New River Trail in Cuyahoga Falls Opens Saturday
A revamped waterfront walk and street upgrade connect downtown to the river, promising year-round access for residents and visitors.
By Lauren Collins ·
Residents of Cuyahoga Falls will gain a new way to experience their city this weekend. A major infrastructure project is ready for public use, linking the downtown business district directly to the Cuyahoga River. The grand opening is scheduled for Saturday, October 24.
The event runs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Downtown Pavilion and Plaza on Front Street. Mayor Don Walters will lead an official tour of the new route at noon. This gathering marks the completion of a project that took more than a year to finish. The total cost for the improvements was $7.1 million.
The centerpiece is the RiverLoop, a three-quarter-mile path. This route connects the riverfront with shops and offices along Front Street. The design aims to make the area more accessible and visually appealing for everyone. Walters described the riverfront as absolutely gorgeous. He believes this addition strengthens the city's reputation for having a top-tier downtown.
Crews replaced the old lower wooden boardwalk with a new foundation and boards. Above that, a wider concrete walkway now serves visitors. This upper path is ADA accessible, making it easier for people with mobility challenges to enjoy the view. The route also features scenic overlooks and public art installations. A new stage faces the river, surrounded by colorful artwork and built-in seating. Walters noted this space was previously underutilized. He said the area can hold well over 100 people and offers a perfect backdrop for events.
Local businesses are eager to see the impact of these changes. Hope Soap is a Front Street shop that makes natural products by hand. Owner Nathan Walden said he believes the new trail will draw more people downtown. He expects this to send more customers to nearby stores. Walden called the project a game-changer for the local economy. He has already seen an uptick in activity in recent years.
The trail is designed to be an educational experience as well as a recreational one. There are 10 points of interest along the path. These spots teach visitors about local wildlife, such as bald eagles and river otters. They also cover the history of the Cuyahoga River. QR codes at each stop provide additional facts for those who want to learn more. Walters highlighted one specific detail: every drop of water in the river flows toward Niagara Falls and the Atlantic Ocean.
During the noon tour, guest speakers will stop at various points to share stories behind the design. Visitors can pick up a map and join the mayor or explore independently. Members of the construction and architectural teams will attend the celebration. Light refreshments will be available for guests. Walters also plans to officiate a wedding at a venue in the center of the loop during the event.
The project is built for long-term use. Walters emphasized that the attraction is not meant to be seasonal. Residents can enjoy the new walkway throughout the year, regardless of the weather. The South Front Street Transformation also includes streetscape improvements. These changes are designed to tie the river more closely to the downtown core.
Source: News 5 Cleveland (WEWS)
