Sharonville Depot Square + Streetscape

Project Narrative

The revitalization of Downtown Sharonville, an area affectionately called The Loop by locals, has taken shape through the bold and contemporary transformation of Creek Road and Depot Square, turning what was once a typical streetscape into a vibrant community centerpiece. This reimagined streetscape has redefined the city’s physical environment and reinvigorated civic life, offering a welcoming, flexible destination where people of all ages can gather, celebrate, and connect.

The landscape architects led a public open house to engage the community and gave Sharonville residents a chance to share feedback and shape the vision for their downtown. This input ensured the revitalized downtown responded to community needs, strengthened local pride, resulting in a vibrant, inclusive, and well-used public streetscape.

Creek Road was transformed into a flexible-use promenade. With removable bollards in place, the road becomes a car-free zone ideal for festivals, markets, and large gatherings, including the return of Sharonville’s beloved 4th on The Loop celebration. The design allows Creek Road to serve as a key venue for public events with the capacity to adapt to the community’s evolving needs.

Named for the historic train depot on its west edge, Depot Square was designed specifically to incorporate the City's history and branding, and to provide a flexible public plaza and gathering area for community events. Featuring curvilinear concrete bands of colorful paving- a nod to the City's brand, creates a unique sense of place while beautiful trees and colorful landscape softens the urban setting.

The lovingly preserved train depot brings historic charm to the contemporary setting. The landscape architects ensured the history of the square would not been lost, thus, commemorative medallions from the old square have been thoughtfully integrated to honor Sharonville’s past while embracing its future.

The heart of the plaza is defined by a multi-functional amphitheater wall that acts as a gathering place, performance space, and protective buffer from adjacent traffic. This sculptural element transitions from raised planters to tiered seating that invites informal play and rest. A digital announcement board faces the street, keeping the community informed of upcoming events.

The splash pad brings joyful summer energy, with its curved bands of colored concrete that mirror the streetscape’s design and create playful paths. When not in use, it converts to a plaza for year-round programming, including movie nights, local festivals, magic shows, and as a cherished stage for the city’s annual tree lighting ceremony.

The Loop’s first phase of revitalization has had a deep and lasting impact, turning underutilized space into an inclusive and active destination. Depot Square stands as a testament to Sharonville’s investment in community, placemaking, and public life; a project that has earned Sharonville recognition in 2024's Ohio Magazine’s Best Hometowns.

                                           

Project Details -

Submission Category

Landscape Architecture & Community Planning – Implementation

Date of Completion

January, 2024