We Want Your Feedback - Hudson Gazebo Legacy Project

In 2026, the City of Hudson will honor 250 years of our nation’s history through special events and a legacy project as America250 is celebrated in our community. By completing a legacy project, it will showcase a meaningful way to honor our past and invest in our future.

The Gazebo Bandstand has served as the heart of the community since the late 19^th century and featured three successive bandstand structures. The first, an octagonal gazebo-style bandstand located on the clocktower green, was built around 1880. It was later replaced by a roofless platform bandstand structure on the clocktower green that stood until the mid-20th century. The current gazebo, constructed in 1976, was intentionally designed to echo the original form and built to commemorate the United States Bicentennial. After nearly five decades of use, the current gazebo and its immediate surroundings require updates to better serve the community's needs.

Today, the gazebo and surrounding green continue their historic role as a central gathering place, hosting concerts, markets, art shows, and seasonal celebrations that contribute to Hudson’s enduring historic character.

Scope and Key Improvements

1. Widen Stairway and Create Stage/Performance Area
   • To function as a small performance stage and improve use for groups or weddings
2. Improve Landscaping and Drainage
   • Introduce new plantings and greenery to compliment the gazebo's historic design
   • Improve drainage around the plaza
3. Update Concrete Pad
   • Replace existing broken/cracked concrete with pervious concrete
4. Upgrade Electrical and House in the Rear of the Gazebo
   • Add electrical outlets to the floor of the gazebo and/or an additional pedestal for performer access
   • Remove the existing pedestal in the front grassy area of the gazebo (in a direct sight line of performances)
5. Improve Accessibility
   • Widened steps, ramp to performance platform and area for future ADA lift to the gazebo level

Community Impact and Engagement

To ensure the project is aligned with community organization needs, the City of Hudson met with numerous Hudson organizations. Collectively, these organizations host approximately 35 events and performances on Gazebo Green. Special care will be taken to ensure that all updates respect the gazebo’s historic character. The project focuses on enhancement rather than replacement, preserving the structure’s legacy while adapting it for modern use.

Renderings of Proposed Changes

*Updated rendering as of 2/6/2026

Project Funding

** $65,000 is not an annual cost to maintain the gazebo. The City averages $15,000 every 3 years in repair costs for the gazebo. $65,000 was budgeted for 2026 to make the more significant repairs needed to the broken concrete, drainage and electrical issues.