Riverfront renovation: universal accessibility a priority for historic park design

Community feedback inspires multi-level update

Riverside Park dates back to 1915, when the land was gifted to Perrysburg, Ohio. It is one of the city’s oldest public open spaces. Situated along Front Street, the existing park had a dramatic 40-foot elevation change, which restricted access to the lower level.

Prompted by community feedback, improvements focused on providing an accessible route to the Maumee River waterfront via a universally accessible walkway and series of ramps. The park’s lower level was also enhanced with a new hardscape plaza connecting to the adjacent multi-use path. The plaza includes casual seating and plantings that draw inspiration from the natural elements and historic character of northwest Ohio canals.

The renovated park included an expanded upper plaza, as well, where visitors can take advantage of the panoramic sunset views over the Maumee River.