Cleveland Metroparks Reveals Plans for World-Class Community Sailing Center

Cleveland Metroparks announced plans for its new state-of-the-art Patrick S. Parker Community Sailing Center at E. 55th Street Marina. The new $15 million center will be the first of its kind on Lake Erie in Ohio, offering access and sailing opportunities to the region through year-round sailing STEM programming for schools and community partnership organizations.

“We are thrilled to announce the Patrick S. Parker Community Sailing Center, which will redefine access to our lakefront and open new recreation and educational opportunities for everyone in our community,” says Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian M. Zimmerman. “This state-of-the-art facility will be a beacon for inclusivity, equity and access along our lakefront, and build on our ongoing collective efforts to serve east side communities, including the CHEERS project, Mandel Community Trail and enhancements to Gordon Park South.” 

The fully accessible, year-round community center will connect the City of Cleveland harbor to the cultural hub of University Circle through Mandel Community Trail.

“The Patrick S. Parker Community Sailing Center will allow residents of our hometown to access new recreational opportunities, build skills and connect with our region’s lakefront,” adds Jenny Parmentier, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Parker Hannifin Corporation. “This investment is also about strengthening our community through participation in the sport of sailing, something Parker Hannifin has a strong connection to dating back to the son of our founder and former Chairman Pat Parker. This new innovative community asset has the potential to positively impact generations.”

The center will feature two new facilities with multi-purpose learning spaces, indoor and outdoor community areas, concessions and dining, a rooftop deck, overlook tower and boat house.

“The Foundry’s mission is to make rowing and sailing programs accessible, remove financial and experiential barriers and build a community that can fully embrace our great lakefront,” says Foundry Executive Director Gina Trebilcock. “The Patrick S. Parker Community Sailing Center, inspired by Patrick S. Parker, former Chairman and CEO of Parker Hannifin, who was an avid sailor and Cleveland philanthropist, will provide our community direct lakefront access, grow our reach to schools, neighborhoods and community centers and make Cleveland a leader in the sport of sailing.”

To learn more, visit clevelandmetroparks.com.