RTA Green Line Extension

February 2025

RTA Green Line Extension

Shaker Heights | University Heights

Concept

Harrison Whittaker

Visualization

Ian McDaniel

Motivation

Transit-oriented-development (TOD) concentrates mixed-use buildings near public transit to decrease car-dependency in densely-populated areas. When an under-utilized transit line can be rerouted to serve future developments and a growing university, that opportunity should be explored to catalyze growth. This proposal aims to display the possibilities when transit authorities rethink existing infrastructure to better serve the population.

Concept

This transit concept suggests rerouting the green line at a new Warrensville Station on Shaker Blvd. The extension follows Warrensville Center Rd north, travels through the middle of a redesigned traffic circle at Fairmount Blvd, and terminates adjacent to the future Gateway North redevelopment – the entrance to John Carroll University.

▷ Possible green line route shown with points of interest.

Ridership Generators

Why this extension? Rerouting the line to terminate at John Carroll University would not only serve a denser population in University Heights, but more importantly afford university students use of the light rail system to access major business and cultural centers in Cleveland. The success of nearby developments like the Van Aken District at the terminus of the Blue Line offer a strong case for investing further in TOD.

◁ View of green line terminus at the entrance of John Carroll University.

Roadway Impacts

RTA has begun modernizing its entire rail fleet with new Siemens S200 LRVs entering service in 2027. These trains can be accommodated in a reconfigured median of Warrensville Center Rd with minimal widening and right-of-way impacts to neighboring houses, leaving room for future TOD on the southbound side of the road.

▷ Dedicated rail right of way, multi-use path, and landscaping improvements.

New traffic signals, stations and a multi-use path running the southbound side of Warrensville Center Rd would enhance the travel experience for both motorists and pedestrians.

◁ Proposed station at Warrensville Center Rd, Shaker Blvd WB and Claythorne Rd.

Circle, Reimagined

Due to the unique size of Warrensville Circle, redesigning it would eliminate the existing thru-lanes and create a true roundabout. Roundabouts are proven to simultaneously decrease travel times and increase pedestrian safety. Additional changes would include a new public plaza inside of the circle for community events, green space and dedicated rail/shared-use-path crossings.

▷ Redesigned Warrensville Circle with public space and Gateway North development.

Gallery

This project is purely conceptual and not affiliated with or endorsed by any regional authorities or organizations mentioned.

Promoting urban planning concepts throughout Cleveland and Northeast Ohio – a vision of the region’s future by and for the people built on ambitious, practical and transformative ideas.