Cuyahoga Land Bank is breathing new life into the 30-acre neighborhood now known as   Circle East District, and sustainability is at the heart of the project.

The use of reclaimed sandstone for the walkways in the new park greenway  illustrates this commitment   And this isn’t just any sandstone Ð it’s a story etched in stone.

The greenway’s paths are being paved with materials salvaged from several former apartment buildings in East ClevelandÐthe Burnette Apartments at 15800 Euclid Avenue and six apartment buildings on Chapman Avenue built in the ’20s   featuring beautiful, cut sandstone veneers. Once vibrant homes, these structures fell into disrepair and foreclosure over the years. Eventually, they ended up in the hands of the city and the Land Bank and were demolished.

But instead of demolition marking the stones’ final chapter, the Land Bank saw an opportunity for renewal. The high-quality sandstone from the buildings was carefully extracted prior to demolition and given a second life.

This approach means:

• Reduced Environmental Impact: Recycling the existing stone minimizes the need to quarry new materials, reducing the project’s environmental footprint.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Repurposing readily available materials translates to significant cost savings.
• Historical Connection: The salvaged sandstone becomes a physical link to the neighborhood’s past, adding a unique character to the greenway.

This ingenious solution perfectly embodies the Circle East District’s vision. The neighborhood is being rebuilt with a focus on sustainability, walkability and green spaces, all while showcasing a commitment to environmental responsibility.

The Circle East District is a testament to the power of community development and the potential for sustainable practices to create vibrant, resilient neighborhoods. As residents stroll along the greenway’s reclaimed sandstone walkways, they’ll be reminded that even the most challenging situations can be transformed into something beautiful and enduring.

Check out our slide show of the sandstone salvaging.

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New Greenway to Bring Recreation and Renewal

The Circle East District greenway is taking root! After months of clearing land, the exciting project is sprouting to life with the planting of new trees and other land development. This transformation will turn vacant lots into a vibrant greenway, offering a multi-use trail for residents and visitors to enjoy.

 The entire Circle East District was designed and is being constructed to meet (NGBS) certification requirements. This rigorous certification program ensures that the entire project meets high standards for energy efficiency, water conservation and the use of sustainable materials. The greenway is one of the community improvements related to sustainability, climate resilience, walkability, and healthy living that supports that certification process.  

The greenway is being developed thanks to its generous funding partners, including the Cuyahoga County Community Development Supplemental grant program ($50,000), City of East Cleveland ARPA funds ($1 million), and a County Healthy Urban Tree Canopy grant ($50,000).

 Connecting Our Community

The Circle East Greenway is more than just a path. It’s a symbol of connection. This new trail will provide a safe and convenient way for residents to get around the development, encouraging walking, biking, and even scooting.

 A Haven for Recreation

This exciting greenway wasn’t designed in a vacuum. Following a commitment to community-driven development, the Circle East greenway was shaped through residents’ voices and requests. Through a placemaking process (link?), which involved public meetings, interactive workshops and online surveys, residents shared their ideas and priorities. This collaborative approach ensures that all Circle East District development, including the greenway, reflects the needs and desires of the community by maximizing its potential as a space that fosters connection, recreation, and a sense of ownership for everyone who calls this community home. The possibilities for healthy enjoyment are endless.

Revitalizing Vacant Lots

The greenway project takes a brilliant approach to urban renewal. By transforming vacant lots into vibrant green spaces, the development creates a valuable amenity for residents and enhances the overall aesthetic of the neighborhood.

The Circle East project is taking a unique approach to its walkway construction, waving a bit of history into the greenway’s fabric. Local history buffs and sustainability enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that repurposed sandstone from demolished apartment buildings that once stood near the site will be incorporated into the greenway for a performance space and at entryways to the park. (link to news story?) This sustainable approach not only gives these beautiful stones a new life but also adds a touch of nostalgia to the greenway and a tangible connection between the East Cleveland of yesterday and the vibrant Circle East District community blossoming today.

A Look to the Future

The greenway development is a significant step forward for Circle East Development. With the greenway project underway, the future of this growing community is looking bright. We can’t wait to see the community bring this space to life and witness its positive impact on residents’ health, well-being and sense of community.

Stay tuned for updates on the Circle East greenway’s progress!

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