Solstice Steps Expected to Open to the Public Oct. 29

Mayor Michael Summers gave members of Lakewood City Council a sneak peek of the Summer Solstice Steps at Lakewood Park.

The $2 million project to reinvent Lakewood’s access to Lake Erie is almost complete, and is expected to open to the public on Oct. 29 with a special ceremony.

When fully complete, the Solstice Steps will feature an upper and lower promenade, extending from the existing park at the top of the slope, to the waterline with seating in between. The existing grass hill-slope transformed into cascading stone stairs with grass landings.

“We see this as a pivotal step in increasing access to green space, without changing the footprint of the park,” said Lakewood Mayor Michael Summers. “This project will allow thousands to enjoy picturesque views of Lake Erie, our greatest natural resource.”

The new solstice stairs will provide areas for residents to lie out and have a picnic or simply sit and enjoy a beautiful sunset. They have been termed “Solstice Steps” because on the summer solstice, the sun will set directly upon the central node of the project. This marks the farthest north the sun sets each year.

The steps are tentatively set for an official unveiling and ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4 p.m. Oct. 29.