Cuyahoga Falls opens $7.1M RiverLoop linking river to downtown

Cuyahoga Falls will formally open its renovated riverfront corridor on Saturday, Oct. 24, concluding a construction phase that lasted more than a year. The city is unveiling the RiverLoop and the South Front Street Transformation in a single public event at the Downtown Pavilion and Plaza at 2085 Front St.

The $7.1 million project reconfigures how residents and visitors move between the Cuyahoga River and the commercial district. The new route spans three-quarters of a mile, connecting the water's edge with shops along Front Street. Mayor Don Walters stated the work aims to solidify the city's standing as a regional destination, noting the addition brings further value to the existing downtown core.

Construction crews replaced the lower wooden boardwalk with a new foundation and boards. Above that level, they installed a wider concrete walkway that meets ADA accessibility standards. The path includes scenic overlooks, public art installations, and a stage facing the river. Walters described the stage area, which features built-in seating and colorful artwork, as a previously underutilized space that can now hold more than 100 people.

The route contains 10 specific points of interest designed to educate visitors on local ecology and history. These stops cover wildlife such as bald eagles and river otters, as well as the river's historical significance. QR codes at each location provide additional information. Walters pointed out that the water in the Cuyahoga flows toward Niagara Falls and the Atlantic Ocean, a detail he said many people are unaware of.

Local business owners expect the improved infrastructure to drive more foot traffic to their storefronts. Nathan Walden, who operates Hope Soap on Front Street, said the shop hand-makes its products with natural ingredients. He believes the new walkway will increase customer visits, adding that he has already seen a rise in business over the last couple of years and views the project as a major catalyst for growth.

The celebration will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Walters will lead an official tour of the RiverLoop at noon. Guest speakers will stop at various points along the route to discuss the project's features. Members of the architectural and construction teams, along with city staff, are expected to attend. Light refreshments will be available, and Walters plans to officiate a wedding at a venue within the RiverLoop during the event. Visitors can obtain a map to explore the area independently or join the guided tour.

Walters emphasized that the design supports year-round use rather than serving as a seasonal attraction. He stated that residents can enjoy the space regardless of the time of year.