Waterfront Improvements Project

 

Description

 

The City of Euclid embarked on this ambitious Waterfront Improvements Project to reinvigorate our shoreline, providing a dynamic and inviting space for recreation and relaxation. This comprehensive initiative was designed to protect our shoreline, enhance accessibility, preserve natural beauty, and create a welcoming environment for all.Our Waterfront Improvements Project was selected as the winner of “Best Project” at the 2021 Ohio Economic Development Association Annual Excellence Awards. 


Uniqueness of the Project

The Euclid, Ohio Waterfront Improvement Project is a transformational, precedent-setting erosion mitigation and public access infrastructure project that is essential for livability, economic growth, and community resiliency. One of the unique aspects of this project is its ability to set the model for the transformation of Great Lakes waterways through the public/private partnership developed when the City negotiated easements from nearly 100 lakefront stakeholders. These easements allowed for temporary construction as well as permanent maintenance and public access across historically privatized shoreline.


Phase 1: Shoreline Protection and Enhancement

The first phase focused on vital shoreline protection measures. We implemented erosion control solutions to safeguard our waterfront and developed scenic walkways that offer stunning views of Lake Erie. The enhanced landscaping and native plantings have restored natural habitats, creating a harmonious blend of nature and community. This phase included the completion of the Joseph Farrell fishing pier. Phase I of the waterfront plan was funded by $1.4 million from the City of Euclid and $355,000 from the State of Ohio.


Phase 2: Public Access and Shoreline Stabilization

The second phase, known as the ‘Waterfront Improvements Plan Phase II – Public Access and Shoreline Stabilization,’ came to a close with a total investment of $6.8 million. Opened in Spring 2020, this phase introduced an innovative 3/4 mile multi-modal trail that welcomed thousands of people for walking, biking, or jogging, especially during a time when gyms were closed. The expansion increased public access across historically privatized land while mitigating significant erosion, which previously resulted in more than a foot of land being lost annually to Lake Erie. This phase begins at the Sims Park Fishing Pier and extends east, open to the public from dawn to dusk.


This project has set a benchmark through its public-private partnership and long-term easement model for shoreline stabilization. It is being considered as a model across Great Lakes communities, particularly in Cuyahoga County, where a ‘Lakefront Public Access Plan’ is set to launch. County Executive Armond Budish, Euclid Mayor Holzheimer Gail, and other officials celebrated the completed trail section in August, acknowledging the County's significant contribution of $4 million from its Casino Revenue Fund. As part of this project phase, the Euclid City Council approved the creation of a Shoreline Special Improvement District (SID), which will facilitate further shoreline projects through innovative financing. Earlier this summer, the Council also awarded a $3.67 million contract to Mark Haynes Construction for the next portion of Phase II, funded primarily by public sources, including a significant grant from FEMA.


Phase 3: Community Spaces and Connectivity

The third phase, known as the Senator Kenny Yuko Park Project (Waterfront Phase III), emphasized creating inclusive community spaces and enhancing connectivity. Set on 5.5 acres at Lakeshore Boulevard and E 247th Street, this phase established a premier park with a multi-purpose trail connecting the Lakefront Trail with Lakeshore Boulevard. Yuko Park currently features a connected walking trail, ample vehicle parking, natural landscaping, and scenic greenspace,—all offering stunning views of Lake Erie.


Coming Soon: Beachhouse and Restaurant

We are excited to announce the upcoming addition of a beachhouse and restaurant to our waterfront area. These new facilities will provide a perfect setting for dining with a view, hosting events, and enjoying the scenic beauty of Lake Erie. Plans for our beach house include a bar/lounge, restaurant, public restrooms, outdoor terrace, paddle craft rental and storage areas, and trail maintenance facilities.


Visit and Explore

We invite you to explore the transformed City of Euclid waterfront. Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a family picnic, or participate in community events, our waterfront is a destination that promises enjoyment and relaxation for everyone. Come and experience the revitalized shoreline and be a part of our growing community.

Project Impact:


  • Economic Growth : By transforming Euclid – the 13th largest municipality in the State of Ohio and a majority-minority, low-income community – into a connected Lakesfront city, the Project will help attract businesses to the region and spark a new wave of outdoor tourism for residents and visitors alike. The project directly connects Lake Erie and public lakefront amenities to the City’s central business district. Additional retail, residential and restaurant development is anticipated as well as a future public marina.
  • Transportation Connectivity: The Lakefront Public Access Trail connects two public lakefront parks including one in a low-to-moderate income census tract. It directly connects to the Lake Erie Coastal Lakefront Bikeway (SR 283) and public transit lines connecting Lake County to the east and Downtown Cleveland to the west.
  • Health Benefits : Ohio’s Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan states that walking is the most popular outdoor activity. Off-road bicycle and pedestrian non-motorized trails provide a safe, low-stress network to commute and recreate. The Project promotes healthy, active lifestyles and decrease long-term health-care costs due to improved community health.
  • Community Resilience : The Project is located within ODNR-designated Coastal Erosion Areas, swathes of lakefront land that are subject to loose over 1’-0” of earth and infrastructure annually due to climate impacts including more frequent storm events, warmer temperatures preventing the Great Lakes from freezing and impervious development of the upland. Critical infrastructure in the project area included storm and sewer connections as well as residential single family and multi-family units.
  • Uniqueness: Euclid’s project is precedent setting for its innovate public/private solution to combat erosion, a model being sought for reproduction throughout the Great Lakes region. By negotiating permanent easements from nearly 100 stakeholders, a public access trail atop a concrete seawall buffered by limestone revetments mitigates the catastrophic erosion jeopardizing most immediately 1400 majority low-moderate income renters in four apartment towers in the Phase II – East construction area. By opening up ¾ of a mile to public access, the Project enhances equitable access to our region’s greatest natural asset and protects the community from natural disaster.

Contact

 

Patrick Grogan-Myers
Director of Planning and Development
(216) 289-2830
pgrogan-myers@cityofeuclid.com