CLEVELAND — There may soon be a whole new look for the Cuyahoga River Valley area in Cleveland.
Vision for the Valley, a large-scale initiative to re-imagine the Cuyahoga River Valley, will unveil its plan on Wednesday via video virtual meeting. Viewers will see the valley-wide recommendations, key focus areas, and next steps towards the implementation of the plan.
Civic leaders believe that a cohesive blueprint for the valley can enhance Cleveland’s network of green spaces, while still keeping the Cuyahoga River's tradition of commerce, transportation, and industry strong.
The initiative is a partnership led by the city of Cleveland, Cleveland Metroparks, Port of Cleveland, Flats Forward, and funded by the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency (NOACA).
Vision for the Valley says the Cuyahoga River "has served as the geographic center, and catalyst for economic growth for Greater Cleveland, with a current estimated economic impact of $3.5 billion for the region."
Development of the River Valley also has experienced a recent impressive comeback from the Flats East Bank, Towpath Trail, and Merwin’s Wharf. Civic leaders believe the river is once again seen as a huge asset, as both a commercial and industrial artery and recreational respite.
According to project leaders, Cleveland has "two waterfronts." This means not only the 8-mile stretch of land that flanks the North Coast, but also the Cuyahoga River Valley. "If Cleveland is to realize its full potential as a waterfront City, we must leverage both waterfront assets," VFTV writes on its website.
The Vision for the Valley plan is slated for presentation this fall to the city's Planning Commission.
Vision for the Valley's leaders are offering a six-part series of virtual office hours that will be held between August 3–14 where team members can answer questions and provide additional details on various aspects of the plan. Click here for more information.
