Charita Goshay: Aurora's plan for public beach proves government innovation still possible
Good for Aurora for having the imagination and vision that will result in the city transforming the former SeaWorld and Geauga Lake sites into a public beach and park.
The proposed $4.5 million project shows what can happen as a result of creative leadership, and proves that government is capable of doing imaginative and positive things.
A beach will be a huge regional tourist draw, not to mention a big boost to the community's quality of life, both crucial components if the Aurora area expects to attract and maintain residents.
When cities fail to make quality of life a priority and a major goal, no one should be surprised when they flounder.
Aurora Mayor Mary Ann Wormer Benjamin told The Record-Courier in Ravenna that the idea has been percolating since the amusement venues closed in 2007.
The city, she said, turned down a developer's proposal to repurpose the land along the lakefront as a housing development.
They were smart enough to realize that such resources don't fall out of the sky. The development also includes plans for a walking trail, boating, restaurant, pool, visitors' center and non-engine boating. User fees would apply for boating and the pool, but other amenities, such as a the beach, would be free.
"This land was too beautiful to turn into a residential development," Wormer Benjamin said. "I was committed to having public access to the lake from the Aurora side."
The plan is not expected to result in increased taxes because Aurora is using $1.3 million in American Rescue Plan Act COVID-relief funds and money from the city's general fund.
In Canton, Centennial Plaza is a popular and successful example a public and private partnership with a vision.
Too bad the people who built Centennial Plaza weren't around during the demise of Meyers Lake Amusement Park.
Just like Aurora, Canton could have transformed a tremendous resource into a public benefit.
Instead, it fell victim to personal acrimony and small-ball politics.
The development of Hall of Fame Village and the DoubleTree Hilton Hotel, the restoration of Thurman Munson Stadium, the preservation of the Saxton House, Renkert Building and the Onesto Hotel; the reconfiguration of the Bliss Tower, the Hercules Building and the George D. Harter Bank; and a resurgence in downtown entertainment venues are the kinds of sparks needed in order for Canton to stay relevant and competitive with surrounding communities, which are offering amenities and entertainment venues as fast as they can build them.
It's tremendously encouraging in a city whose narrative too often has been woulda, shoulda, coulda.
Aurora's beach project will produce dividends that go far beyond revenue. It's a creative and effective way of telling its residents that they are valued, that they're wanted, and that they're worth such an investment.
Aurora announces plans for a new venue Aurora unveils proposal for a public park at former site of SeaWorld and Geauga Lake
Charita M. Goshay is a Canton Repository staff writer and member of the editorial board. Reach her at 330-580-8313 or charita.goshay@cantonrep.com. On Twitter: @cgoshayREP.
This article originally appeared on The Repository: Charita Goshay: Aurora's plan for public beach proves government innovation still possible
