Committee approves renaming Hermann Park for Judge Raymond L. Pianca upon park renovations

Summary

Committee approved an emergency ordinance that would rename Hermann Park to Judge Raymond L. Pianca Park after capital improvements are completed. Sponsor Councilwoman Spencer said the renaming would take effect only upon completion of park renovations and noted an active public‑private fundraising effort.

The committee approved Ordinance 1307‑2025, which changes the name of Hermann Park (Herman Avenue and W. 59th Street) to Judge Raymond L. Pianca Park once planned park renovations and site improvements are completed.

Councilwoman Stephanie Spencer, sponsor of the ordinance, described Judge Pianca’s long public service, including his role as the founding judge of Cleveland Housing Court, and said the item is intended as a marker that the city will use when the park improvements proceed. Staff said capital improvements have not yet been scheduled but that a public‑private partnership is assembling funding.

The committee approved the ordinance by voice vote.