North Coast Connector

Scope

Project Overview The North Coast Connector will bridge the divide that has separated Cleveland’s city center from Lake Erie for generations—making the lakefront more accessible for residents and visitors while unlocking substantial economic development potential along one of the nation’s most promising urban waterfronts. The North Coast Connector is a proposed land bridge connecting the downtown to the lakefront. It will span over the railroad tracks and the Shoreway (State Route 2) to restore access and repair more than a century-old divide, opening up new land for community gatherings and future economic development. State Route 2 will be converted from a limited access freeway to a safer lower-speed local boulevard. The North Coast Connector will advance through multiple phases. Phase 1 refers to the first construction package, which includes the Shoreway conversion from approximately West 9th Street to east of East 9th Street, and associated infrastructure improvements, including the land bridge. Phase 2 will run from east of East 9th Street to the Innerbelt Curve and will advance once the city obtains construction funding. The first construction package includes the Shoreway conversion to a boulevard between West 9th Street and east of East 9th Street, construction of a Land Bridge, W. 3rd Street Bridge improvements, dedicated Port access, demolition work, retaining walls, sidewalks, multi-use paths, and related infrastructure needed before later project elements can move forward. The City is currently coordinating NEPA approval, identifying major utility relocations, identifying necessary ROW parcels, acquiring key permits, and preparing a financial plan, which includes FHWA funding. The North Coast Connector is poised to create significant oppor...