Background
Cleveland’s Lake Erie waterfront was initially developed with a focus on industry and transportation. Modern efforts to better utilize the lakefront as a community asset began in earnest with the City of Cleveland’s 2004 Waterfront District Plan. The plan, among other laudable goals, established the framework of increased connections to the lakefront, such as the realized Lakefront West project, and advocated for stewardship of publicly held lands, which has also been advanced with the 2013 acquisition by Cleveland Metroparks of lakefront parks.
The CHEERS effort builds upon previous goals and community momentum established in past plans. The team of WRT, KS Associates, and Great Ecology were selected as the most qualified consultant to lead CHEERS. 12 teams of excellent local and national consultants responded to the Request for Qualifications.
Cuyahoga County Planning is also studying the Lake Erie waterfront. The Cuyahoga County Lakefront Public Access Plan covers the entire 30-mile Lake Erie shoreline within Cuyahoga county. This effort will coordinate with local communities and regional entities to determine opportunities to improve transportation networks and increase public access to Lake Erie. More information can be found here.
About Cheers
We have created a community-focused resiliency plan for the eastern Cleveland lakeshore that will Embrace the Lake as an asset for future generations. The year-long study focused on leveraging nature-based solutions to improve the environment, reconnect communities to the lake, enhance public health and wellness, bolster the economy, and improve aquatic and terrestrial habitats. We have been working with partners, stakeholders, and the community to identify priorities and interventions to improve resilience in the study area and adjoining neighborhoods. Preliminary technical design explores project feasibility and advance select project components towards implementation. Although the study has finished, we are still looking for community guidance on priorities, as well as feedback on the draft plan.
CHEERS Community Town Hall – Draft Plan (April 22, 2021 @ 7 p.m.)
CHEERS Community Town Hall – Concepts (February 2, 2021 @ 7 p.m.)
September Walkabout Summary
Community Kick-off Meeting - June 30, 2020 at 6 p.m. via Zoom
Pre-proposal Meeting - February 12, 2020