Since reopening to the public in June, the renovated Market Square Park has quickly become the front door that the West Side Market had sorely been missing. Now, on any given day, you’ll find people waiting to meet friends while lounging in Adirondack chairs, out-of-towners eating lunch at picnic tables, and busy commuters waiting for the bus.

LAND studio, the City of Cleveland, Ohio City Incorporated, and the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) have been planning the redesign of Market Square Park since 2005.  It was clear with the increase in residents and businesses to Ohio City and the approaching West Side Market Centennial that the park could be updated to expand its usefulness for everyday activities and special events. 
 
In spring of 2009, artist Mark Moskovitz was chosen to design public art elements for the park. Moskovitz worked closely with LAND studio staff and City Architecture to refine his design concepts. His design focuses on harvest themes and uses those concepts to link the park to the West Side Market. This design shaped multiple elements in the park, such as seating and eating areas reminiscent of fruit crates seen throughout the market. Gateway features for the park were inspired by the unique orchard ladders found throughout the region's many fruit tree farms.  In addition, artist Augustina Droze was commissioned to paint a mural for the park that depicts hands creating things that can be made in the Market Square District. Mike Moritz was hired to add an overlay of weaved aluminum to the mural. 
 
While it can take some time for a community to “grow into” a new public space, Market Square Park is well on its way—it’s comfortable and feels safe, accessible, and active. “Market Square Park has created a new community asset,” says Ohio City Inc. Executive Director, Eric Wobser. “This summer thousands of neighborhood residents and visitors enjoyed live music, festivals, and a comfortable place to eat their lunch.  The park has been redesigned to encourage and facilitate year-round programming.”
 
Grab some take out at one of the great local restaurants, find a seat in the park, and enjoy the impressive public art.  Or just pass through on your weekly trek to the West Side Market.