Ohio families now have a new gateway to the Cuyahoga River thanks to the recent conversion of the former Brandywine Golf Course into Oxbow Meadows, a 45‑acre parcel within the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park, a nonprofit partner of the National Park Service, acquired the entire 213‑acre property in 2021, kept 15 acres for its own use and transferred the remaining 198 acres to the park.
From Golf Greens to River Views
For decades the view of the park’s three signature attractions – the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, the Towpath Trail and the Cuyahoga River – was hidden behind the fairways of Brandywine Golf Course. In late August 2026, park officials led a guided tour of the newly opened Oxbow Meadows, showing visitors the restored meadow, newly seeded paths and a striking overlook known as “the Perch.” From that high point, the river is visible in all its restored glory.
Community‑Driven Planning
Before breaking ground, the Conservancy held listening sessions, surveys and public open houses. Residents repeatedly asked for more river access, and the nonprofit responded by designing Oxbow Meadows to include a kayak landing, accessible trails, outdoor seating, overlooks and even cabins for rent. The centerpiece will be a river‑center – a modest building with glass walls that will house a restaurant, retail space, conference rooms and a lounge, creating a true community hub on the water’s edge.
Environmental Restoration
Decades of herbicide and fungicide use on the golf course left the soil contaminated with mercury. A remediation effort completed in September 2024 removed the polluted soil and reseeded the land. Today, the meadow is lush, Adirondack chairs replace former golf carts, and river otters can be seen along the banks.
Reconnecting Families with the River
Park Ranger Ryan Ainger explained that the Cuyahoga River, once infamous for fires and pollution, is now a 100‑mile state water trail, with 26 miles flowing through the national park. Oxbow Meadows will add a much‑needed access point, allowing families to walk, run, fish or paddle without the “single‑use” limitations of earlier sites.
Looking Ahead
Landscape firm Studio Zewde is overseeing the schematic design phase. If fundraising proceeds as planned, construction of parking, trails and overlooks could begin next year, followed by the river‑center. The project reflects a broader park mission: to bring the water closer to the people who live, work and worship nearby.
“We want this to be a really special place where you can see the story of industry, reclamation and community without having to be told it,” said Greg Peckham, president and CEO of the Conservancy, during the tour. His sentiment captures the spirit of a project that honors Ohio’s natural heritage while providing a wholesome, family‑friendly recreation space for generations to come.
Original reporting: Signal Akron — read the source article.
