Plans to revitalize Rotary Century Park moved into a new phase Thursday night as the Vermilion Port Authority reviewed the project’s riverfront impacts while also addressing a full slate of financial and operational business.
The proposed improvements were presented to the Port Authority because of its jurisdiction over river frontage, shoreline stability and navigation along the Vermilion River. While the project has been discussed previously at other city meetings, Thursday’s presentation focused specifically on how the redevelopment interacts with the river itself.
Riverfront oversight and long-term planning
Rotary Club representative Mark Musial told board members the park, located beneath the water tower along the river, has experienced years of erosion, overgrowth and declining use. The redesign aims to stabilize the riverbank while creating a more inviting public space that reconnects people with the waterfront.
Plans include reinforced shoreline features designed to withstand river flow, ice and seasonal flooding, along with seating areas closer to the water and improved pedestrian access. Musial said engineering firms with waterfront experience are assisting with the design and that approvals will be required from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Port Authority members asked questions about water flow, ice damage and long-term durability, noting the strong currents and debris movement that can occur in this section of the river. Board members emphasized that the authority’s role is to review riverfront projects carefully before permanent shoreline changes are made.
Musial said the project is being timed to coincide with the Vermilion Rotary Club’s 100th anniversary in 2028. Estimated costs range from $750,000 to $1 million, with roughly 80 percent of the funding expected to come from the sale of donated land. He said the project would not require funding from the city, the Port Authority or taxpayers, and that an endowment is planned to support long-term maintenance.
Event planning, finances and dock improvements
In other business, the Port Authority heard a proposal from the Vermilion Chamber of Commerce for a potential Christmas-in-July fundraiser called “Santa Splashdown,” described as a family-friendly, non-motorized river race featuring decorated watercraft such as kayaks and paddleboards. Chamber representatives discussed preliminary ideas for the event, including safety planning, parking needs and coordination with existing river traffic. Port Authority members raised questions about logistics and emphasized the need for continued coordination as details are developed, and the board indicated the Chamber could continue planning and working with Port staff as the proposal moves forward.
Port Operations Manager Arron Bias reported that financial activity has remained steady during the off-season. The board approved an additional $3,500 in paving costs at the South Street launch ramp after construction uncovered an insufficient base, requiring extra excavation. A corresponding budget adjustment was also approved.
The Port Authority acknowledged donations received in memory of Richard Bulan and discussed plans to apply for a Destination Development Grant in coordination with the City of Vermilion. The board authorized Bias to apply for funding to replace and expand docks at Water Works Marina and approved matching funds if the grant is awarded.
Bias also noted that seasonal hiring for the 2026 boating season will begin in the coming months, with some staffing changes anticipated.
With no further business, the board adjourned. The next Vermilion Port Authority meeting is scheduled for March 12.
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