CLEVELAND — Cleveland Metroparks officials announced Wednesday the completion of a stretch of the Towpath Trail between Literary Avenue in Tremont and the Canal Basin Park in the Flats.

The 1.5-mile section is part of the fourth and final stage to form a path from Canal Basin Park to New Philadelphia along the Ohio Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Bikers, runners and walkers are all invited to use the paved trail. 

The fourth stage of Cleveland Metroparks' project on the Towpath Trail will form a seamless connection between the Harvard Avenue Trailhead and Canal Basin Park.

Cleveland Metroparks representatives said that the new section of trail used to be obscured by weeds and overgrowth. Now, the trail offers users “fantastic views” of the Cuyahoga Valley and Cleveland skyline. 

“The completion of this final critical stage brings together over five miles of recreational trail for the residents of Cuyahoga County,” said Cuyahoga County Executive Armond Budish. “The Towpath Trail provides something for everyone — whether you’re looking to bike ride with skyline views, learn about our local history or just spend time in the fresh air this summer.”

Creating a seamless path along the Towpath Trail has taken some time, effort and money. The fourth stage of construction will cost an estimated $9.4 million, with 80% of the funding coming from the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program, Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency.

“The Towpath Trail is a catalyst for the city, county and the region. As one of the nation’s National Heritage Areas, the Ohio and Erie Canalway has fostered and championed the vision for the Towpath Trail for nearly 30 years,” said Mera Cardenas, Canalway Partners executive director. “Through partnerships and perseverance, the Towpath Trail is becoming a reality and forever changing our relationship to the Industrial Valley and the way we move around the city. As we celebrate the completion of the final stages of the Towpath Trail, we’re excited to turn our attention and resources to Canal Basin Park which will mark the historic access to the canal and celebrate those connections.”

Metroparks said construction will begin this fall on a separate greening and trailhead project at Canal Basin Park.