1995 -- Whiskey Island Partners' Agreement

In the words of a Fact Sheet from Cornell University: "The development of Whiskey Island Marina is a model of how coastal access for the public can be achieved through public and private sector development agreements. Located on Cleveland's downtown lakefront, this marina was designed by a developer with a vision for creating public access in combination with the operation of a privately-owned and operated marina."

In 1995, the City of Cleveland passed ordinance 1018-95 authorizing the "Mayor and the Director of Economic Development to enter into a devolopment agreement with Whiskey Island Partners, Limited." Whiskey Island Partners proposed to include "development of significant public areas which will include a fishing pier, waterfront promenade, picnic area, a riverside plaza, an observation deck, transient dockage, open space, and public parking"

On the City's part, the City promised to provide a dedicated roadway for access to Whiskey Island.

Today, the marina is operating and, during the boating season, the public has free access to the greenspace.