On November 12, 2025, the EDNDC celebrated the opening of Ruskin Commons, located on Xenia Avenue directly in front of Ruskin Elementary School. The park is dedicated to longtime Board President Paul Woodie, who was born and raised in Twin Towers and has served the Neighborhood Development Corporation since its inception. His lifelong commitment to the neighborhood and unwavering leadership helped make this project possible.

​

From Vacant Lot to Neighborhood Jewel

For nearly four years, the site has stood empty after the removal of a convenience store. Now, the space will be transformed into a welcoming community hub, complete with open lawns, outdoor play and learning features, and art and cultural installations. The park will serve as a natural extension of the school grounds, providing a safe and green space for students, families, and neighbors to connect.

Ruskin Commons is more than just a recreational space—it’s part of EDNDC’s ongoing commitment to strengthening community, creating safe and welcoming environments, and building neighborhood pride.

“This park is a dream that neighbors have been working toward for years,” said EDNDC

Executive Director Jan Lepore-Jentleson. “We heard directly from residents that they

wanted safer outdoor spaces where kids could play and neighbors could come

together. Ruskin Commons is that vision brought to life.”

​

A Community-Crafted Mosaic

One of the park’s signature features will be an in-ground mosaic designed and

built by the Mosaic Institute in collaboration with neighborhood residents, community

groups, and students from Ruskin School. The mosaic will help transform a public

surface into a shared source of pride and visual heritage.

The mosaic is made possible by a grant from the Dayton Foundation.

​

Sustaining the Park: Partnerships at Work                                                        

The Ruskin Commons project is funded through the City of Dayton's American Rescue Plan Act

(ARPA) and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) resources, and a grant from Citywide

Development. Once complete, Dayton Public Schools (DPS) will assume responsibility for the

park’s maintenance, with assistance from the DPS Landscaping Program to ensure the

park remains safe, clean, and vibrant for years to come.

 

​

​