Sandusky hires SmithGroup to design Lions Park shoreline restoration

Sandusky commissioners approved a design contract July 27 for a project to restore and stabilize nearly 950 feet of Sandusky Bay shoreline at Lions Park.

The city hired SmithGroup, which also led the project's earlier conceptual design. The contract is capped at $250,000. A Great Lakes Restoration Initiative grant reimburses $225,000, and the city's Capital Projects Fund covers the other $25,000.

What would be built

The plan calls for a half-acre beach, 1.5 acres of wetlands near the shore, 5 acres of offshore wetland habitat and a new public overlook. The work responds to erosion from years of high water and waves.

SmithGroup will handle data collection, community engagement, schematic design, permitting and final construction documents. Construction is expected to begin in 2028.

Paying for it

The full project is estimated at $2.75 million. Funding so far includes $750,000 from an Ohio Lake Erie Commission grant and $200,000 from the state capital budget. The city credited state Rep. D.J. Swearingen and state Sen. Theresa Gavarone with helping secure state money.

Lions Park has gained a splash pad, playground, walking loop, pavilions and public art over more than a decade.

Source: City of Sandusky announcement