10-Year Anniversary of Amtrak Station Rededication

On September 22, 2006, partners and leaders commemorated the 1996 spectacular renovation and reopening of the Central Union Plaza. (See agenda.) Speakers were:

*US Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur,
*Councilman George Sarantou, representing the Mayor and the City of Toledo
*James Hartung, President, Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority
*David Kuhn, District Manager of Amtrak Stations *David Dysard, Vice President of Transportation, TMACOG *Mark Carlson, All Aboard Ohio (formerly OARP), Master of Ceremonies for the event.

The September 22nd event included special recognition of Duket Porter Associates (formerly Seyfang Duket Porter), project architects for the award-winning restoration of the 1950's classic building. They were represented by Steven Shrake and Toby Feltus. The local All Aboard Ohio/OARP chapter leadership (William Gill and Beth McCray) led the way in organizing the ceremony and station open house. (For event photos, see below.)

The building's rebirth ten years ago came out of strong leadership and collaboration. Representative Kaptur's vision and determination saved the Amtrak station building (now Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza). The Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority stepped forward to take ownership of the building. The City of Toledo took responsibility for the grounds and landscaping, and developed the park gracing the upper level entrance. TMACOG participated in redesigning the third and fourth floors and became the first major tenant in addition to Amtrak. TMACOG developed a commemorative booklet, based on one prepared for the 1996 rededication. We thank all the organizations and community members who participated in this special celebration of a great station building, whose future is just beginning!

EVENT PHOTO GALLERY