Public Square

In 2016, a redevelopment project transformed Downtown Cleveland’s Public Square from four separate town squares into a distinct 10-acre park. While the combined transit hub and gathering space has served Cleveland well for large events, the space has room to improve in providing free regular activities and programming for residents. Downtown Cleveland’s population has grown 32% since 2010, and five office towers in the area immediately around Public Square have been converted into a total of 1,200 new housing units since 2016. At the same time, many folks view Public Square as a place to walk through or around, rather than to linger and intentionally spend time.

In 2024, Downtown Cleveland, Inc. received a Community Placemaking Grant from Project for Public Spaces to create a sense of community ownership and welcome visitors day and night to Public Square with events and programs that make it feel like a truly welcoming community space. 

“The Community Placemaking Grant from Project for Public Spaces will help us make a tremendous impact on Public Square by implementing physical improvements and a range of programming to build community connectivity and irresistible experiences," said Michael Deemer, President and CEO of Downtown Cleveland, Inc. "It is with investments such as these that we create an 18-hour, 15-minute welcoming city center that attracts talent, jobs, residents, and businesses.”

Check back to see this space transform!

‍Click here to learn more about Project for Public Spaces’ Community Placemaking Grants.