The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Heating up
Continued development, events coming to city’s downtown
More economic development and community events are expected to happen in Downtown Willoughby this summer, according to Mayor Robert Fiala.
Fiala said he is proud of the economic development the city has had so far despite going through a nationwide pandemic. Ward 4 has seen a significant emergence of new buildings, shopping centers and more.
He noted the involvement of USA Management and their improvements to the shopping center at the corner of Euclid Avenue and Route 91 with the addition of a new Marc’s store, also under construction.
“Commercial construction activity continues to be strong in Willoughby, and we are pleased with progress at the new Marous Brothers Construction headquarters building, near Route 29 and Vine Street,” the mayor said. “This will be an important gateway building to our historic downtown as well as an important capital investment in our community.”
With summer here, many people may be looking forward to getting back outside but are hesitant to do so. Fiala wants residents to know they still have plenty of safe options to get out and have fun.
“Many events and activities had to be canceled or postponed this summer, but city parks and playgrounds are open, our baseball and softball leagues have started their seasons, and park pavilions are available for rental as of July 6,” he said.
Fiala added that the city is excited to announce the beginning of their summer gazebo concert series on July 9 with Abbey Rodeo.
Other events scheduled this summer include Outdoor Movie Nights in Downtown Willoughby, Live Well Willoughby sponsored by the Downtown Willoughby Organization on Aug. 15, ArtsFest, sponsored by the Willoughby Western Lake County Chamber of Commerce, on Aug. 29 and The Rib Burn-Off, sponsored by the Bars and Restaurants Association scheduled for Sept. 26 and 27.
“We are planning to ensure that state and health district guidelines for social distancing and mass gatherings are followed for our summer events,” he said.
Before the pandemic, Fiala was scheduling Mayor’s Nights Out as an opportunity for Willoughby residents to have an open and candid discussion about topics relevant to them. This July, he has made plans to bring those nights back for residents to voice any concerns.
“These forums will be scheduled monthly throughout the city,” Fiala said. “With the mass gathering restrictions lessened, we plan to host our first Mayor’s Night Out in July. I look forward to the opportunity these events will provide to meet, talk, and share ideas with our residents.”
“Commercial construction activity continues to be strong in Willoughby, and we are pleased with progress at the new Marous Brothers Construction headquarters building, near Route 29 and Vine Street. … This will be an important gateway building to our historic downtown as well as an important capital investment in our community.”
— Wiloughby Mayor Robert Fiala