CLEVELAND -- Cleveland really does rock!
The American Planning Association selected Public Square as one of America's five "Great Public Spaces" and among the top 15 "Great Places" in the country.
APA’s Great Places in America program recognizes the streets, neighborhoods, and public spaces in the United States demonstrating exceptional character, quality, and planning -- attributes that enrich communities, facilitate economic growth, and inspire others around the country.
“Cleveland’s Public Square is a national example of how public spaces effectively create a sense of place that creates access and opportunity for all,” said Cynthia Bowen, FAICP, president of APA.
Public Square has a long history, originally planned to replicate a traditional New England town in 1796 by surveyors from the Connecticut Land Company. Public Square hosted numerous historical events, including the location of President Lincoln lying in state when his funeral train came to Ohio, and the site of the first electric street lighting in the world in 1879. Over time, Public Square became viewed as primarily a transit depot to connect streetcar riders.
Recently redesigned, Public Square has become a “grand gather space” in the center of downtown that has hosted everything from the Cleveland Orchestra’s annual free concert to American Ninja Warriors on NBC.
In addition to Public Square, APA recognizes the following Great Public Spaces in 2018:
- The Plaza: Orange, California
- Aspen Pedestrian Mall: Aspen, Colorado
- Mill River Park: Stamford, Connecticut
- RiversEdge at Marcum Park: Hamilton, Ohio
Since launching the Great Places in America program in 2007, APA has recognized 290 neighborhoods, streets, and public spaces around the country. Designees are selected annually and represent the gold standard for a true sense of place, cultural and historical interest, community involvement, and a vision for the future.