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Council discusses gateway arch and 'Smucker Alley' naming for Uptown pedestrian alley
Summary
Council members discussed installing a gateway arch in the Uptown pedestrian alley and a private owner’s suggestion to name the alley 'Smucker Alley' in memory of Ralph Smucker; council agreed to coordinate with business owners and follow naming policy before proceeding.
Council members revisited a long‑planned idea to install gateway signage in the Uptown pedestrian alley next to Lovejoy Plaza. A council member said an adjacent business owner, Mr. Dawson, proposed a gateway sign and suggested naming an alley 'Smucker Alley' in memory of Ralph Smucker, who died earlier this week.
"Mister Dawson was suggesting we call it Smucker Alley," the council member said, and council members discussed options including a single village‑installed gateway or a coordinated set of signs developed with private business owners. The proposer said the village retains an easement on at least one alley entrance and that cost considerations likely limit the project to installing one gateway now with potential additional signage later.
Council members emphasized following the village’s established naming policy and coordinating with affected property owners so signs are consistent in style. One council member suggested meeting with business owners and returning with a comprehensive plan that could include matching signage, archway design, and placement at the north or main entrance. The council did not take a final naming action at the meeting but directed staff and the proposer to continue outreach and return with a recommendation.
