Ripon

Enhancing a community hub

The Village Green had been a central gathering place in downtown Ripon for 30 years. However, many of the large events the community has grown to love had expanded beyond what could be accommodated. What’s more, the community was requesting additional activities that could not be accommodated in the tree-lined existing space. Taking advantage of a one-time opportunity to acquire an adjacent parcel and expand the Village Green created an opportunity to add permanent amenities to the park, such as a shaded pergola and accessible seating areas, while also attracting and accommodating larger regional audiences for the summer concert series and other long-standing events.

Seizing an opportunity

Hosting a year-round array of events—including a skating rink, yoga classes, outdoor movies, and a summer concert series that draws more than 10,000 attendees annually—the space was so widely used that its size was unable to accommodate demand. When an adjacent parcel became available, the community planned an expansion, incorporating features like upgraded electrical service, a new pergola, festive lighting, and accessible seating. This expansion not only improved the ambiance but also provides essential seating for visitors, college students, and workers looking for a place to relax and enjoy their surroundings.

The Village Green’s growth has significantly enriched community life, allowing for a wider variety of events and activities. Its enhanced facilities make it an ideal venue for gatherings and celebrations, contributing to the overall appeal of downtown Ripon. The park now serves as a welcoming space where residents and visitors alike can come together to connect and engage in local culture.

A place for connection and celebration

Unveiled in 2024, the upgraded Village Green encourages a more diverse lineup of performers and accommodates private events such as weddings and college gatherings. This increased usage has positively impacted the downtown area, leading to a noticeable rise in foot traffic for local shops. Many businesses have reported increased patronage since the project’s completion, underscoring the Village Green’s pivotal role in boosting community engagement and supporting the local economy. As the park hosts a range of annual events—from summer concerts to holiday festivities—it continues to foster connection and gathering. The revitalized space has become a hub for local activities, inspiring residents to take pride in their downtown area and actively participate in its growth. This renewed engagement is vital for the ongoing vitality of Ripon’s downtown area.

The expansion of the Village Green was made possible with a $50,000 Vibrant Spaces Grant from WEDC, along with more than $160,000 invested by Ripon Main Street for property acquisition and demolition. Generous community contributions have also played a crucial role in this development. The Lyke family donated funds to build a bandstand, while the Rotary Club of Ripon has supported landscaping projects since 2013. Recently, Pericles Financial Services contributed $25,000 for the construction of a new pergola, which is complemented by an accessible gathering area, ensuring that the park is welcoming to all.

In addition to these efforts, a $200,000 fundraising campaign is underway to further enhance the Village Green with benches, tables, and lighting. Community members can support this initiative by sponsoring items or purchasing gift bricks for installation. The collective commitment to revitalizing the Village Green has cemented that status of Ripon’s downtown as an appealing destination.