Mason City declares Willow Creek Riverwalk and Bill Schickel Plaza as a city park

MASON CITY – A new area in downtown Mason City recently completed and offering folks a pleasant space to relax just outside Southbridge Mall – Willow Creek Riverwalk and Bill Schickel Plaza – is now officially a city park.

At a November meeting, staff in city hall recommended that the City Council approve a resolution naming and dedicating the Willow Creek Riverwalk and Bill Schickel Plaza as a city park under the purview of the Mason City Park Board. The Willow Creek Riverwalk, located directly south of the Southbridge Mall parking lot, is a public space that blends art and nature into a scenic walkway along Willow Creek. It features a playground, two levels of walking trail, and public art installations, most notably the Harmony in Light sculpture, serving as the focal point of Bill Schickel Plaza, along with other rotating sculptures through the River City Sculptures on Parade program.

By formally naming and dedicating the Willow Creek Riverwalk and Bill Schickel Plaza as a city park, city hall recognizes its role as a civic gathering space, cultural asset, and trail hub for both residents and visitors. This designation will also formalize long-term stewardship and maintenance responsibilities, placing the Willow Creek Riverwalk and Bill Schickel Plaza under the purview of the Park Board.

There is no impact to the City budget as a result of this action.

Staff requested that the City Council adopt a resolution naming and dedicating the Willow Creek Riverwalk and Bill Schickel as a City park under the purview of the Park Board. Mayor Pro tem Paul Adams introduced the item and requested the Resolution be changed to read as follows: “Resolution naming the Riverwalk as ‘Willow-Greek River City Riverwalk’ and ‘Bill Schickel Plaza’ and designating it as a City park under the purview of the Mason City Park and Recreation Board.”

The council passed the resolution.

The area will soon be brimming with more fresh souls as the 88-room Home2 Suites by Hilton extended stay hotel is under construction and promises to add to the fervor.  The park adds to the River City Renaissance Project.