Once a simple pond that gathered weeds and residents' discontent for years, the Memorial Veterans Pool in Parma will finally get a new lease on life. The project, estimated at over $4 million, has already begun — aiming to transform the problematic area into a modern infrastructure facility that will not only protect houses from flooding but also become an aesthetic corner for the community.
The pool is located in the Memorial Veterans Park — near one of the busiest highways in the city. For decades, it served as a stormwater reservoir; however, time and neglect turned it into, as residents say, a “hideous swamp.” Neighbors complained about regular basement flooding after rains, clogged drains, and overall area decay.
“It seemed like all sorts of stuff grew there, and the sewer kept getting clogged,” — shared local resident Arkadiy Prodan, who walks through the park daily.
The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District has launched a major reconstruction effort. According to district representatives, the pool will be expanded and converted into a dry water collector capable of holding almost 16 million gallons of stormwater. This will significantly reduce the risk of flooding in nearby residential neighborhoods.
“This is not just an aesthetic improvement. It’s an investment in residents’ property safety and ecology,” — emphasized Nicole Veles, head of the stormwater management team.
In addition to its functional purpose, the project includes creating a comfortable space for residents. After the reconstruction, the area will feature new pedestrian pathways, benches, lighting, and informational signage. The city aims to replicate the success of the Upper Ridgewood Pool, which has become a favorite spot for walks among Parma residents.
Currently, builders are working on clearing the site, dismantling old trees, and reconfiguring the storm sewer system. The work is progressing actively, and the local community — despite temporary inconveniences — is hopeful for the results.
“I just want to see how it will change. I think it will be beautiful and useful,” — says Mr. Arkadiy with optimism.
The Memorial Veterans Pool, which not long ago was associated with infrastructure failures, will soon be transformed into an example of a smart combination of ecology, aesthetics, and safety.
