Funds from The State of Ohio and Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District Support Upgrades to Guest Parking Lot and Main Entrance
The transformation continues for the Western Reserve Historical Society with a $1 million exterior renovation at the Cleveland History Center in University Circle. With support from The State of Ohio and the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, and in partnership with Behnke Associates, Inc. and F. Buddie Contracting, Ltd. WRHS completed much needed renovations to its main visitor parking lot on Magnolia Drive and the Reinberger Gallery main entrance plaza. The improvement project featured a facelift with improved access, new parking controls, and the implementation of green infrastructure. This upgrade also improves guest access, safety and overall appearance of the 7-plus acres that comprise the Cleveland History Center.
The cornerstone of the project is an approach to sustainability. Through the installation of multiple bioretention cells, infiltration, stormwater harvesting, and other green infrastructure practices, the parking lot and patio is designed to eliminate from the combined sewer system up to 750,000 gallons of stormwater runoff annually and in turn, reduce the release of combined sewage into the environment. In addition, lighting upgrades incorporate highly efficient LED fixtures, with appropriate “cut offs” to minimize light pollution.
“The Western Reserve Historical Society genuinely appreciates support from The State of Ohio and the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District for making this work possible. Stewardship is one of the Historical Society’s core values, ” explains Kelly Falcone-Hall, WRHS President & CEO. “This includes stewardship of the land and responsible stewardship of the collections that we hold in public trust. This major renovation project dramatically improves the guest experience and community access to the Cleveland History Center, and to University Circle in general.
The new parking lot and guest entrance, located off Magnolia Drive, opens to the public on Friday, September 11, 2015. Visible improvements will include a pervious paver drive leading to a stamped concrete entry. Pay-in-lane parking equipment will allow 24-hour parking access for visitors to University Circle. Multi-modal transportation and community connectivity is encouraged by including bike racks and maintaining convenient drop-off points near the entrance. A new walkway from the parking lot to the entrance is enhanced by a renovated exterior wall, new gates, and increased green space.
Parking Rates (effective 9/11/15)
Public Hours (Tuesday-Sunday 7:00 am-6:00 pm)
First 2 Hours…………………………..$8
Each Additional 30 min……………..$1
Daily Max……………………………….$15
After Hours (Tuesday-Sunday 6:01 pm-6:59 am | Monday all day/night)
Flat Rate………………………………..$10
*Pay in Lane/Credit Card Only
All WRHS Members – $5/car flat rate
*During regular museum hours only