In a recent government meeting, city officials discussed the ambitious waterfront parks plan, which is being developed in collaboration with OHM Advisors. The initiative is backed by a $35,000 grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), which the city is required to match, signaling a commitment to enhancing local recreational spaces.

The plan aims to revitalize several key areas, including the Showboat property, Lakefront Park, and a public beach behind the water plant. City officials emphasized the importance of community engagement throughout the planning process, which will include a public survey to gather feedback from residents and stakeholders.

Arthur Schmidt, principal planner at OHM Advisors, outlined the project's goals, which focus on creating a year-round waterfront experience. The plan will assess existing park amenities and explore ways to improve connectivity between the parks and downtown, as well as integrate with the regional trail network.

The meeting highlighted the need for actionable strategies that can be implemented in the short, medium, and long term. Schmidt noted that the recommendations will be designed to align with other city initiatives, ensuring that the waterfront parks plan is not merely theoretical but leads to tangible improvements in the community.

As the project progresses, city officials will reconvene with stakeholders to refine the plans and discuss implementation costs, aiming to create a vibrant waterfront that enhances the quality of life for residents.