Project Overview
The Osborne Park Reimagination and Shoreline Protection Project is a master plan designed to restore and enhance the park’s Lake Erie shoreline. For years, high water levels have caused significant erosion along the 1,400 linear feet of shoreline, leading to the loss of parkland, threats to underground infrastructure, and reduced recreational opportunities. This project takes a proactive approach to protect and reimagine the shoreline for future generations.
Phase One:
The first phase will focus on addressing immediate concerns, including stabilizing eroded slopes and implementing effective erosion control measures. Pathways to the waterfront will be created to ensure safe public access while protecting vital storm sewer and water lines.
Phase Two:
The second phase will further enhance the park by adding recreational features, such as walking paths, scenic overlooks, and thoughtfully designed site amenities like sitting areas and swinging benches that invite residents and visitors to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the lakefront.
Supported by the significant $2 million state grant secured through the efforts of Ohio State Senator Jerry Cirino and supported by State Representative Dan Troy marks the beginning of this transformational project aimed at preserving Willoughby’s shoreline.
Project Timeline
June 2021 – Awarded $200,000 Emergency Erosion Assistance Grant from ODNR
2021-2023 – Sale of real estate on N. Beachwood with profits going to project
October 2023 – Awarded $75,000 Coastal Management Assistance Grant from ODNR
December 2023 – Permit application submitted to the Army Corp of Engineers – still awaiting as of Jan 2025
June 2024 – A $2 million state grant secured through efforts of Senator Jerry Cirino
December 17, 2024 | Bid awarded to Mark Haynes Construction Inc. for Phase 1
Current Renderings
Articles
September 28, 2024 | https://www.news-herald.com/2024/09/28/osborne-park-project-is-important-initiative-for-willoughby-editorial/
September 26, 2024 | https://www.news-herald.com/2024/09/26/ground-broken-at-osborne-park-in-willoughby-for-re-imagination-project/
June 26, 2024 | https://www.news-herald.com/2024/06/26/willoughby-receives-2-million-transformational-projects-grant-for-osborne-park-project/
June 16, 2024 | https://www.news-herald.com/2024/06/16/concord-township-waterline-willoughby-osborne-park-shoreline-among-projects-to-get-funds/
May 11, 2024| https://www.news-herald.com/2024/05/11/willoughby-seeking-funding-for-slated-osborne-park-project/
October 14, 2021 | https://www.news-herald.com/2021/10/14/feedback-sought-on-proposed-plans-for-osborne-park-in-willoughby/
Public Meetings
September 24, 2024 | Groundbreaking Ceremony
April 2024 | SmithGroup shared information on phase one coastal engineering during this meeting, including a comprehensive bathymetric study. The designers also presented the current schematic design, the first phase of the architectural design, for phase two uplands. This phase will include walks, overlooks, and other site amenities such as sitting areas and swinging benches.
June 2022| The new park design concept* was presented. SmithGroup shared the process taken to formulate the current design concept, budget targets, the plan to seek out grant opportunities and more.
August 18, 2021 | Osborne Park Kick Off Meeting offered brainstorming opportunities for the public; included desired amenities and features, concerns related to maintenance, operations, and safety, and budget targets and phasing.