area, expand pathways and river boardwalks, create a kayak launch and build a central pavilion and enlarged amphitheater. "Overall, all the phases combined, we're estimating between just shy of 17 to $20,000,000," the presenter said, describing that range as estimates in 2025 dollars and noting that costs for historic-structure work are allowances that will require further architectural study.

Why it matters: the proposal would change Elise Stevens Park from a primarily local recreation area into a destination park for events and river access, adding parking, restrooms and performance capacity that city staff and commissioners said could attract larger concerts and generate rental revenue.

What the plan would include: the presenter described five…