After more than a year of construction, Public Square is finally back open.
Crews wrapped up construction just in time for the Republican National Convention.
Thursday morning the City of Cleveland, Cuyahoga County and Group Plan Commission unveiled and re-dedicated the revitalized green space.
My morning view of @CLEPublicSquare What a difference!! pic.twitter.com/MIt7UX8Ghx
— Terminal Tower CLE (@TowerLightsCLE) June 30, 2016
Work on the $50 million renovation started last February.
Cuyahoga County executive Armond Budish talking about resurgence of downtown CLE pic.twitter.com/riyMG4Ha7y
— Derick Waller Ch. 5 (@derickwallerTV) June 30, 2016
Now that the barriers are down, visitors can see the new walkways, green space, cafe and fountain area.
The fountain area will be converted during winter months into a skating rink.
Earlier this month, newsnet5.com's Jonathon Walsh looked into possible rusting already happening on some benches in the new Public Square.
Executive Director of the Group Plan Commission Jeremy Paris told us: "The benches installed on pre-cast concrete in Public Square have been treated with a material to protect and seal the wood. This is an essential part of ensuring its long-term durability. As part of a managed process, after the wood is treated, some of the material will temporarily bleed onto the concrete. The concrete will be cleaned throughout the process."
.@CLEPublicSquare looking great this morning! ?? Live update at 5:30 on GMC. @wews pic.twitter.com/8pO89KGRpc
— Sarah Phinney (@sarahephinney) June 30, 2016
