Saturday, June 6, in downtown Hartville became two separate events instead of one due to rain that arrived around 12:30 p.m. and sunshine that returned around 1:45 p.m. That worked out well, as the day was intended to culminate in a dedication ceremony for the newly built Heritage Gateway at 2 p.m.
This vibrant new public space features a steel pavilion with an iconic piece of public art at its heart and beautifully arranged engraved pavers that show the support of hundreds of community members. Those who purchased commemorative bricks were encouraged to locate their pavers and take photos.
Lake Township Chamber of Commerce President Chip Weisel welcomed attendees to the dedication and spoke about the significance of the project.
Weisel said the new landmark celebrates Hartville's past, enriches its present and welcomes its future.
"This project began with a vision: to create a meaningful landmark that tells the story of our community while strengthening the connection along the West Maple corridor from Historic Downtown Hartville to Hartville Hardware, Kitchen, MarketPlace and Flea Market," Weisel said. "The Heritage Gateway stands as the first completed phase of that vision and serves as a symbol of community pride and identity. A project like this is only possible through collaboration, generosity and shared commitment."
Weisel thanked Bud and Bonnie Workman for donating the property on which the landmark sits. He also expressed gratitude to the Hartville Area Community Charitable Trust and Visit Canton for their financial support and recognition of the project's importance to Hartville's tourism and community development.
He also thanked the Village of Hartville for its ongoing support and partnership, Starkey & Runkle for legal guidance, Rothschild Doyno Collaborative for recommending the Gateway Marker concept, Each + Every for creating the brand identity, Tanya McInerney for landscape design, Jonathan Paul Fleming for architectural design and construction assistance, and Dan the Dronie for documenting the project through aerial photography.
A special recognition was given to Project Manager Michelle Cutler.
"Michelle's tireless dedication, attention to detail, and ability to bring together people, organizations and resources kept this project moving forward from concept to completion," Weisel said. "Her leadership has been instrumental in making today possible."
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Heritage Gateway dedicated in Hartville