06-03-2025
Pop-up park coming to lakefront this summer
The North Coast Waterfront Development Corporation is launching a "pop-up public space" on the lakefront this summer.
Why it matters: The major infrastructural work of the North Coast Master Plan, including a pedestrian bridge, is still years away. The master planning has been complicated by the Trump administration and the likely departure of the Browns' stadium.
But leaders want Clevelanders to be able to experience the waterfront today.
State of play: The North Coast Yard will be erected with temporary materials on the city-owned lot north of Browns Stadium, next to the steamship Mather.
It will feature concerts and other live programming from May through September, food vendors, outdoor games, basketball courts and seating for relaxing and enjoying views of the water.
What they're saying: "Cleveland's residents should not have to wait to experience a lakefront that belongs to them," said Scott Skinner, NCWDC's executive director, in a press release.
"The temporary infrastructure and exciting programming of the North Coast Yard gives our community a chance to enjoy Lake Erie now."
Flashback: When leaders pitched local businesses on a costly redesign of Public Square before the RNC in 2016, they called it Cleveland's front yard.
The North Coast Yard is being promoted, in a similar vein, as downtown Cleveland's lakefront backyard.
What's next: The Yard will be constructed through May with a grand opening weekend June 13-15.
The summertime destination will host a Wednesday basketball league and Friday skate nights, with a DJ and roller skate rentals.
