Funding secured to move ahead with Public Square upgrades in 2023

Concept for $3.5 million project slated for Planning Commission and design review in January 
 
Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2022 — Cleveland — A project focused on upgrading Public Square, namely the Superior Avenue crossing and removal of the jersey barriers, is moving forward in 2023 thanks to the generous support of partners from across the city.   
 
“We are one step closer to the Public Square that Clevelanders deserve,” said Mayor Justin M. Bibb. “We are grateful to all the partners who are committed to getting this done. Thank you for your ongoing support and collaboration.”   
 
Earlier today, the Group Plan Commission—the civic non-profit that programs, maintains, and operates Public Square—announced they have reached a $3.5 million project fundraising goal with support from the City of Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, Greater Cleveland RTA, KeyBank, The Sherwin-Williams Foundation, The George Gund Foundation, Bedrock, Cavaliers, Rocket Mortgage, and JACK Entertainment.   
 
“Cuyahoga County is pleased to support these improvements to Public Square and Superior Avenue,” said County Executive Armond Budish. “It benefits all of us when the heart of Downtown Cleveland is safe, attractive, and accessible.”   
 
In early January, the project team will share a detailed conceptual design with the Downtown Flats Design Review Advisory Committee and the City Planning Commission. 
 
The updated concept under development reserves two lanes for buses and creates permanent curb extensions in the center of Public Square, narrowing the middle portion of the roadway to one lane in each direction and increasing pedestrian safety.   
 
The jersey barriers will be replaced by new security bollards that are aligned with the curb extensions to increase pedestrian space, delineate the roadway from the park, and restrict unauthorized vehicular access. There will also be a new raised “tabletop” crosswalk in the center of the block to facilitate safe and intuitive pedestrian flow between the northern and southern portions of Public Square, and shared lane markings for bicyclists on Superior will be reintroduced for cyclists that are comfortable riding in traffic.   
 
"The Greater Cleveland RTA is proud to serve as a partner in redefining the city's mobility options through and around Public Square,” said GCRTA General Manager and Chief Executive Officer, India L. Birdsong Terry. "Financial contribution opportunities such as these underscore the importance of public transportation to our region, and the subsequent improved safety and access for our customers." 
 
The City, RTA, and Group Plan Commission are continuing to coordinate on design details to advance the project. Planning and design for circulation improvements around the perimeter of Public Square—including a protected bikeway around the square for cyclists that do not want to ride in traffic—will occur in a separate phase.