Councilman's Corner
Good weather is finally here; at least I think so. With the good weather brings construction work which is about to begin on several key projects all of which will have an impact on our community.
Demolition has begun on the concrete turrets of the destroyed pedestrian bridge over I-90 which was hit about three years ago by a truck. Construction of a new pedestrian bridge by ODOT will continue through the summer and is scheduled to be completed by the end of the year.
Final work will begin shortly on the new Veteran’s Park at East 174th Street and Lakeshore Boulevard. The dedication of the park is set for Sunday, June 12, 2016 at 2:00 PM. The groundbreaking for the new Eastside Market at East 105th Street and St Clair is set for Thursday, May 5th at 6:00 PM. We are hoping this will be the impetus for additional enhancement and investment along the St Clair Corridor. Design work continues on the proposed new Oliver Hazard Perry School. Public meetings and updates will be forthcoming.
As of this writing, we have heard nothing more about Cleveland Clinic’s long-range plans for Euclid Hospital in light of the fact that they are moving in-patient beds and employees from Euclid to a new planned Beachwood facility. I have asked our Congresswoman, Marcia Fudge, to become engaged in this matter. She has toured the hospital approximately two weeks ago with Clinic officials to better understand what is being proposed. We are all waiting for a planned meeting with Clinic officials to be scheduled some time soon. As I have said before, Euclid Hospital’s presence is critical to the well-being of the residents and the communities of both Euclid and the Greater Collinwood and Glenville neighborhoods of the City of Cleveland. Let’s hope that Clinic officials understand how passionately we feel about Euclid Hospital and its role in our community.
Everyone is aware of the ongoing problems and issues with abandoned, condemned and foreclosed homes in our greater community. Recently, through the Federal “Hardest Hit” Fund, Ohio was in line to receive a substantial amount of revenue to address these properties. In our own area it would have directed funds to the Cuyahoga County LandBank to either demolish or repair the home once the property was obtained. Unfortunately, the State of Ohio failed to file all the appropriate documents and so the funding we thought we would be receiving will be substantially less. Only time will tell as to how much of the funds Cuyahoga County will be receiving in order to rid our communities of these eyesores and safety hazards. Watch for future updates on this critical issue.
With good weather we all see the debris left from the winter whether it is in our own yards or on our streets. Join in our community clean up on Saturday, May 7 either by joining the official neighborhood activities or by cleaning up in your own yard and street. Community pride should not be just one day, though. If we all do our part, our community can continue to be a great place to live, work and play. That old saying, “charity starts at home,” the same holds true for cleaning up your property; it starts with one property and will spread outward throughout the neighborhood.
I look forward to seeing everyone at our numerous community meetings and events. Watch for the “Scoop on Summer” guide to help you plan your summer in the neighborhood. Remember, too, the Friday Night Summer Concert series at Euclid Beach Park and all the other concerts and activities that take place in the community through the summer months. Hope to see you there.
As always feel free to call me. I may be reached at my office at (216) 664-4236 or via email at mpolensek@clevelandcitycouncil.org.