Local city fountain to undergo $500k makeover

A fountain in downtown Dayton is getting a facelift.

>>I-TEAM: Tracking Skimmers - Will new technology protect your wallet?

The fountain in Courthouse Square was built in 1975, but stopped working in 2020 during the pandemic, a spokesperson for Montgomery County said.

Current Courthouse Square Fountain Renderings
Current Courthouse Square Fountain Renderings

The county didn’t take immediate action to make repairs as there were other budgeting concerns.

The county began demolition to get a better understanding of the plumbing and electrical needs, the spokesperson said.

“This is a fairly extensive project, and we are happy we can fund it. We believe it will greatly enhance the Courthouse Square,” Montgomery County Commission President Debbie Lieberman said.

To repair the fountain alone would cost nearly $400,000, so the county decided to spend an extra $100,000 to refurbish it entirely. Some costs include granite base and benches, paver walkways, landscaping, and irrigation.

>> Local man ID’d as Beavercreek Walmart mass shooter; FBI, police searching for motive

“By keeping the same footprint, we are cutting costs. I think it will be a great addition to Courthouse Square and we will have an updated look that is both clean and inviting,” Commissioner Carolyn Rice said.

The new fountain will provide the opportunity to feature additional holiday lights.

The final design and project start date haven’t been determined, but initial demolition work has begun. County Commissioners are optimistic that the fountain will be complete by the summertime.

Proposed Courthouse Square Renderings
Proposed Courthouse Square Renderings