The new plaza will offer a central location for public fairs and festivals, entertainment and events, or just enjoying the views. It creates a welcoming spot to gather in the already popular downtown St. Charles area.
Inviting Plaza Features:
- A paved, pedestrian walkway connects the plaza space to the existing plaza on the east side of 1st Street. The northern portion of 1st Street—from Main Street to the entrance of the parking garage—has been permanently closed to vehicles to accommodate the walkway.
- A trellis surrounds the new paved plaza. It will be topped with solar panels that will help power the plaza and offer shade as well.
- Benches and shaded seating areas offer a place to sit and take in the views.
- A riverwalk along the Fox River connects to the Main Street sidewalk, encouraging leisure downtown exploration.
- Outdoor tables invite visitors to grab a bite from one of the restaurants and cafes surrounding the plaza.
A Public-Private Partnership Success
The new 1st Street Plaza is the result of a public-private partnership formed by the City of St. Charles and the St. Charles Initiative—a group of volunteers who spearheaded a private fundraising effort. To date, $1.5M of the $6.4M total project cost has been raised for the project with grants and private donations through the St. Charles Initiative. The fund is administered by the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley. Donations are still being accepted. For more information about how to donate, visit the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley website.
“I am so excited to be celebrating the opening of the new 1st Street Plaza,” said Mayor Lora Vitek. “While we will continue working to put the final touches on the plaza, we wanted to get it open as soon as possible to allow everyone to begin enjoying the space. My sincerest thanks to the efforts of the St. Charles Initiative and the many donors who so generously contributed to this project. Without the dedication of these individuals and their commitment to St. Charles, this project would not be possible. I also would like to thank our Public Works Department for guiding the construction of this plaza. This space truly is an asset to the community that the people of St. Charles and all who visit here, will enjoy for years to come.”
Project Information
- The City broke ground on the project September 2021
- Total Project Cost: $6.4M
- 4.9M from the City of St Charles
- $1.5M through grants and fundraising
- Design: Serena Sturm Architects
- Construction Management: Martam Construction
