Sharon Lake's new look is on the way, as Great Parks has just reached a significant marker in its ongoing series of renovations and enhancements. In a move that brings the Sharon Lake Improvement Project closer to completion, officials have closed off the lake's drain valve, allowing natural waters to refill the basin. This key phase of the project follows the lake's drainage back in the spring of 2024, setting the stage for a slew of upgrades designed to amp up the recreational and aesthetic appeal of the area.
While this refill signals progress, the area isn't ready for visitors just yet. The entirety of Sharon Lake, along with its adjoining features, remains off-limits. On the bright side, those keen on checking out the rising water levels are welcome to do so from the overlook observation point at Sharon Woods Harbor, "This is an exciting development as we approach the finish line for the renewal of Sharon Lake," said Todd Palmeter, Great Parks CEO, in a statement obtained by Great Parks. The project heads toward a projected completion date in late February 2026.
As the water level increases, visitors will spot construction barriers and notice that the shared-use lake trail is still a no-go zone. Once Sharon Lake reaches its desired capacity, the plan is to roll out additional amenities, including new boardwalks, a floating kayak launch, and fishing piers. The lake will also get a fresh stock of fish, although fishing will remain off the table for a period to let the new aquatic population establish itself. The coming weeks will see the installation of benches and assorted niceties dotting the lake's perimeter.
The summer of 2026 promises more developments, including the introduction of a temporary boathouse on the east side of the lake at Lakeside Lodge, giving a nod to ongoing renovations at the traditional Sharon Woods Boathouse. These enhancements are part of what has been designated as one of the most ambitious projects in the history of Great Parks, aimed at bolstering recreational opportunities, creating rich wildlife habitats, and providing easier access to serene natural spaces. Key environmental initiatives, such as repositioning lake sediment for optimal depth and the construction of rock weirs to check siltation, are baked into the plan.
The financial backing for these extensive improvements stands at over $15 million, a testament to both public support and private philanthropy. Among the contributors are the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, Dorothy B. Francis Charitable Foundation, Duke Energy Foundation, Land & Water Conservation Fund, and State of Ohio Capital Improvement Fund, among others. Their commitment complements funds procured through Great Parks' capital projects and levies approved by voters in pursuit of community-backed master plan priorities.
