Greener by Design: The Greenway Project & Sustainable Features at Circle East
As cities across the country embrace smarter, more sustainable urban planning, the Circle East District stands out for its commitment to thoughtful development. At the heart of this transformation is the Greenway Project—a forward-thinking initiative that reimagines public space, mobility, and environmental impact. Paired with a range of sustainable housing and infrastructure features, Circle East isn’t just growing—it’s growing green.
What is the Greenway Project?
The Greenway Project is a cornerstone of Circle East’s Phase 1 redevelopment plan. It envisions a walkable, bike-friendly pathway that connects Woodlawn Avenue to surrounding streets creating a new amenity for neighborhood residents. More than just a recreational trail, the Greenway is a multi-modal corridor designed to prioritize people over cars.
Once complete, the Greenway will feature:
- A landscaped, pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly corridor
- Native plants and pollinator gardens that support local ecology
- Stormwater management systems that reduce runoff and flooding
- LED lighting and solar benches to promote safe, everyday use
This Greenway serves not only as a physical connection between residents, but also as a symbol of Circle East’s future—one that values sustainability, community health, and mobility equity.
Sustainable Living, Built-In
Circle East goes beyond the Greenway by incorporating sustainable features into nearly every aspect of its housing and infrastructure. Whether you’re a future homeowner or just passing through, you’ll see the commitment to a greener future everywhere.
Key sustainable features include:
- Rooftop solar panels on new homes, providing clean energy and reduced utility costs
- EV-ready garages and charging stations, supporting the transition to electric vehicles
- Energy-efficient appliances and insulation to lower environmental impact
- Recycled and locally sourced building materials, supporting the regional economy and cutting emissions
These aren’t just future aspirations—they’re features being built into homes and streets right now as part of the Circle East Phase 1 Plan.
Designed for Health and Resilience
At the core of Circle East’s sustainable development strategy is a focus on long-term resilience and wellness. By promoting walkability, reducing reliance on cars, and integrating green infrastructure, the district is actively improving public health and environmental outcomes.
Benefits include:
- Cleaner air from reduced vehicle use
- Lower utility costs and increased home value through energy efficiency
- Safer, more inviting public spaces for families and neighbors
- A built-in sense of pride and ownership over shared community assets
And through its partnership with regional organizations like University Circle Inc. and Case Western Reserve University, the Greenway Project also ties into broader efforts to position the region as a national leader in smart growth and sustainable planning.
A Model for What’s Possible
Circle East’s Greenway and sustainable features represent more than just thoughtful design—they’re proof that revitalization and responsibility can go hand in hand. By aligning housing, infrastructure, and open space with environmental goals, the Circle East District is setting a new standard for neighborhood development in Northeast Ohio.
Whether you’re biking to work, walking your kids to a nearby museum, or simply enjoying a more peaceful, connected environment, the investments made today are designed to pay off for generations.
