Canal Basin Park Moves Forward

Mar 31, 2021

Cleveland City Council passed legislation (3/29) clearing the way for improvements to Canal Basin Park, the trailhead for a section of the Towpath Trail.

The park, expected to cost nearly $757,000, will be developed using excess parking spaces at the site adjacent to Columbus Road below the Detroit-Superior Bridge. But the park includes parcels that were once occupied by the canal itself.
 
The park is a step forward toward connecting the Towpath Trail to downtown. The vision for Canal Basin Park is to serve as a gathering place, interpretive park and connective hub at the northern end of the Towpath.

When fully complete the 101-mile towpath follows the original path where it can along the Ohio & Erie Canal that operated from 1827 to 1913. Mules pulled canal boats laden with goods to growing population centers.

More than $550,000 will be covered by federal funding. Cleveland’s share will top $206,000. ODOT has said it expects construction to start the project by August.

The project will involve tree plantings and creation of grassy areas and the addition of benches. More amenities are expected to be added, including docks for day-use boaters and an open air pavilion.