Superior Crossing Ushers in a New Era for Cleveland's Public Square
CLEVELAND, OH (WCTU) - Downtown Cleveland is beating with renewed vigor as the city embarks on the latest phase of Public Square's transformation. The Superior Crossing project commenced today, marking a significant leap towards enhancing downtown Cleveland's central plaza, a move that bids farewell to the longstanding concrete barriers and ushers in a wave of optimism for increased safety, mobility, and aesthetic appeal.
In a symbolic gesture, city officials initiated the construction phase by removing the infamous "jersey" barriers, setting the stage for a comprehensive revamp expected to conclude by late June. This development is not just about beautification but signals a strategic pivot towards creating a more accessible, safe, and welcoming environment for both locals and visitors.
Mayor Justin Bibb, reflecting on the project's inception, highlighted the city's rapid mobilization to fulfill a campaign promise, with the City Council approving a $1.5 million funding proposal in March 2022. "It's been a challenging journey, but the fruition of this project symbolizes our commitment to enhancing the People's Park, making it a more inclusive and accessible space for our community," Bibb stated.
The urgency of the project is underscored by the anticipated influx of visitors for the upcoming Final Four and Solar Eclipse events. The removal of the barriers is a precursor to broader safety measures, including the installation of new security bollards and a state-of-the-art retractable Raptor system designed to protect the square during special events.
Cuyahoga County and the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) are among the key contributors, with the county allocating over $1 million and GCRTA $500,000 towards the project. Additional support comes from local businesses and foundations, underscoring the collective effort to reimagine Public Square as a premier urban space.
Chris Ronayne, Cuyahoga County Executive, emphasized the project's significance, stating, "This endeavor is more than a redevelopment project; it's about cementing Public Square's role as a beacon of community and history in Cleveland and the broader region."
Despite the excitement surrounding the project, concerns about public safety persist, highlighted by recent incidents within the square. In response, the city has secured a grant from the Project for Public Spaces to establish a physical hub for Downtown Cleveland Inc.'s Clean and Safe staff, aiming to bolster safety and cleanliness.
The Superior Crossing project envisions a more pedestrian-friendly Public Square, with features like shared lane markings for bicyclists and an innovative raised crosswalk to ensure seamless pedestrian flow. India Birdsong Terry, GCRTA's General Manager and CEO, pointed out the strategic importance of these enhancements for transit operations, noting, "This project will significantly improve operational efficiency and reduce the impact on our customers."
As Cleveland prepares for this transformation, the commitment to a safer, more accessible public space is clear. Sanaa Julien, CEO of The Group Plan Commission, expressed enthusiasm for the project's potential, stating, "This is a pivotal step towards realizing our vision for an 18-hour city, enhancing the livability and vibrancy of Downtown Cleveland."
Additional news coverage on this, from other local networks, can be found at the following sources:
NEO-Trans Blog, "Cleveland Public Square's Continuing Transformation," published on March 25, 2024. Available online.
News 5 Cleveland, "Cleveland officials announce next phase of transformations for Public Square," published on March 25, 2024. Available online.
WKYC 3, "Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb kicks off Superior Crossing project in Public Square with removal of jersey barriers," published on March 25, 2024. Available online.
