CLEVELAND — The city announced in a press release that it has received almost $60 million in funding for the North Coast Connector through the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) Grant Program.

What You Need To Know

  • The City of Cleveland is receiving almost $60 million in funding for the North Coast Connector project

  • This funding comes via the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) Grant Program

  • The project's first phase will be altering part of State Route 2, converting it into a "pedestrian-friendly boulevard"

  • The city estimates breaking ground on the project in 2027

The funding is meant to alter parts of State Route 2, turning it into a “pedestrian-friendly boulevard" as the first phase of the project.

The North Coast Connector project aims to offer access to popular locations on the coast such as the Great Lakes Science Center, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Huntington Bank Field via a walkable/bikeable land bridge, according to the project’s website.

“We are thrilled to receive this significant investment from the INFRA program for the North Coast Connector project," Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb said in the release. “This grant will allow us to reimagine our waterfront access, transform outdated infrastructure, and build a safer, more vibrant connection between our residents, the lakefront and the Port of Cleveland. This is a crucial step forward in making Cleveland a more connected and accessible city." 

Back in June, the city announced that the Ohio Legislature was investing $20 million in the project. The city also hosted a public forum concerning the project back in August.

The city says they estimate to break ground on the project in 2027.

In the press release from the city, they said the project’s first phase features various demolition and construction projects:

  • Demolition of Main Avenue bridge between West 9th Street and Erieside Avenue
  • Construction of pedestrian/bike friendly West 3rd bridge and intersection
  • Construction of Shoreway Boulevard segment to ramps on West 3rd and East 9th streets

Bibb also thanked some Ohio politicians for their efforts toward this grant.

“I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated congressional delegation, particularly U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown and Congresswoman Shontel Brown, for their unwavering support and advocacy in securing this grant for our city,” Bibb said in the release. “Their commitment to improving our roads, bridges and public facilities is a testament to their leadership.”  

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