The Rodney Square renovation project — officially called Rodney Square Works, a public-private project led by the two-year-old Rodney Square Conservancy (RSC), the City of Wilmington, and the State of Delaware —had its ceremonial groundbreaking on the morning of Monday, Sept. 9.

Since the announcement of the project in March, reactions have been varied, especially in regard to residents who have continued to advocate for a return of the Rodney Square transit hub.

The controversy was acknowledged by City Council President Hanifa Shabazz, who spoke at the groundbreaking, saying that efforts were made to address the voices of residents who have taken issue with the $6 to $8 million project.

The new design, which you can view interactively here, will be greener, more family friendly, and more accessible, with restored fountains, fixed and flexible seating and a new splash fountain. Shabazz noted that there would be activities for young people, educational programs, and a partnership with Wilmington Library, which sits just across 10th Street from the park.

The park is also across the street from the Community Education Building, home of Kuumba Academy and Great Oaks Charter School, which will open its newly renovated playground on Sept. 10.

Check out a rendering of the space on its future site:

-30-