Mansfield awards $887,000 contract to demolish West Park Plaza

West Park Shopping Plaza will be torn down, ending its years of vacancy on Mansfield’s Miracle Mile. The site at 1157 Park Ave. West is slated for complete demolition by the end of May 2027. This clears the ground for future development while preserving a small number of remaining businesses for the time being.

R&D Excavating of Crestline secured the contract for nearly $887,000. The project is funded by a $1 million grant from the Ohio Department of Development. During early site preparations, workers discovered more asbestos-containing materials than anticipated. The Richland County Land Bank approved an additional change order of $59,161.92. Erie Environmental will handle the removal of that material.

The property changed hands in January. Local business owners Dan and Brenda Niss purchased the center from Namdar Realty Group. This transaction moved the asset into local ownership after a period of decline. Mayor Jodie Perry stated that the few businesses still operating there will remain open for the foreseeable future. She noted that the site has deteriorated and needs to be rebuilt.

Long-time residents recall the plaza’s earlier days. Steve Stewart, a Mansfield resident for 27 years, remembered a mix of restaurants, clothing stores, and a beauty salon. He described the variety of shops as a good mix for the community. Brett Kraft, another local resident, agreed that the structure had deteriorated and required demolition. Stewart expressed disappointment at how far the condition had fallen from its peak.

No final redevelopment plan exists for the site yet. Mayor Perry has discussed potential uses, including a public space, a park, or a community pool. She believes the property can help shift the trajectory of the Miracle Mile. She aims for the lot to draw visitors from across the community. Stewart hopes the new development will bring back a diverse selection of stores and eating options for neighborhood residents.

The demolition process is set to begin soon. The timeline targets completion by late May of next year. The city is moving forward with the construction contract after years of addressing the property's condition. The current focus is on clearing the existing structures and managing the environmental cleanup costs.