West Cleveland News

Cuyahoga County's comprehensive Greenprint mapping tool has recently been updated, improving accessibility for both citizens and professionals seeking information on natural assets. This digital mapping and data tool, which is easily accessible to the public, displays the county's natural land and water features along with cultural, civic, transportation, and demographic information.

According to a press release from the county, the user-friendly interface allows individuals to explore details such as tree canopy locations, planned trails, vacant parcels, wetlands, and other valuable insights. Users can now examine data on bike and pedestrian crashes, pinpoint the locations of landfills and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Superfund and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) sites. They can also assess Urban Heat Islands and identify State Water Trails. In addition to these features, the tool provides insights into the socioeconomic characteristics of Cuyahoga County's population including equity areas such as Environmental Justice and Federal Justice 40 Disadvantaged Areas. These additions significantly expand the tool's scope.

Mary Cierebiej, AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners), Executive Director of the Cuyahoga County Planning Commission was quoted in the press release saying: "The Cuyahoga County Planning Commission recognizes the importance of mapping out natural assets when making local land use and infrastructure decisions as an important component of community planning. By highlighting the county’s natural assets and making them available through one platform, we can help residents and visitors enjoy our natural spaces and empower developers to make decisions that sustain resources and better our region."

The press release further stated that those seeking to discover trail and bike connections, enhance parks and greenspace, analyze area watersheds or access vital data for funding applications will find the Greenprint application a valuable resource. It can also be used to locate schools and public buildings in a designated area. To facilitate proficiency in utilizing the updated Greenprint tool, virtual training sessions will be provided by the Cuyahoga County Planning Commission starting in January 2024.