Historic trusses by Cahoon Park in trouble, report says
By Jeff Gallatin
Bay Village
Published March 14, 2007

Some historical areas of the city by Cahoon Park are crumbling and the city may have to put money into repairs if it wants to cement their place in the community.

Mayor Debbie Sutherland said the city recently received a report that the concrete trusses of the historic abandoned interurban railway tracks over Cahoon Park are crumbling and in need of repair. The survey was conducted by Solar Testing Laboratories, a Brooklyn Heights firm, as part of a study on whether to place a pedestrian or bike path through a portion of Cahoon Park. There are eight trusses currently, four east of Cahoon Creek, and four west.

Mayor Debbie Sutherland said the study was being done as part of doing something positive in terms of possible positive development and instead brought bad news of the historic trusses, which are about a century old, she added.

“They’re in pretty bad shape,” she said. “Apparently we’re either going to put some significant money into them or they’re going to come down.”

“In general, the concrete columns, beams and girders show numerous cracks and spalling and are deteriorating due to weathering and exposure to freeze thaw cycles and lack of routine maintenance,” the Solar Testing report said. “A few large trees have grown too close to the trusses thus allowing youngsters to climb these trees and gain access to the top of the trusses.

“It is our professional opinion that the access path in this area should be restricted and the trees be cut down to eliminate youngsters from climbing the trees and gaining access to the top of the trusses. If it is the city’s intention to preserve these trusses for historical reasons then a restoration plan should be implemented, otherwise these trusses should be demolished.”

Sutherland said there are no cost estimates yet on possible repair costs, but said City Service Director Jim Sears will be leading inspections of the trusses to help the city consider its next move.

“We need to consider all the information carefully and see what it would require of us before we make a decision,” she said.

City Council President Brian Cruse said it’s possible the city could receive outside help.

“It’s an unfortunate situation,” Cruse said. “But I know organizations like the (Bay) Village Foundation and other groups interested in historic preservation look into matters like this and might be willing to help out. We should explore those kind of options as well.”

Sutherland said there is no specific time frame for action, but said they will take steps to make sure the area is as safe as possible.