Story and Photos by Jerry Masek
The COVID-19 pandemic attracted many headlines for the past 12 months, but West Park continued to move forward in so many other ways.
Things are looking up
West Park Shopping Center: The City Planning Commission approved plans for the site of the now-vacant Kmart building. Three national retail stores will occupy the main building, with a grocery store and drive-thru coffee bar nearby. Work should begin later this year.
Luxury apartments are planned for the West Park-Fairview Park border, on Brookpark Road, near the NASA Glenn Research Center.
West Park Animal Hospital breaks ground on a larger new building on its existing property on Rocky River Drive.
New Master Plan was unveiled, to guide the development of Hopkins International Airport for the next 20 years.
Libraries are getting a facelift. The West Park branch is closed for a year of renovation, and plans to build a new Rockport Branch continue.
Good news for good food
100th Bomb Group Restaurant will re-open as the Aviator Event Center on Brookpark Road, across from Hopkins International Airport.
Arbys plans to remodel the former Steak-and-Shake at Kamm’s Corners. Plans are being reviewed by the City.
Hospitality continues to be an area strong point.
Your tax dollars at work
Voters will see a crowded mayoral race this year, plus a contested battle for the Ward 17 City Council seat.
Old Lorain Road. Metroparks planners proposed a new, safer access trail to the Rocky River Reservation. Work will progress when funding is secured.
Speak Up. City Council reform moves closer to reality. There may soon be a public comment period at all meetings.
Summer fun Jump in. After some downtime, swimming pools re-opened at Gunning Recreation Center and Impett Park.
To market, to market. The colorful, award-winning Kamm’s Corners Farmers Market is now in its 15th season on Albers Avenue.
Centerpiece. The Independence Day parade, organized by the West Park Kiwanis, steps off at 9:30 a.m. Monday, July 5. Happy birthday, USA.