Throughout history, streets have served as a point of connection. From people to horses, carriages to street cars, public transit to automobiles, streets provide the main medium for travel, connecting us to work, home, and the people and places we love. And yet, in modern society, streets do more to divide us than connect us. Public transit, bicycles, pedestrians, and cars – both driven by people or by computers – all vie for command of our streets. Cars are often prioritized even though ownership is down either by choice or by circumstance. It begs the question: who are streets and sidewalks for? And who, ultimately, should be responsible for making those decisions?

Nearly 50 years ago, plans were made to bisect Cleveland’s east side suburbs with the Clark, Lee, and Heights Freeways. Residents of those suburbs came together to fight city government and the proposal – and won. Today, similar resident-led efforts are underway, illustrating the importance of streets and sidewalks that are inclusive of people, not just cars.

Join us for the first forum in our For the Love of Cleveland: The Power of Place series, a free conversation in Public Square on how to ensure our urban streets and sidewalks are safe for all, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.