River Street Plaza Plans Approved: See What's Planned For The Downtown Batavia Project

BATAVIA, IL — Changes are coming to River Street, as the Batavia City Council approved plans to bring a plaza brimming with features to the popular downtown thoroughfare.

Designed to serve as a public gathering space and enhance downtown activities, the plaza will be constructed on the site of the former Tin Shop, 106 N. River St.

The Batavia City Council approved Monday a contract with Landmark Contractors, Inc., for plaza site work. The cost is not to exceed $618,000, including contingency. The project will be paid for through Batavia Tax Increment Financing District 3, with the combined costs for the plaza and restroom improvements remaining within the city's approved budget, officials said.

One feature that might excite residents most is a prefabricated, self-cleaning public restroom. The city already purchased the unit, which is under construction at the manufacturer's facility. It will be installed on a concrete pad and will also feature an exterior bottle filler and water fountain.

"River Street Plaza is an investment in downtown vitality — giving our Farmers Market the public restrooms the community has long asked for, while creating a space that encourages visitors to stay longer, explore more, and spend locally," Batavia MainStreet Executive Director Beth Walker said in a statement.

Plans for Batavia's River Street Plaza include accessible paving, landscaping, lighting and furnishings, including plenty of seating, city officials said. Features will include planter benches, bike racks, a bike repair station, public art elements and native pollinator plantings. The city is also planning to install a limestone feature that will function as a retaining wall to define the space and protect adjacent properties.

The plaza is designed to mold with neighboring properties as they develop over time, city officials said. Decorative screening elements, including a punched metal fence and a trellis with climbing plants, will soften the plaza's edges.

"The River Street Plaza is about creating a space where people want to spend time — whether they’re attending an event, visiting the Farmers Market, or simply enjoying downtown Batavia," City Administrator Laura Newman said in a statement. "This project reflects our commitment to investing in public spaces that improve quality of life, support local businesses, and help our downtown continue to thrive."

Construction will take place in phases, beginning with site preparation, then the bathroom installation, and followed by the completion of features. The city is hoping to open the plaza "as early as possible this year."