Mayor’s Message

Honoring a Legacy in Washington Fields

On April 21st we gathered together in Washington Fields to celebrate the ribbon cutting of George Washington Plaza. This event marked the kickoff of our 2025 Cotton Days celebrations and added a beautiful, symbolic landmark near the recently completed Red Cliffs Utah Temple. The landscaped plaza sits on a .6-acre triangular remnant parcel created when 3650 South in Washington City realigned with 1450 South in St George and was renamed George Washington Boulevard. By combining the names of our cities and county we stand united and pay tribute to the founding father after which Washington City and Washington County were named.

Clearly visible for all who pass by is a 6’ 6” tall bronze statue of George Washington sculpted by Jerry Anderson. The prominent figure is placed on a pedestal in front of classical columns to evoke strength, leadership, and the foundation of the nation. The design was brought to life by landscape architect firm Costanza PS Associates, who incorporated symbolic, educational, and practical elements as directed by a committee of local residents and leaders including: Mount Vernon-style gates, red brick pavers, cherry trees, rose bushes, meandering pathways with bollard lighting, and sitting areas. The plaza includes a bronze marker honoring Revolutionary War Patriots from 1775 to 1783, contributed by the Daughters of the American Revolution. Washington City signage is displayed on street frontage, and at the east edge stands a flagpole, where the United States flag flies proudly above General Washington’s personal standard, a blue banner with 13 white stars.

Funding for the statue was shared equally among Washington City, Washington County, and St George. The plaza was primarily funded through Washington City’s RAP (Recreation Arts and Parks) funds along with a generous contribution from Washington County’s TRT (Tourism) funds. This collaboration is a tangible example of what can happen when entities come together for the good of the community, and I’m grateful to all who helped bring this vision to life.

While the ribbon cutting was a memorable day, the real purpose of this space goes far beyond that single moment. Whether walking its pathways, sitting on a bench in the landscaped gardens, or simply passing by, visitors are offered a chance to pause and consider the value of freedom and the sacrifices that make our nation what it is today. Every detail of the plaza was chosen to help tell that story, and to remind us not only of our founding, but of the ideals we strive to uphold.

Future phases of George Washington Plaza will continue this mission, not just celebrating our country’s founding, but telling the story of our local farming and agricultural heritage. There is ample area within the plaza for additional markers, monuments, and artwork to tell our local history. Our story is one of grit and sacrifice by growing crops in the harsh desert soil of the southwest, under the hot Dixie sun, with irrigation water diverted from the unruly Virgin River. Future generations will need to understand and remember where we came from, including the strength, resilience, and values of past generations that helped shape our city since its pioneer settling in 1857.

As communities across the country celebrate America’s 250th birthday this year, I’m proud that Washington City is contributing something lasting and meaningful to that milestone. George Washington Plaza reflects both our national story and will reflect our local heritage and history as well. The plaza stands as a beautiful reminder that we are part of something much bigger than ourselves.

 -Kress Staheli

Mayor

kress@washingtoncity.org