Vermilion’s Rotary Club is preparing to give one of the city’s most historic green spaces a new life and a nod to the city’s railroad past as part of a sweeping revitalization of Rotary Park. The $750,000 to $1 million project aims to transform the underused riverfront area into a welcoming, low-maintenance community space by the club’s 100th anniversary in 2028.
At the October 21 meeting of the Vermilion Parks and Recreation Board, Mark Musial outlined the Rotary Club’s vision to restore the park, which the club first refurbished about two decades ago. He said the idea began as members noticed the park showing its age and wanted to create something lasting for the next generation.
“It will be the 100th year of Rotary in Vermilion in 2028, and it would be nice if we had something we could give back to the city in conjunction with that,” Musial said.
Historic Roots, New Vision
The redesign, developed with Environmental Design Group, will preserve Rotary Park’s historic character while adding new features inspired by Vermilion’s railroad heritage. The plans include a rail-station-style shelter with swing benches, picnic tables, and a small pavilion for community use.
Other upgrades call for slow-growth grass, simplified flower beds, and riverfront improvements, including new metal pilings and a cement pad where visitors can sit or fish. To the north of the park, a stone façade will echo the look of the railroad trestle that spans the river, creating a unified visual theme.
Musial said the redesign is intended to make the park more inviting and functional. “There really wasn’t much space to sit, and parking was limited,” he said. The new layout adds six parking spaces, including one handicap-accessible spot, and reconfigures sidewalks and hydrant access for better flow.
A Community-Funded Project
The project’s estimated cost is between $750,000 and $1 million, but Musial said the Rotary Club aims to complete the work at no cost to the city. Funding will come from private donations, matching grants, and community partnerships.
He said a significant early donation came from a client who plans to sell land in Westlake and contribute the proceeds toward the project. Additional funding may come from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Shores & Islands Ohio, and local foundations.
“We already have a strong start, and we’re confident we can raise the rest,” Musial said, noting that the club will also pursue grant opportunities once final approvals are in place
City Collaboration and Feedback
The proposal drew praise and logistical questions from city officials. Parks Operations Manager Marc Weisenberger, Service Director Tony Valerius, and Mayor Jim Forthofer all commended the club for its initiative.
Mayor Forthofer acknowledged the project’s promise but noted that parking remains a long-standing challenge at the site because of the narrow right-of-way near the river. “It’s a big issue, but if they can find a solution within that space, it would be a huge benefit,” he said.
Valerius confirmed that the waterline through the park will remain in place and will connect to city water. Board members supported the design’s focus on accessibility and low maintenance. Liz Elden called the plan “beautiful,” and Karen Viterna described the railroad theme as “brilliant,” saying it ties together the park’s history and location.
Sustainable and Smart Design
Musial and Weisenberger said the plan includes solar power, LED lighting, and potential upgrades for outdoor events. The Rotary Club also hopes to add a photo spot overlooking the river, giving visitors a place to capture the view and share memories of the park.
The existing water tower will remain as a historic centerpiece, preserving a familiar landmark while modernizing the surrounding grounds. Musial added that he would like to see the park officially designated as Rotary Park, noting that the city has never formally adopted that name.
Next Steps
The Rotary Club will now seek feedback from city departments and the Port Authority, followed by environmental and engineering reviews. Once final approvals are granted, the group plans to begin fundraising in earnest and apply for matching grants.
If all goes as planned, construction would begin within the next two years, with completion before Rotary’s 100th anniversary in 2028.
“This is about giving something back,” Musial said. “It’s a way to celebrate what Rotary stands for: service, community, and building something that lasts.”
At a Glance: Rotary Park Redevelopment
- Project lead: Vermilion Rotary Club
- Design firm: Environmental Design Group
- Estimated cost: $750,000 to $1 million
- Funding: Grants and private donations; no city cost anticipated
- Timeline: Completion targeted for 2028
- Key features:
- Train-station shelter and picnic area
- Riverfront seating and viewing area
- Improved parking and accessibility
- Solar lighting and low-maintenance landscaping
- Preservation of historic water tower
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