Bicentennial Park — Attraction in Columbus

SEVEN WORDS: Multi-Purpose Urban Entertainment Space / Lacks Some Amenities. . Bicentennial Park, a centrally-located green space in downtown Columbus, is a step up from many metropolitan green spaces, with a full-service outdoor audio-video stage, plenty of shaded lawn, and a pair of fountains for hot days and a pleasant view, permanent mens and womens restrooms, and access to surrounding restaurants. . However; those surrounding restaurants are a big part of what keeps Bicentennial Park at the "almost there" category of great Urban Space. . There are too few choices, and those choices feel bourgeoisie, where the city's pseudo-elite watch impoverished children running through ornate fountain structures, often with a bit of disdain. . It's highly off-putting to watch this tiny glimpse into Columbus' greater challenges with social and economic diversity. . Additionally, the one bright spot of a great restroom spot is tarnished by the simple fact there is only one. It overflows instantly at the smallest events and the summer's list of festivals are completely downgraded by the simple presence of rotten and odorous Port-a-Potties and a mobile restroom trailer that reeks of Uric Acid. Simply adding a second full-scale restroom would alleviate most of this oroblem. . Still, Bicentennial has come a long way since its creation in 1976. Unfortunately, many of those original I stallments and ideas have not evolved with the changing landscape of expected downtown...

Seriously concerning experience from a safety perspective. There were several movable tiles in the sprinkler area that were concerningly called out to staff. One of the maintenance techs came out to the area called out and did not see it as a concern that there were movable wet tiles and went on to say that the surface under the tiles aren't level. VERY CONCERNING!! However, I was able to speak directly with D. Sterns via phone call and he assured me that he'd follow up with staff regarding concerns and check in to see if tiles were being inspected. After my call with Sterns, I witnessed Life Safety staff just sit in their chair and not have any engagement with children running through the sprinklers (which is a park rule). I even captured video of one of the guards on her phone. More disturbingly, at approximately 2:07 pm, the maintenance tech (later identified to me by name) who I had conversed with re: movable tiles, struck the interstate signage (Photos captured) while driving on the sidewalk, in a golf cart! Safety was definitely not at the forefront of this...

JOHN W. GALBREATH BICENTENNIAL PARK About John W. Galbreath Bicentennial Park This 4.66 acre park at 233 Civic Center Drive is a downtown destination that features a one-of-a-kind fountain, park restaurant, and an eye-catching performance pavilion. The Scioto Mile Fountain presented by the American Electric Power Foundation —a stunning 15,000 square-foot marvel—shoots more than 1,000 jets of water, enhanced by unique lighting and fog effects, and is interactive and accessible for visitors of all ages. The park is also home to Milestone 229, a state-of-the-art, glass-enclosed restaurant and covered dining terrace that offers a panoramic view of the Scioto Mile, fountain, and the downtown skyline. The Performing Arts Pavilion is a permanent stage that hosts concerts, movies, and dance performances. The park was originally dedicated in 1976 to honor John W. Galbreath, an Ohio philanthropist, builder, Kentucky Derby breeder, and owner of the Pittsburgh Pirates...