Gund Foundation Makes $5 Million Commitment to Public Square Renovation

The George Gund Foundation, a longtime advocate for improving urban design and amenities, has made a $5 million contribution towards the $30 million transformation of Cleveland’s Public Square into a park, plaza and multi-use gathering space.

Plans developed by the project’s landscape architect, James Corner Field Operations, build on recommendations by the Group Plan Commission which studied ways to reconfigure and enliven Public Square’s four quadrants.

“We are enthusiastic about the design and the impact that implementation of these plans will have on Cleveland,” said David Abbott, Foundation executive director. “Green space is becoming more important in making cities livable and competitive. This will give us an active, welcoming green space in the heart of downtown.”

The Public Square renovation is part of a larger Group Plan Commission effort that also includes enhancements to Cleveland’s Mall and a pedestrian and bicycle bridge linking downtown to the lakefront.