OTTAWA, OH, (WLIO) - A nonprofit organization is looking at building community pride in Ottawa, by transforming empty spaces into a gathering place. Go Ottawa is looking at a placemaking project in an alley between RMS of Ohio and Always Blessed on Main Street. The project would take a space that isn’t currently being used and turn it into an area where people can relax and visit, complete with seating, plant life, and space to showcase local artists. Go Ottawa says this is a good start to their overall strategic plan for the village.
“This is kind of an easy thing to grab and make it something that says we are here and now. You know, a viable nonprofit that is going to start doing the work, and look we have already started doing something,” says Jaqueline Langhals, Go Ottawa Executive Director. “I think from here, hopefully, this brings attention to Go Ottawa and the other work we are going to do. Some of the bigger projects we want to take on.”
Some of those projects include creating trails and connecting public spaces. The alley project will start with some decorations this fall, but next spring Go Ottawa will begin to transform the space. But to do any of these, they are looking for some help.
“So, I think looking for assistance, whether that is financial contributions to make us financially stable. But also, manpower,” adds Langhals. “So, we have a lot of projects before us that will take design, or take the literal building of stuff with hands and tools. So, I think we are looking for participation and involvement of all kinds.”
For more information about how to get involved log on to www.go-ottawa.com.
