Lighthouse Park reimagines a historically significant but  underutilized corner of Cleveland’s Warehouse District into a dynamic and engaging public realm. Named for Cleveland’s first lighthouse, which occupied the site from 1830 to the late 19th century, the park celebrates its history while creating a space for connection, play, and performance.

At the heart of the design is the Light Bar, a 100-foot-long  illuminated installation that pays homage to the original lighthouse’s beacon. The Light Bar weaves through the space, lighting the park and  extending its hours of use. Historical elements, including the original lighthouse steps and portions of a stone retaining wall, are seamlessly integrated into the park, grounding it in its rich history.

Lighthouse Park features wood-deck platforms, adult-sized bench swings, and a powered stage that foster moments of gathering and performance. These amenities transform the park into a social hub where residents and  visitors can sit, meet, and connect with friends. As a vital link, the park  also enhances the pedestrian experience by connecting the Warehouse District  to the Lower Cuyahoga River Valley and supporting ongoing riverfront development.

The project originated from PORT’s winning entry in the Downtown Cleveland Main Avenue Bridge Underpass (MABU) Design Competition. This intervention reclaims surplus roadway to create a continuous public realm that connects the East Bank Flats, the Historic Warehouse District, and the Cuyahoga River. Completed in 2022, this project demonstrates how thoughtful, inventive solutions can yield impactful public spaces within tight urban conditions, setting a benchmark for innovative urban design.

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