Doan Brook Restoration project meetings scheduled in Northeast Ohio

The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District (NEORSD) is close to finishing the design plans for the Doan Brook Restoration project at Horseshoe Lake Park. To inform the public, NEORSD will host several meetings. An online Zoom meeting is scheduled for March 31 at 6 p.m., where participants must register. In-person open house sessions will take place on April 2 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m. at the Cleveland Heights Main Library, and no registration is required for these. The project aims to replace the current man-made lake with a more natural stream corridor. Matt Scharver, the NEORSD Director of Watershed Programs, discussed the plans with local city councils this week. The project is expected to cost around $7.2 million for local amenities, with Shaker Heights covering most of the costs. Since 2019, the lake has been drained, allowing streams to begin their natural flow. NEORSD will also plant various trees and install a shared-use trail throughout the park. The total project cost could reach $33 million, funded by user fees, with significant work needed to remove sediment that has built up over the years. Local funding will also support features like a Nature Play area and wetland observation spots. Shaker Heights has set aside money for the restoration, while Cleveland Heights is planning to budget for it in 2026. Local officials have raised concerns about wildlife and the types of plants selected for the project to ensure they are not favorites of deer.