Mayor's Report

We are very excited and proud of the progress the city has made over the summer. Several major projects are moving forward, representing significant investments in public safety, recreation, the environment, and the quality of life in our community.

First, our new police station is nearing completion and remains on budget. This important project will provide the men and women of the Willoughby Police Department with the modern facilities and resources they need to carry out their mission of keeping our community safe. The building will include dedicated training spaces, a community room, and a state-of-the-art dispatch center.

Work is underway on the Osborne Park Shoreline Improvement Project, with most of the major construction occurring this summer. Final restoration, landscaping, and walkways are scheduled for completion in spring 2027.

The shoreline improvements are being funded through grants and are being completed in two phases. Phase One represents an investment of approximately $3.575 million and includes the creation of a small sand beach and cobble beach. Phase Two is made possible through a $3 million National Fish and Wildlife Foundation grant and will include a small jetty and completion of the remaining shoreline revetment to the eastern edge of the site. Together, these improvements represent a total investment of approximately $7.575 million and will significantly enhance and protect our shoreline.

The Todd Field Amphitheater Project is also moving forward. The project has been reduced in scale to avoid interfering with the existing baseball fields while still creating a new venue for community performances and events. A $550,000 contract has been awarded, funded through two State Capital grants. Most of the work is expected to be completed before winter. The project will also provide access to the Chagrin River Trail project.

Finally, we are concluding the design drawings and permitting for the Chagrin River Trail Project, with construction expected to begin this fall and be completed in 2027. This design-build project has a contract value of $4,545,162, in addition to approximately $1.2 million in property acquisition.

Funding for property acquisition and construction comes from a combination of grants and other funding sources, including NOAA, EPA, ODNR, Lake County ARPA, and Willoughby ARPA. This project will restore and protect more than 100 acres along the Chagrin River, stretching from Todd Field to Daniels Park, while creating new opportunities for public access and recreation.

We also have several exciting community events scheduled for September. The DTW Outdoor Market continues on Saturdays throughout the month. Roar by the Shore at Osborne Park is Saturday, September 5, The American Cancer Society Relay for Life at Wes Point Park is Saturday, September 12, and the Willoughby 5K is Sunday, September 13.

And finally, with the beginning of a new school year, please remember to exercise extra caution when driving. Our students will once again be walking, biking, waiting at bus stops, and crossing our streets. Please slow down, stay alert, and help us make the school year safe for everyone.