Fall 2023 – Shelby Black Fork Commons Plaza

Phase 2 of the Shelby Black Fork Commons consists of hardscape improvements that include a splash pad, outdoor fireplace with pergola, upgraded amenities to the existing pavilion, as well as a steel lighted arch that crosses Main Street. Located on the west side of the Black Fork River and on the southside of Main Street the “Commons” will provide an outdoor leisure and entertainment venue for the downtown area and promote local businesses by attracting patrons. The 1.3-million-dollar project was designed by EDGE Landscape Architects and K. E. McCartney & Associates. More than a dozen private and public sponsors worked in conjunction to provide funding. Simonson Construction Co. (Ashland. Oh.) was the general contractor for the project. Although Simonson was delayed by a lengthy permit review by the Ohio Department of health, a heavy summer schedule has the project nearing completion with the ribbon cutting ceremony slated for October 25th. Previously, the unutilized site had been vacant since the flood of 2013.

This is the second step in a 3-phase project that began with streetscape improvements (also designed by EDGE and KEM) that included new cross walks, brick pavers, and tree lawns, and will conclude with an additional 15 acres of green space where the old city schools and football field used to be located. Phase 3 plans have not been finalized as the community weighs options for how the space will be utilized.