Councilmember Nieuwsma: Stop the paving of green space in downtown Evanston

Councilmember Nieuwsma: Stop the paving of green space in downtown Evanston

Recent signers:
Joe Williams and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

We are deeply passionate about preserving the limited green spaces in my community. In Downtown Evanston, we cherish the small patch of green at Sherman Ave and Orrington Ave. It's one of the rare remnants of nature amidst the urban environment—a spot for quiet reflection and a slice of calm in a bustling area.

However, this cherished space is under threat. Councilmember Jonathan Nieuwsma is pushing forward plans to pave over this beloved green haven. This action would not only rob our community of an essential green space but would also set a precedent for the erosion of nature in our already densely built downtown.

Green spaces are vital for the well-being of urban residents. They offer us clean air, a place to reconnect with nature, and a sanctuary for our mental and physical health. Studies have shown that access to green spaces can lower stress, boost mood, and even improve concentration and creativity. The loss of this space would greatly impact our community's quality of life.

Moreover, with the increasing effects of climate change, maintaining urban green spaces has never been more critical. These patches of land help combat urban heat, support local wildlife, and contribute to biodiversity. By paving over this space, we are taking a step backward in supporting a sustainable and environmentally friendly city.

We urge Councilmember Jonathan Nieuwsma and the Evanston City Council to reconsider these plans. Instead of paving over this essential green space, let us invest in enhancing and preserving it, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of our community for generations to come. Possible alternatives could include park improvements, planting more trees, or incorporating sustainable landscaping practices that align with our city's environmental goals.

Please join us in standing against the paving of our precious green space. Together, we can have our voices heard and protect the natural beauty of Downtown Evanston.

Sign this petition to show your support and demand that our city leaders prioritize green spaces in urban planning.

avatar of the starter
Residents Against 605 Davis …Petition Starter
Media inquiries

142

Recent signers:
Joe Williams and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

We are deeply passionate about preserving the limited green spaces in my community. In Downtown Evanston, we cherish the small patch of green at Sherman Ave and Orrington Ave. It's one of the rare remnants of nature amidst the urban environment—a spot for quiet reflection and a slice of calm in a bustling area.

However, this cherished space is under threat. Councilmember Jonathan Nieuwsma is pushing forward plans to pave over this beloved green haven. This action would not only rob our community of an essential green space but would also set a precedent for the erosion of nature in our already densely built downtown.

Green spaces are vital for the well-being of urban residents. They offer us clean air, a place to reconnect with nature, and a sanctuary for our mental and physical health. Studies have shown that access to green spaces can lower stress, boost mood, and even improve concentration and creativity. The loss of this space would greatly impact our community's quality of life.

Moreover, with the increasing effects of climate change, maintaining urban green spaces has never been more critical. These patches of land help combat urban heat, support local wildlife, and contribute to biodiversity. By paving over this space, we are taking a step backward in supporting a sustainable and environmentally friendly city.

We urge Councilmember Jonathan Nieuwsma and the Evanston City Council to reconsider these plans. Instead of paving over this essential green space, let us invest in enhancing and preserving it, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of our community for generations to come. Possible alternatives could include park improvements, planting more trees, or incorporating sustainable landscaping practices that align with our city's environmental goals.

Please join us in standing against the paving of our precious green space. Together, we can have our voices heard and protect the natural beauty of Downtown Evanston.

Sign this petition to show your support and demand that our city leaders prioritize green spaces in urban planning.

avatar of the starter
Residents Against 605 Davis …Petition Starter
Media inquiries

The Decision Makers

Evanston City Council
8 Members
1 Responded
Jonathan Nieuwsma
Jonathan Nieuwsma
Evanston City Council - Ward 4
“Thanks for reaching out about the proposed changes to the south end of Fountain Square. I’ve received several emails from constituents expressing similar concerns, so with apologies for copying over this response, I wanted to share my thoughts on the issue. First, to clarify what is currently being proposed: the plan is to remove the grass from the south end of the square, extend the pavers to the full extent, and add additional trees and lighting. (No grass but more trees.) Next, I want to make it clear that I did not initiate this proposal and, to be honest, I’m not super enthusiastic about it. We’re a dog family too so I totally understand the desire to have at least a little patch of green(ish) grass. The decision to pursue this plan came after several attempts over the last few years to make grass work in that area but sadly that has proven to be difficult. In addition to the detrimental effects of dog pee, road salt in wintertime is also a factor. Our public works department has tried different solutions to make grass work, but it’s been a losing battle to keep the grass in that area alive let alone green and nice. We’ve received feedback from downtown businesses, concertgoers and market shoppers about how unappealing that patch of grass appears, as well as concern about potential health impacts. Downtown businesses have also pointed out that the south end of Fountain Square serves as a key gateway to downtown and keeping it nice is in the best interest of the entire community. On balance, my take is that the proposed course of action, while not optimal for dog owners with whom I sympathize, is probably for the best. Ending on a positive note—heads up that a new dog park in the ward will be opening later this spring in Grey Park at the corner of Ridge and Main. Free for Evanston residents (same as the dog beach)! We’ll be announcing a naming contest soon.”
Bobby Burns
Bobby Burns
Evanston City Council - Ward 5
Thomas Suffredin
Thomas Suffredin
Evanston City Council - Ward 6
Daniel Biss
Daniel Biss
Evanston City Mayor

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Petition created on January 28, 2026