It’s always a wise idea for local government entities to pursue grant funding to defray the cost of important projects.
So we were pleased to find out that Willoughby recently received another $1 million grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to further provide enhancements for the Chagrin River Floodplain Restoration and Trail Project.
The News-Herald’s Marah Morrison reported about Willoughby being awarded the grant.
The $4.5 million project includes the removal of invasive species and the decommissioning of the former nursery site, which is currently underway, and then eventually, the construction of a new 2-plus-mile trail on the property, according to Mayor Robert Fiala.
Last year, Willoughby hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking and official launch of the project, which is an initiative aimed at protecting land along the Chagrin River and enhancing public access.
In addition to water quality improvements, the project will include the creation of wetlands and vernal pools, the decommissioning of the idled nursery, the removal of invasive plant species, riverbank erosion controls and developing a passive park featuring walking trails.
In partnership with Lakeland Community College and the Andrews Osborne Academy, an environmental studies curriculum will also be created for students from kindergarten through college.
According to the city, this project has been made possible through federal, state and local funding. Willoughby received $1.7 million in grant funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the NOAA Climate-Ready Coasts Initiative, which was used to purchase 105 acres of riparian habitat along the Chagrin River.
“Our federal grant from NOAA and Congressman Dave Joyce’s commitment to the Great Lakes and clean water, exemplified by his congressional grant, was absolutely critical in advancing this important project,” Fiala said.
Willoughby is partnering with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the Western Reserve Land Conservancy and the Chagrin River Watershed Partners to bring this conservation endeavor to fruition.
The News-Herald congratulates the city of Willoughby for obtaining this latest grant, which will greatly benefit the Chagrin River Floodplain Restoration and Trail Project.