Updated Dec 5, 2008
Recently the City of Shaker Heights, in collaboration with RTA, completed the Shaker Heights Lee/Van Aken Transit-Oriented Development Plan to encourage enhanced vibrancy of the area through the historical connection to transit. The plan builds off of the existing strengths of the area, including:
- the municipal anchors (City Hall, Library, Community Building, Police Station/Court, Fire House);
- recent rehabilitation of Shaker Town Center retail area;
- infrastructure and streetscape improvements to Lee Road and Chagrin Boulevard;
- new, densified residential construction.
The Lee/Van Aken Rapid Station was initially developed as part of the original construction of the Shaker Rapid System. As part of the agreement that merged the Shaker
Rapid System with the Cleveland Transit System in 1975, RTA completely reconstructed the Shaker Rapid light rail system from 1980 to 1981. At that time, the Lee/Van Aken
Station as currently configured was built and the screening wall installed. Since 1980, no further significant improvements have been made to the station. It is required
that this station be reconstructed to meet ADA access requirements, giving RTA and the City of Shaker Heights the opportunity to achieve the goals of the Development Plan.
The current Lee/Van Aken Station has the second highest ridership of the Blue Line stations east of Shaker Square, attesting to its importance as a destination within
the community. For transit, this station is envisioned to continue to function as a major destination station within Shaker Heights and to grow with the planned
development for the area. It will continue to offer transfer opportunities for crosstown passengers wishing to ride the rail to downtown or out to
development at the Warrensville-Van Aken area. The new station will improve the visibility of transit and provide improved amenities for passengers waiting to
transfer either to bus or rail, meeting one of the critical goals of the reconstruction.
The design, being led by Bialosky + Partners, Architects, is currently at a conceptual level. The project will
completely reconstruct the passenger loading platforms and access, providing a safer and more inviting environment. At both entrances, new weather-protected vestibules
connecting to elevators and stairs will provide equitable access for all riders. The existing road bridge will be extended to provide a larger sidewalk area for bus
waiting and passenger circulation. Overall, the design will significantly enhance the transit experience at the station, providing enhanced information and greater
security.The overall architectural design was inspired by the quality of design that is present in the buildings surrounding the site. The composition of the waiting pavilions united by a trellis arch structure, creating a streetwall on the west side of Lee Road inspired by traditional Triumphal Arches that celebrate events and people, will unite City Hall with the civic and commercial heart of the community to the south.
The design is expected to be completed in 2009, with construction scheduled upon completion of the design in coordination with RTA's capital budget program.
