The Geauga Lake deal is complete.
The City of Aurora’s purchase of the former SeaWorld property, which includes Geauga Lake’s 53 acres as well as 48 acres of lakefront land, officially closed Dec. 20, marking a significant step in the property’s transformation into a public park.
As part of the redevelopment process, the city has been working on conceptual designs and engineering assessments, with hopes to complete the first phase of the park by 2026.
“This project is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the City of Aurora,” Mayor Ann Womer Benjamin said. “We are not only securing lake access for the public, but we are also creating a regional destination that will become a gem of Northeast Ohio. We look forward to turning this vision into a reality and enhancing our community’s quality of life.”
The purchase signals a new era for the once-popular amusement park, which has been an integral part of the region’s history. The future public park will offer a variety of recreational amenities, including a beach, swimming pool, non-motorized boating and more, providing what the city envisions as a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.
“This was an extremely complex real estate transaction, involving a 53-acre lake and land in two municipalities and two counties,” Aurora Law Director Dean DePiero said. “This is a project that will benefit the residents of this community and all of Northeast Ohio for generations to come. After overcoming several legal hurdles, all parties came together to finalize the deal.”
The Bainbridge Township Trustees worked closely with the City of Aurora throughout the negotiations.
“I am thrilled that the purchase of the property at Geauga Lake has been successful, thanks to the combined efforts of the city council, the mayor and the administration,” Aurora City Council President George C. Horvat said. “This collaborative achievement will transform the area into a beautiful green space for our community. The former SeaWorld property has been a cherished part of Aurora’s history, and we are excited to see it continue to bring joy and recreation to our residents.”
The acquisition is being funded with approximately $1.3 million from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, with the remaining balance covered by the city’s general fund.
“This is a legacy purchase for the people of Aurora,” Womer Benjamin said. “Instead of having commercial and residential development, we are preserving a beautiful and memorable lake and adjacent land for the public’s future enjoyment.”
Tom Hardesty is a Portager sports columnist. He was formerly assistant sports editor at the Record-Courier and author of the book Glimpses of Heaven.