PERRYSBURG, Ohio —
Perrysburg is going to see some changes in its historic downtown after the city announced they are moving forward with the Downtown Revitalization Project.
The project will revamp the area on Louisiana Avenue between Front Street and Third Street. The plan the city released hopes to improve accessibility through upgrades to sidewalks and crosswalks, along with adding ramps to the area.
"We want to be a welcoming community and I think that better access for those with disabilities is part of it," Perrysburg Mayor Tom Mackin said.
Mackin said some of the upgrades are necessary, as the city has not done revitalizations to the area in 23 years. Along with these, more public spaces for events like the farmers market and Winterfest are part of the plan. The city wants to add more landscaping and art installations to the area as well.
"I think the end result, everyone will be happy with the look," Perrysburg resident Kristy Swonger said.
Heide Allan, owner of Transcend by Heide, said she is concerned about the construction the project will bring, but also knows the project will bring positive change to the downtown area.
"It's absolutely for the community," Allan said. "It's for families to hang out and for safety."
The plans still have to be finalized, but the current timeline projects construction will begin in March of 2025 and finish by the fall of next year.
Perrysburg Farmers Market, something Mackin called a core part of the city, will have to be relocated as construction takes place.
Christine Best, the executive director of Visit Perrysburg, said they are hoping to find different places, like the Entertainment District to host the market while changes are taking place.
The city is hoping for the project to be a community effort and is asking residents and business owners to join their open house to discuss the plans.
The open house will take place at the Schaller Memorial Building, on Jan. 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. The city's website has more information about the plans.
MORE FROM WTOL 11: