Mayor Matt Miller Highlights Freedom Monument, Downtown Mural, New Park, Road Work and Economic Growth in Ashland Update
ASHLAND, Ohio — Ashland Mayor Matt Miller provided a wide-ranging update this week, highlighting several major projects taking shape across the city, including the upcoming dedication of the new Freedom Monument, a downtown mural project, plans for Lincoln Park, street resurfacing, economic development and improvements to city emergency preparedness.
One of the biggest events on the horizon is the dedication of Ashland’s new Freedom Monument, set for July 4 at 2 p.m. in the Pump House District. Miller said contractors have been working to prepare the foundation for the massive 25-ton granite monument, which will serve as the centerpiece of the new Freedom Park.
“This monument will be unlike anything else we have in Ashland County,” Miller said, noting that some have compared its appearance to something one might see in Washington, D.C.
The city is seeking at least 250 veterans and active-duty service members to participate in the dedication ceremony. Miller said the city is already more than halfway to that goal, but more veterans are encouraged to register through the City of Ashland website or by calling the mayor’s office.
Veterans do not have to live in Ashland County to participate. The city is collecting names, military branch information, email addresses and phone numbers so participants can receive details about parking, arrival times and the ceremony.
Miller also addressed questions about disabled veterans who may use wheelchairs or scooters. While the official marching formation may not be able to accommodate wheelchairs or scooters, he said a special area will be reserved up front near the Freedom Monument so those veterans can still be honored as part of the historic event.
Downtown Ashland will also soon see a major new piece of public art. Miller said a mural project is expected to begin soon on the mint green building at the intersection of Union Street and Third Street, near the eastern edge of the historic downtown.
The mural will read “Explore Ashland County, Ohio” and feature a nighttime scene of downtown Ashland, including local landmarks such as the theater and the arch over Main Street. The project is expected to take about five to 10 days, weather permitting.
The mural is being completed by artist Troy Freeman, who Miller said has completed murals across the country and has ties to Ashland. The project is being made possible through a partnership between the City of Ashland and the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Ashland 2026 class, which selected the mural as its community project.
Miller said the mural is intended to become a photo spot for visitors and a source of community pride for residents.
Another major project moving forward is Lincoln Park, which will be located where Lincoln Elementary School once stood on the north side of the city. Miller said the neighborhood has been without a nearby park since the former school playground equipment was removed.
The new park is expected to include playground equipment, a dog park supported by the Ashland Rotary Club, a pavilion, benches, picnic tables and potentially a basketball court through a donor.
Miller said the park will provide a much-needed recreational space for families and residents on the north side of Ashland.
The mayor also gave an update on the city’s paving work. He said city crews have started resurfacing 34 alleys across Ashland, calling it a record number for one year. Later this summer, Sarver Paving is expected to begin the city’s summer pavement program, which could include resurfacing 85 streets.
Miller credited the city’s street levy for helping fund nearly $2 million each year toward pavement improvements, saying Ashland has made steady progress over the past seven years.
Miller also discussed state capital budget funding secured for local projects through State Representative Melanie Miller. He said one project includes approximately $250,000 for the Ashland Theatre to help restore the exterior north wall of the historic building. He also noted funding for the Ashland County Park District and a bike and pedestrian trail project in Loudonville.
The mayor also promoted this weekend’s Ashland County Emergency Shelter Services fundraiser at Foundation Plaza, where he is expected to serve as emcee. The event includes local participants raising money, with some taking pies in the face as part of the fundraiser.
Miller said ACCESS plays an important role in helping respond to homelessness in Ashland County and depends on local support.
The city is also hiring for several positions. Miller said one of the critical openings is for a new street department supervisor, describing it as a position requiring both technical skills and strong leadership.
On the economic development front, Miller said the city recently approved selling five acres of land in the industrial park on Ford Drive to The Dorm Dudes, a fast-growing company owned by Ashland University graduate Zack Balo.
Miller said the business began while Balo was a student at AU, selling sports memorabilia through online auctions. The company has since grown rapidly and reportedly generated $16 million in revenue last year. Miller said The Dorm Dudes currently employs about 25 people, including several Ashland University graduates and interns.
The company sells items such as signed jerseys, shoes, helmets, golf equipment and other sports-related products.
Miller also provided an update on the former Arthur Street School property. He said the city and the Ashland County Land Bank have agreed to work together to settle debt tied to the building, with the goal of eventually taking ownership, demolishing the structure and preparing the property for future housing.
According to Miller, the city and land bank agreed to split the cost of an $85,000 settlement. Once the building is removed, the site could potentially be used for apartments, condominiums or single-family homes.
Finally, Miller discussed the city’s decision to purchase a new generator for City Hall. He said recent storms revealed that the existing generator only powered a few outlets and was not capable of running the entire building.
Miller said the city agreed to purchase a generator, estimated at about $54,000, that will power the full building. He said City Hall must remain operational during emergencies because it could serve as a command post during a crisis or natural disaster.
From parks and public art to streets, housing, business growth and emergency preparedness, Miller said the city continues to move forward on projects designed to improve Ashland for residents and visitors alike.
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