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Cuyahoga County to host tours of the historic Veterans Memorial Bridge

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Media Contact: Kelly Woodard: (216) 250-6146; klwoodard@cuyahogacounty.us

People touring the Veterans Memorial Bridge in Cleveland, Ohio.CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH - The iconic Veterans Memorial Bridge will be open to the public for fun and exploration this summer. The free, self-guided tours will take place on Friday, June 21 , from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturday, June 22 , from noon to 11 p.m. Also, new this year, the bridge will open monthly for Take a Hike Tours . Visitors can enjoy the original streetcar station and tracks while taking in the breathtaking views of the Cuyahoga River, Lake Erie, and downtown Cleveland.

The Rediscover Veterans Memorial Bridge event on June 21 and June 22 will feature an art installation with integrated music and performances called GO Dream, created by Cleveland artist Chuck Karnak. GO Dream will showcase a series of stunning kinetic sculptures, or Dream Sails, which will be suspended from the bridge's ceiling. The Dream Sails will move in random ways, creating endless possibilities in how they tip, twirl, and reflect light and breeze. The event is part of Cleveland History Days, an annual celebration of the city’s heritage hosted by Canalway Partners.

"The Veterans Memorial Bridge, a symbol of connection and unity, has long been admired for its stunning design. Cuyahoga County invites residents and visitors to discover this architectural gem and the beauty of the surrounding region,” said Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne. “This year’s Rediscover Veterans Memorial Bridge event is where history and art intertwine. The tours provide a unique opportunity to explore the area’s rich history, envision the limitless potential of the bridge’s lower level, and show support for our local artists.

TAKE A HIKE TOUR: Cuyahoga County has teamed up with the Historic Gateway Neighborhood Corporation to offer a spectacular Take a Hike Tours experience. The tour now includes the magnificent Veterans Memorial Bridge, where knowledgeable tour guides will take you along the streetcar level, from West 9th to West 25th Streets. As you walk, you'll be greeted by actors dressed as historical Clevelanders who will regale you with fascinating stories of the city's past. This 90-minute tour promises to be an unforgettable adventure!

The Take a Hike Walking Tours on the bridge will take place on Sundays: June 9, July 14, August 11, and September 8. The tours will be held at 1 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.

Registration is required. Sign up for a tour TODAY at takeahikecle.com.

“We're thrilled to collaborate with the Historic Gateway Neighborhood Corporation to extend the offerings of our bridge tours,” adds Annie Pease, Transportation Advisor to Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne. “These events allow us to journey back in time and imagine the bridge’s future role in multimodal transportation. We aim to find innovative ways to enhance connectivity and accessibility, ensuring the Veterans Memorial Bridge will again serve as a vital link for all.”

Event participants must sign a waiver. All minors must be accompanied by an adult. The waivers will be made available online in advance of the event.

For more information about the Rediscover Veterans Memorial Bridge, visit cuyahogacounty.gov.

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