Batavia officials consider downtown plaza, public restroom plans

Batavia aldermen expressed support for a design for a new public plaza and self-cleaning restroom on North River Street as part of its plans to transform the former Tin Shop site.

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During a recent committee meeting, Batavia officials signaled their support for a design concept in a new public plaza and restroom project on North River Street downtown.

The early design calls for brick paving, local art, and a cozy, year-round feel that aligns with the existing aesthetic of the downtown area.

The plaza would take shape at the site of the soon-to-be-demolished Tin Shop building. Along with seating and native plantings, the space would also feature a modular, self-cleaning public restroom unit.

A few highlights:

  • Design: The preferred design includes brick, wood, and metal elements to match River Street’s current look, plus strategic lighting, bike racks, and a central shade tree.

  • Restroom: The Urben Blu bathroom is a self-cleaning, prebuilt unit with remote alerts for maintenance, automatic locks, and features like bottle fillers and safety notifications.

  • Decor: One alderman suggested incorporating historical touches, such as signage salvaged from the Tin Shop if possible.

The Committee of the Whole suggested moving forward with exploring the preferred concept.

View the meeting presentation and design visuals.

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