TOLEDO, Ohio — Harvey Savage Jr. hopes the central Toledo park named after his father can be renovated as a safer location.
"I wouldn't want to send my kid there and I felt like the area wasn't secure," he said.
The Rev. H.V. Savage Park is named after Harvey Savage Sr., who spent his life working to bring the central Toledo community together.
Savage Jr. said the park used to be a hot spot for Toledo's youth, who, like himself, have fond memories of enjoying Glass City parks.
Over the years, Savage Park, on Nebraska Avenue, has added a splash pad, basketball court and even a pool. Now the community is looking forward to adding their input on new developments.
Joe Fausnaugh, the director of parks and youth services for the city of Toledo, said there is an opportunity to apply for a $1 million grant to completely renovate the park. To be eligible for the grant, they have to know what the Toledo community wants.
"It's really about us having conversations with the community," Fausnaugh said. "Showing them what's possible and getting feedback on what they like and what they don't like."
The city hosted a public meeting Thursday to gather ideas for the community.
Fausnaugh said Engage Toledo is accepting suggestions until May.
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