ARTICLE
Rodney Square Works is a multi-phased public-private project led by the Rodney Square Conservancy (RSC), City of Wilmington and the State of Delaware that involves an estimated $7 million dollar renovation of Wilmington’s iconic public space in the heart of the city. Originally constructed in 1921, the Square has suffered from deferred maintenance in recent years and needs a major aesthetic and infrastructure overhaul. Phase One will cost an estimated $4 million and is expected to be completed early next year. The multiple-phased publicly and privately-funded renovation project will include new masonry and paving, improved irrigation systems, upgraded lights and electrical system, lighted fountains, planters, benches and tables, trash and recycling collection bins, as well as new trees, shrubs and green areas. The new square is also being designed to accommodate a wider range of smaller community events in addition to the more traditional larger events staged at the square. Improved accessibility to the square and more community-based activities are the primary goals of the renovation project. The design team for the project includes Landscape Architects - Robinson, Anderson, Summers, Inc and Landscape Designers OLIN and the Construction Manager is EDiS. Rodney Square was one of the first examples of the City Beautiful Movement of the early 20th century, which espoused improving the social order of the day by introducing more beauty into the urban landscape. In 2011, Rodney Square, the Caesar Rodney equestrian statue, and the Nemours Building were placed on the National Register of Historic Places.