Many of us have ridden down the city streets and noticed a street sign, displaying a person’s name in a different color, as an additional title indicating an alternative name for the street. In Cleveland, this is a commitment to honor people and organizations who have greatly impacted the community in a special way through an honorary street dedication.
Renaming streets in Cleveland is not a simple task. It all kicks off with a request typically put forth by a member of the community, an organization or a City Council member. The application needs to lay out why the new name is being suggested and demonstrate how it fits within the city’s guidelines. These guidelines often focus on paying tribute to people who’ve had an influence on society or culture or the local economy.
After submitting an application to the City Planning Commission, the review process involves gathering feedback to confirm community backing and evaluating the effects of the proposed name change or modification. Once approved by the commission the proposal is passed on to City Council for discussion.The ultimate decision is reached through a vote.
Matt Zone, former ward 15 councilman, emphasized the significance, “Naming a street after someone is one of the highest honors our city can bestow. It’s a way of saying, ‘We see you, we value your contributions, and we want your legacy to be remembered by future generations.”
The latest street name dedications
- While not all honorary street naming occasions involve formal ceremonies, plans for ceremonies are often coordinated with community members and organizations associated with the honoree, providing opportunities for reflection and celebration.
Two street dedications honoring the legacies of Pete Leneghan and Father Martin Polito have been announced in Cleveland to commemorate their lasting impact on the community.
Leneghan, owner of Stone Mad Pub, was a beloved local figure known for his dedication to enhancing the city’s cultural landscape. The street honoring his legacy will be on Herman Ave. between W.65th and W. 67th streets. As a long-time advocate of diversity, Leneghan played a significant role in promoting cultural activities and supporting local artists. His contributions have shaped Cleveland’s identity as a vibrant cultural hub, making him a fitting candidate for this honor, Zone said. He emphasized Leneghan’s impact, noting, “Pete was a pillar of the community. His tireless work to uplift local people and bring up the area has left a lasting imprint on the area.”
Pete’s nephew, Bryan Leneghan stated, “Pete was more than an entrepreneur, he was a true visionary, going from a horse buggy driver in New York City and returning to Cleveland to build his legacy bar and community was perfect.” The Pete Leneghan Foundation held its 4th Annual Entrepreneurship Run on Sunday, September 1st. The run helps fund a $10,000 small business grant awarded to an entrepreneur who’s making an impact in Cleveland.
As a spiritual leader for over 30 years at Holy Redeemer Church, Father Martin Polito, affectionately known as Father Marty, has made contributions that have had an impact in Ward 8. In addition to his responsibilities as a guiding light for individuals in Collinwood, he has also been actively engaged in various charitable endeavors aimed at assisting the less fortunate and promoting unity within the community. Councilman Michael D. Polensek praised Father Polito for his role in the community saying he is seen as a moral compass in Cleveland due to his commitment to serving others, and his “genuine care for the people of our city is truly commendable and deserving of acknowledgment.” Father Marty retired this August. The street honoring his legacy is located at Ruple Road near Kipling, and the church will celebrate the commemoration after mass on September 29th.
The process for applying for an honorary street name
- A City Council member must sponsor the honorary naming request.
- A comprehensive biographical summary and documented reasons for the honor are required.
- A petition showing support from at least 70% of property owners on the affected street block must accompany the application.
- Each council member is limited to sponsoring two honorary street designations within a four-year term, ensuring the honors remain prestigious and meaningful.
- Honorary designations last for ten years, maintaining the dynamic and current relevance of street names.
- The sponsoring council member is responsible for funding the production and installation of new signs, which are placed below the official street signs to preserve navigational consistency.
The honorary street naming process in Cleveland serves as a powerful tool for honoring those who have profoundly impacted the city and its residents. Through meticulous procedures and heartfelt community involvement, these honorary designations ensure that the legacies of remarkable individuals and organizations continue to inspire and shape the fabric of Cleveland for years to come.
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