MOUNT VERNON, OH – A beloved feature of Ariel-Foundation Park, the River of Glass, has undergone a significant revitalization, culminating in a stunning reimagining that was brought to life over many weeks of dedicated work.
The ambitious project began with the meticulous removal of existing cullet (original glass from the Pittsburgh Plate Glass Works #11 site, now known as Ariel-Foundation Park), clearing the way for a brand new, solid foundation. Following this crucial first step, cullet of all shapes and sizes were carefully sandblasted and then sorted, laying the groundwork for their precise placement in the new design.
The actual re-creation of the "river" was a tedious, piece-by-piece process. Over three days, large and medium-sized cullet were strategically positioned in preparation for the final, critical stage: affixing the glass to its new structural base. From sunrise to nearly sunset, the dedicated team worked tirelessly, transforming the vision into reality. The result is a vibrant and reimagined River of Glass, showcasing a collaborative effort that has enhanced one of the park's most unique attractions while paying tribute to the generations of talented workers who were leaders in the glass making industry.
Ariel-Foundation Park Conservancy and City officials extended their sincere thanks to every hand that made this revitalization possible, and to the donors listed below who provided generous financial support for Ariel-Foundation Park’s 10th anniversary, ensuring the River of Glass will continue to be a captivating focal point for visitors for many years to come. To join others in the River of Glass Reimagined effort, become a Friend of the Conservancy in 2025 with a gift of $500 or more.
River of Glass 10th Anniversary Project Supporters
Anonymous – one gift
AquaSeal
Sam and Paula Barone
Allan S. Bazzoli, M.D.
Brenneman Lumber Co.
Karen Buchwald Wright
Paul and Janet Brown
Keith and Kate Burley
City of Mount Vernon
Eric and Kami Diehl
Tim and Keri Duffey
Jim and Diane Goodrich
Mark and Elaine Hauberg
Chris and Amy Hiner
Brian and Amanda Huprich
Cameron and Christine Keaton
Knox County Foundation
Doug and Julie Leonard
Gerald and Barbara Lindstrom
The Mike Miller Family
Joe and Krys Mortellaro
Mount Vernon Rotary Club Foundation
Josh and Meredith Mullet
Joe and Sally Nelson
Marc and Jen Odenweller
Michael Percy and Nicole Pagano-Percy
Park National Bank
The Ramser Family
Tom Rastin
Larry Reed and Sarah Goslee Reed
Kim and Pam Rose
Jeffrey and Stephanie Scott
Matthew and Joanne Starr
Jan Thomas and Gary Doernhoefer
Dennis and Patricia Tuttle
Ian and Charlotte Watson
Josh and Susan White
Alex and Libby Wright
Gordy and Fran Yance
Scott and Julie Zimmerman
