News

The City of Willoughby is excited to announce the ceremonial groundbreaking and official launch of the Chagrin River Floodplain Restoration and Trail Project, a vital initiative aimed at protecting precious land along the Chagrin River and enhancing public access to the area.

This project has been made possible through federal, state, and local funding. The City of Willoughby received $1.7 million in grant funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Climate-Ready Coasts Initiative, which was used to purchase 105 acres of critical riparian habitat along the Chagrin River. This acquisition served as the foundation for the project’s development and momentum.

Additionally, Congressman Dave Joyce has been instrumental in securing a significant $2.3 million grant from the House Appropriations Committee, further advancing the project. The Lake County Commissioners, recognizing the long-term environmental, recreational, and economic benefits, also committed $675,000 from ARPA funds to support this transformative initiative.

“Our federal grant from NOAA and Congressman Dave Joyce’s commitment to the Great Lakes and clean water, as exemplified by his congressional grant, was absolutely critical in advancing this important project,” states Willoughby Mayor Bob Fiala.

The City of Willoughby is partnering with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the Western Reserve Land Conservancy, and the Chagrin River Watershed Partners to bring this conservation project to life. The initiative will enhance climate resiliency, improve public access, and contribute to the growing conservation and recreation corridor along the river—from downtown Willoughby to Lake Erie.

In addition to water quality improvements, the project will include the creation of wetlands and vernal pools, decommissioning an idled nursery, the removal of invasive plant species, riverbank erosion controls, and developing a passive park featuring walking trails. In partnership with Lakeland Community College and Andrews Osborne Academy, an environmental studies curriculum will also be created for students from kindergarten through college.

Groundbreaking Ceremony

The City of Willoughby invites community members, local leaders, and media to attend the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, October 10th at 11 am. Shuttles to the ceremony location will be available from Daniels Park (38401 Johnnycake Ridge Road) from 10:30 am – 10:45 am. This event marks the beginning of an important environmental preservation project that will protect and enhance one of the city’s greatest natural assets—the Chagrin River.