Council leans toward larger plaza design for Liberty Plaza relocation near Rose Garden

The council reviewed conceptual designs for relocating Liberty Plaza to a vacant lot near the Rose Garden on Valley View Lane and indicated a general preference for the larger, more paved Concept B with refinements.

Parks & Recreation Director Robert Diaz presented two options: Concept A (smaller footprint, less paving, preserves more trees and a 35‑foot flagpole) and Concept B (larger paved walkway and a circular movement path that more closely mirrors the current Liberty Plaza configuration). Diaz said both options preserve existing trees where possible, include accessible pathways and are planned to be implemented in phases.

Council members discussed flag placement visible from Valley View, moving existing pedestals and commemorative bricks, signage, night lighting for flags, potential brick fundraising campaigns, and ways to minimize wear on memorial bricks (creating designated brick areas). Council also asked staff to research brick longevity and options for cataloging current brick donors to ensure families can find relocated memorials.

Several councilmembers noted a desire for the plaza to support Veterans Day gatherings and suggested limited built features that would allow for occasional larger assemblies without creating an amphitheater. Staff said they will return with refined designs, cost estimates and a phased implementation plan; Diaz indicated a goal to complete base elements over the next two years if funding allows.

The council did not make a binding funding commitment at the meeting but directed staff to pursue detailed design and pricing and to explore grant or donor options.