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Dayton Parks Commission backs Concept 1 for LC Stevens master plan, prioritizes restrooms and refined parking
Summary
MSA presented two high-level design concepts for LC Stevens Park; commissioners signaled a majority preference for Concept 1, favoring preservation of historic features, adding restrooms (the top public request) and exploring parking adjustments and pavilion options.
The Dayton Parks Commission on Sept. 2 reviewed two high-level concepts for the LC Stevens master plan and signaled a majority preference for Concept 1, which emphasizes preserving the park’s existing historic features while adding amenities.
Eleanor, a planner with MSA, told the commission the public-engagement process produced 134 unique household survey responses representing “over 400 people” in aggregate and that restroom facilities were the single most-requested amenity. She presented two refined concepts: Concept 1 focuses on natural play areas, enhanced amphitheater seating and reuse of existing farm structures; Concept 2 places a larger emphasis on parking and a rentable pavilion with restrooms.
Commissioners debated tradeoffs between preserving open, natural character and providing parking capacity for large events. Eleanor said Concept 1’s primary parking cluster would provide about 120 spaces “give or take” plus roughly 40 additional stalls in a secondary lot, while Concept 2’s layout was described as closer to 220 spaces. Commissioners raised recurring concerns about overflow events (past gatherings were described as drawing several hundred people), the use of grass for overflow parking, and options such as shuttles or active-transport encouragement for routine visitors.
Members also discussed building types and long-term costs for restroom and pavilion facilities, noting that a high-end masonry building could cost substantially more than a simpler wood or metal structure and would carry higher maintenance obligations. Commissioners asked staff and MSA to refine Concept 1 to examine whether additional parking could be incorporated at the Clover Overlook area without losing the park’s historic character.
The commission directed staff and MSA to prepare revised plans that incorporate public priorities—especially permanent restrooms—and to return with more detailed drawings and cost guidance for review. Staff said the refined concepts will be used to develop final recommendations and outreach materials for a later feedback round.
