CLEVELAND — After more than four years, the “temporary” jersey barriers along Superior Avenue in Cleveland’s Public Square could soon come down.
Mayor Justin Bibb announced proposed legislation that would replace the barriers with bollards that his office describes are “modern and removable.” The project would cost $3 million and requires City Council approval.
“Public Square should be the people’s park but for too long, jersey barriers have got in the way. Today, my administration is taking the first step towards removing these barriers and restoring Public Square to its original intent – to serve as a meeting place in the heart of our city,” Bibb said.
The movable nature of the bollards will allow Public Square to open or close for events.
Since the barriers were erected, Superior Avenue has only been open to buses through Public Square.
The legislation calls on the city to cover $1.5 million in costs. Additional funding could come from private and philanthropic investments.
Bibb’s office said since the Group Plan Commission held the original contract for the design, construction and reconstruction of Public Square in 2015, it will be authorized to commence a redesign, upon City Council approval.
”Group Plan Commission applauds Mayor Justin Bibb’s expedient introduction of legislation to improve the safety, security and aesthetics in Public Square by removing the jersey barriers in Superior Avenue and planters at the corner entryways into Public Square with an attractive, removable bollard system,” said Group Plan Commission Chairperson Tony Coyne. “Additionally, RTA’s commitment allows us to begin the process as soon as legislation is passed. We will connect with our funding partners in hopes of closing the gap, finishing the job we started, and making Superior what it was intended to be for the enjoyment of our community.”
Then Mayor Frank Jackson originally planned to close Superior Avenue to all traffic and remove the street, but later announced buses would be allowed to use the roadway.
