CUYAHOGA, CLEVELAND — On Wednesday, June 9, the community and regional partners celebrated the opening of a 1.5-mile section of the multipurpose Towpath Trail connecting Literary Avenue in Tremont to Canal Basin Park in the Flats.
A bush that concealed a bluff until recently was converted into a place where people may enjoy beautiful views of the Cuyahoga River Valley and Cleveland skyline.
The Towpath Trail is already being described as a regional spine, connecting city areas and adjoining suburbs throughout Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and beyond.
“Green spaces are essential to improving not only the aesthetic of our neighborhoods but also the quality of life of our residents and their families,” Mayor Frank G. Jackson commented. “This Towpath Trail will help to create healthier and greener Cleveland neighborhoods for residents to enjoy for generations to come.”
“The completion of this final critical stage brings together over five miles of recreational trail for the residents of Cuyahoga County,” Cuyahoga County Executive Armond Budish added.
Camp Cleveland is featured on Stage 4 of the Towpath Trail. It is a unique interpretive area located in Tremont on the corner of W. 10th and the former University Rd.
The site, the largest of Cleveland’s six Union Civil War Training camps, is commemorated with interpretive signage and a scale model of the ‘Old Secesh Cannon’, while a landscaped area with two large swings, picnic tables, and cooking grills provides residents with a relaxing space and unmatched views of Cleveland.
“The Towpath Trail serves as the regional spine in our growing trail network, improving recreational opportunities and access to greenspace for Northeast Ohioans and beyond,” said Brian M. Zimmerman, Cleveland Metroparks CEO.
“The Towpath Trail is a catalyst for the city, county and the region. As one of the nation’s National Heritage Areas, the Ohio & Erie Canalway has fostered and championed the vision for the Towpath Trail for nearly 30 years,” said Mera Cardenas, Canalway Partners Executive Director.
The $9.4 million Stage 4 Towpath Trail construction began in June 2020 and was finished in May 2021.