Summer 2021 Newsletter

Click here to download the Summer 2021 Newsletter

Cascade Path Sun Gate

In early June, a major new artwork is scheduled to be installed at the top of Cascade Path, the walkway that connects Cascade Street to the waterfront. Sun Gate, created by artists Tom Ferraro, Ed Grout and Ron Bayuzick, follows the installation of two new murals on Cascade Street last year, developed in collaboration with students from Strong Vincent Middle School as part of the Art Force after school project. 

“The lines of the sculpture create movement symbolizing both the waves of the bay and the foliage found along the bluffs. They intersect with the circular shape of the sun shining onto the bay and the OWB neighborhood” -Tom Ferraro, Artist

These works enhance the historic connection between the West Bayfront neighborhoods and the waterfront along Cascade Street.

This project is possible thanks to generous support from former OWB residents Marco and Betsy Monsalve. Special thanks to the Erie-Western PA Port Authority and the City of Erie.

Goal: A Covid-Free OWB!

Two Covid 19 vaccine clinics were held in at the First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant (FPCC) in May/June, resulting in nearly 200 residents getting their vaccines just in time to enjoy the summer. “It is inspiring to see the neighborhood pull together like this to increase Erie’s vaccination rate. The church serves as a familiar gathering place for 12-step groups, Sunday Suppers, community events and Gannon student activities…so it seemed a natural place to offer vaccines,” said Joseph Kumer of the FPCC.

Free Covid-19 testing continues to be available at the Erie MLK Center, 312 Chestnut St., every Thursday.

Thanks to FPCC, Erie MLK Center, UMPC Hamot, Gannon University, and Porky’s Pizzeria for making these clinics a success!

Upcoming Events

Erie Philharmonic Concert Gridley Park | Sunday, June 27 | 3-5 PM, activities start at 2 PM

West BayFit/West BayWalks Bayview Park | Every Wednesday July 7-Aug. 11 | 6-8 PM

Gridley Park National Night Out Tuesday, Aug. 3 | 5-8 PM

PorchFest Saturday, Sept. 25

Eerie Fall Fest Saturday, Oct. 23

Community Thanksgiving Dinner Sunday, Nov. 21

Sign up to Volunteer at any West Bayfront event and get a FREE T-Shirt!

www.surveymonkey.com/r/VolunteerOWB

Lights On OWB!

Through Lights On OWB! we are working with neighborhood groups and residents to make the West Bayfront neighborhoods more welcoming to residents and visitors. OWB is working with neighborhood associations to identify blocks where new lighting and other improvements will benefit neighbors. Through this project, LED sensor bulbs have been distributed to 238 households throughout the community, making it easier for neighbors to walk in the evening hours.

Soon you will see trash cans like the one pictured to the right throughout the neighborhood. Many thanks to the dozens of residents who have volunteered to empty the bins as part of this pilot project! Please contact us at (814) 871-7960 if you are interested in “hosting” a trash can on your block.

This project is made possible thanks to generous support by the Erie Community Foundation, Erie Insurance, and the PA Department of Community and Economic Development.

Bayview Park

Improvements at Bayview Park have continued throughout the spring, and we are ready for a great summer season at the park! New swinging benches have been installed at the top of the bluff, perfect for a sunset view. Lighting on the basketball courts now makes it possible for players to shoot hoops in the evening hours. The ERIE sign at the foot of Cherry Street has become a regional draw and a popular “selfie” spot for those showing their pride in our city.

These improvements are the result of support from individuals and organizations dedicated to our community, including Electrical Mechanical Systems Incorporated, PA DCED, Erie Western-PA Port Authority, City of Erie, Maya Brothers, Inc., BayCrete, Inc. Gene Davis Sales and Service, and JW Architecture and Design.

Garden Box Workshops a Success!

Fifty West Bayfront households will be able to grow fresh produce right in their backyard, thanks to a partnership with the Erie County Department of Health and Feeding Minds and Families, an initiative of Gannon University. Workshops were held at Strong Vincent Middle School on June 2nd and Bayview Park on June 5th to show participants how to plant and care for their new tomato plants.

Did you miss the chance to sign up for these workshops? Please make sure you are receiving emails from OWB – visit www.ourwestbayfront.org to sign up for emails with important neighborhood events and news!

Our West Bayfront has Moved!

On February 5th, OWB officially opened its new community space at 404 West 8th Street, an historic building that has undergone an extensive restoration beginning in 2020. The building, which previously housed Howard’s Photography, was constructed in 1882.

It now provides space for OWB’s office, three residential units, and a second commercial space that is available for lease. As pandemic restrictions lift we look forward to welcoming community members to the space for meetings and events!

Erie Gives Day, Tuesday August 10th

Erie Gives Day is coming up on August 10, 2021 and we could use your support! Please consider making a donation to Our West Bayfront to help us take on projects that improve the quality of life for West Bayfront residents including beautification of vacant lots, park improvements, property renovations, and more!

Visit eriegives.org for more information on how to donate.

Take the 2021 OWB Community Survey

What are the issues on your block and in your neighborhood? We want to hear from you!

Visit www.ourwestbayfront.org/surveys

Every month one participant will win a free gift card to an OWB business!