Mayor's Report

Summer is here in Willoughby, bringing outdoor events, concerts, recreation programs, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy our community. It is also one of the busiest times of the year for construction and infrastructure improvements.

This summer, the City of Willoughby has five major road and infrastructure projects either underway or scheduled to begin. Many of these improvements are occurring in the same general area, so residents should expect delays, lane restrictions, detours, and changing traffic patterns throughout the season.

We understand construction can be inconvenient, but these projects represent important investments in the long-term safety, accessibility, and infrastructure of our community.

City projects scheduled for this season include:

SR 84 Retaining Wall Project – Slope stabilization and retaining wall construction beginning near Shankland Road and continuing toward the intersection of Route 174. Work is scheduled to begin July 6, 2026 (weather permitting). SR 84 will be closed between Shankland Road and River Road for approximately eight weeks. Detours will be posted.

River Street Resurfacing Project – Milling and resurfacing improvements through an ODOT-funded project. Work is scheduled to begin July 27, 2026 (weather permitting). Traffic will be maintained, but motorists should expect delays.

River Street Retaining Wall Extension – An additional 192-foot continuation of last year’s slope stabilization project near Wilson Avenue. This work utilizes remaining FEMA grant funding from the original project. Construction is expected to begin in late August. River Street will be closed for approximately six weeks. Detours will be posted.

Ridge Road Sidewalk & Transit Waiting Area Project – New sidewalk connections and LAKETRAN accessibility improvements near the intersection of Routes 91 and 84.

SOM Center Road Commercial Sidewalk Project – Installation of new sidewalks along the commercial corridor on Route 91 near Route 84.

In addition to these City projects, our neighbors in Willoughby Hills have a major resurfacing project underway on River Road (SR 174). This project impacts traffic patterns for many Willoughby residents traveling through the area, with northbound-only traffic restrictions expected to continue through July.

As construction continues throughout the summer, we ask everyone to use extra caution when traveling through work zones. Please slow down, follow posted signs and detours, and stay alert for construction crews, pedestrians, and changing traffic patterns. A few extra minutes of patience helps keep our workers, residents, and visitors safe.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed throughout the summer. Project details, timelines, and construction updates will be available on the City website and shared through our communication channels as work progresses.

We appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation as these important improvements are completed. Although construction season brings temporary challenges, these projects will provide lasting benefits for residents, businesses, and visitors.

Please join us for the special July 4^th celebration with the Cleveland Pops to celebrate America’s 250^th. This family-friendly event will take place on the lawns of Andrews Osborne Academy and the Fine Arts Association. Check out our website and Facebook pages for other events this month.

Thank you for your continued support, and I hope you have a safe and enjoyable summer!