Westerville Pushes Green Future on Two Fronts at Community Center
On the Ground And On The Roof
While the City of Westerville plans to restore a natural wetland ecosystem behind its popular Community Center, it is also preparing to install a high-tech solar array on the building’s roof. The two projects, which will take place about the same time, will serve as a strong, dual approach to the city’s sustainability goals, combining ecological restoration with renewable energy generation at one of its most visible public landmarks.
The solar project will be officially presented to the Westerville Planning Commission during its public hearing on Wednesday night, September 24. The commission will review the request from applicant Community Renewable Energy for a Conditional Use Permit to install the large rooftop solar array. This hearing will occur just one day after the Parks and Recreation Department held a separate public meeting to discuss the wetland restoration project planned for the land directly behind the same building.
The rooftop project is a key component of the city’s “Impact Solar” program, a partnership with Community Renewable Energy aimed at reducing electricity costs for the city and its public utility. Following the approval of a contract by the City Council in May 2025, the Community Center will be equipped with 1,283 solar panels. This 763.385-kilowatt system is expected to produce approximately 916,062 kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually, supporting the facility’s operations.
Alkire Run Renovation
Meanwhile, just behind the building, the city will begin restoring the Alkire Run Wetland and Floodplain. This four-acre project aims to improve water quality, reduce stormwater runoff, and develop important habitat for native wildlife. Plans include re-aligning the stream into a more natural course, planting native trees, shrubs, and wet meadow plants, and creating seasonal wetland pools. A pedestrian bridge over the run has already been installed to ensure public access and connectivity.
These two distinct efforts are not a coincidence but a direct implementation of Westerville’s long-term Community Plan. The plan’s “Natural Environment” section explicitly calls for the city to “pursue energy conservation community-wide, starting with public facilities,” using techniques like solar panels. It also recommends developing a master plan to protect and restore wetlands and streams.
The city notes in the staff report that the Community Center, on a 25.4-acre site tied to the city’s 1990s annexation, is set to showcase Westerville’s future by demonstrating how modern technology and natural preservation can create a sustainable community.
The Westerville News is a reader-supported publication by Gary Gardiner, a lifelong journalist who believes hyper-local reporting is the future of news. This publication focuses exclusively on Westerville—its local news, influence on Central Ohio, and how surrounding areas shape the community.
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