The Committee of the Whole meeting held on July 9, 2025, by the City Council of Cleveland focused on several key issues, primarily concerning the management and funding of brick street restoration projects. The meeting began with a discussion on a new legislative proposal aimed at bidding out specific brick roads to potentially secure better pricing than the existing requirements contract.

The administration clarified that while there is currently no formal red brick street program in place, there are capital funds available that could be allocated towards these projects. Council members were encouraged to submit streets for consideration in the bidding process, with the understanding that not all proposed streets would be addressed immediately. The administration has already prepared bid documents and is optimistic about achieving better pricing through this competitive bidding approach.

A significant point raised during the meeting was the need for maintenance of existing brick streets, particularly in light of upcoming community events, such as the Feast of the Assumption. Council members expressed concerns about the condition of these streets and the importance of ensuring they are safe for public use.

The timeline for receiving cost estimates for the proposed brick street projects was also discussed. While the council members were informed that bids would take a couple of months to process, they were provided with worst-case estimates based on the current requirements contract. This information would allow council members to make informed decisions regarding the allocation of funds for street repairs.

Several council members proposed amendments to the legislation, adding specific streets to the list for bidding. The amendments were discussed and subsequently approved, allowing for a more comprehensive approach to the restoration of brick streets across various wards.

In addition to the brick street discussions, the council addressed the ongoing Lee Road improvement project. The administration reported that this project, which has been in development for several years, is now estimated to cost $21 million. The project will be managed by Cuyahoga County, ensuring a coordinated effort between Cleveland and Shaker Heights for the design and construction phases.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing the condition of brick streets and improving infrastructure while navigating funding challenges and community needs. The next steps involve finalizing the list of streets for bidding and continuing to monitor the progress of the Lee Road project.