Cleveland's aspirations to revitalize its lakefront corridor and strengthen connectivity throughout the city received a substantial boost with the latest round of federal funding. The U.S. Department of Transportation has granted the city nearly $70 million through the Reconnecting Communities Pilot (RCP) Program for its North Coast Connector project. This windfall, as reported by the City of Cleveland, marks a significant leap forward in the city's efforts to improve its infrastructure.
The financial contributions to the North Coast Connector now total over $150 million, thanks to previous awards, including a nearly $60 million Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant secured in October 2024 and $20 million from the State Community Investment Fund procured in June 2024. Mayor Justin Bibb expressed his excitement about the transformative impact of the U.S. DOT’s investment, stating through the City of Cleveland, “This funding will allow us to reimagine our waterfront access, transform outdated infrastructure, and build a safer, more vibrant connection between our residents, the lakefront, and the Port of Cleveland.” The project is a cornerstone of Mayor Bibb’s Shore-to-Core-to-Shore vision, aimed at improving mobility, safety, and economic potential along Cleveland's waterfront.
Council President Blaine A. Griffin also commented on the development, highlighting the broad support and collaboration responsible for advancing the project. “This historic investment in the North Coast Connector project reflects our shared commitment to creating a more connected, accessible, and vibrant Cleveland,” Griffin stated, per the official announcement from the City of Cleveland's news release. The emphasis on uniting different parts of Cleveland is central to the planned enhancements.
The North Coast Connector, estimated at $284 million and slated to break ground in 2027, aims to convert sections of State Route 2 into a pedestrian-friendly boulevard and construct a pedestrian land bridge that links downtown Cleveland to Lake Erie. The initiative has garnered support from political leaders, including former U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown and Congresswoman Shontel Brown. “The Biden-Harris Administration has believed in Northeast Ohio from the start, and as their administration comes to an end, they have made another investment in our future,” Congresswoman Brown told the City of Cleveland in her statement. Cleveland residents can visit their official website for further details on the North Coast Connector project and its anticipated impact on the community.
