Toledo, Ohio — The Toledo Mud Hens are set to embark on a transformative project aimed at enhancing the downtown experience for both residents and visitors. The Toledo City Council approved a $50,000 grant on Tuesday to help fund a $3 million initiative that will convert North St. Clair Street into a vibrant “festival street.” The plan includes replacing pavement with brick, adding decorative lights, and creating a new gateway to the area.
Council member Vanice Williams expressed strong support for the project, emphasizing the significance of improving the walkability of the neighborhood. “It’s absolutely great to have something added to that neighborhood,” Williams said. “Walkability is something that the neighborhood has cried for, especially with so much traffic in that area. It slows down traffic and helps pedestrians walk around the game to restaurants without having to worry about car traffic.”
The project is designed to prioritize pedestrians, with a focus on creating a more accessible and inviting environment for those visiting the area for Mud Hens games or other events. As part of the plan, Fleetwood’s Tap Room will also see an expansion. The patio will be transformed, with a new staircase, a roof, and an outdoor bar adding to the space’s appeal.
The initiative is part of a broader effort by the Mud Hens organization to revitalize the area around Fifth Third Field and draw more people into downtown Toledo. The project is expected to open up the center of the stadium, making it easier for fans to move seamlessly between the ballpark and the nearby Hensville district.
Toledo resident Harry Kellett expressed his enthusiasm for the improvements. “Any improvement they make to this city is fine with me,” he said. “The taxpayer money should go to something good. I love it. They’re really making the city look good.”
Pat Snow, a visitor from Birmingham, Alabama, echoed similar sentiments. He highlighted the broader impact that pedestrian-friendly spaces can have on the community. “I think any time you can get people walking, enjoying downtown without cars, it’s a boost for the economy,” Snow said. “People need to be out with people, because we have enough digital things in our lives. Meeting people, getting out with people, is what we all need.”
Though the Mud Hens have not provided specific dates for the completion of the project, they hope to begin construction on the gateway later this year. The revitalization of North St. Clair Street promises to be a significant step toward creating a more vibrant, pedestrian-friendly downtown that enhances both the game-day experience and the overall atmosphere of Toledo’s growing entertainment district.