CPC Weblog
an annotated chronological list of links related to planning and development in Greater Cleveland
27 August 2008
2007 American Community Survey
Yesterday, the U.S. Census Bureau released annual income, poverty, and health insurance coverage statistics from the 2007 American Community Survey. In Cuyahoga County, the median household income grew from $41,522 in 2006 to $44,358 in 2007 (a 6.8% increase), while the poverty rate rose from 14.8% to 15.5% (a 4.7% increase). The City of Cleveland's poverty rate also rose, from 27.0% in 2006 to 29.5% in 2007, the nation's second-highest figure among big cities. Detroit had the highest poverty rate for the second consecutive year.
Yesterday, the U.S. Census Bureau released annual income, poverty, and health insurance coverage statistics from the 2007 American Community Survey. In Cuyahoga County, the median household income grew from $41,522 in 2006 to $44,358 in 2007 (a 6.8% increase), while the poverty rate rose from 14.8% to 15.5% (a 4.7% increase). The City of Cleveland's poverty rate also rose, from 27.0% in 2006 to 29.5% in 2007, the nation's second-highest figure among big cities. Detroit had the highest poverty rate for the second consecutive year.
Labels: Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, demographics, equity planning, United States
Slope subsidence near Riverview Tower
Local government agencies are collaborating to address the slope instability problems along the Cuyahoga River at Irishtown Bend in Cleveland.
Local government agencies are collaborating to address the slope instability problems along the Cuyahoga River at Irishtown Bend in Cleveland.
Labels: Cleveland, Cuyahoga River watershed, utility
Medical Mart forums
Commissioner Jones scheduled two public forums to discuss the Medical Mart and convention center plans. The first will be held on September 2 at the Cleveland Heights Community Center, and the second will be on September 4 at the Middleburg Heights Community Center.
Commissioner Jones scheduled two public forums to discuss the Medical Mart and convention center plans. The first will be held on September 2 at the Cleveland Heights Community Center, and the second will be on September 4 at the Middleburg Heights Community Center.
Labels: Cleveland Heights, Cuyahoga County, Downtown Cleveland, economic development, events, institutional, Middleburg Heights
Big Creek Trail and Neighborhood Connector Plan
Several potential routes have been identified for the planned Big Creek Trail and Neighborhood Connector, and residents are invited to provide input about the proposals at a public meeting this evening in Brooklyn City Hall. The greenway would link the Cleveland Metroparks Big Creek and Brookside Reservations by running through Parma, Brooklyn, and Cleveland.
Several potential routes have been identified for the planned Big Creek Trail and Neighborhood Connector, and residents are invited to provide input about the proposals at a public meeting this evening in Brooklyn City Hall. The greenway would link the Cleveland Metroparks Big Creek and Brookside Reservations by running through Parma, Brooklyn, and Cleveland.
Labels: alternative transportation, Brooklyn, Cleveland west side, events, Parma
25 August 2008
Downtown Cleveland demolition
Demolition of the former bank building adjacent to the 668 Euclid building in downtown Cleveland is now underway.
Demolition of the former bank building adjacent to the 668 Euclid building in downtown Cleveland is now underway.
Labels: Downtown Cleveland, residential
Cities rethink drilling plans
While natural gas and oil wells can be lucrative, their drawbacks have led several suburbs to reconsider plans to drill on public lands.
While natural gas and oil wells can be lucrative, their drawbacks have led several suburbs to reconsider plans to drill on public lands.
Labels: Greater Cleveland, utility
Stern's Lakewood Public Library critiqued
Steven Litt of the Plain Dealer critiqued the new Lakewood Public Library. He feels that architect Robert A.M. Stern's neoclassical building "is convincing in many ways, and full of passionate conviction. It's also emotionally cool to a fault and strangely anachronistic, as if the building could have been built 60 to 100 years ago." Construction was completed earlier this year, and the library was rededicated in June.
Steven Litt of the Plain Dealer critiqued the new Lakewood Public Library. He feels that architect Robert A.M. Stern's neoclassical building "is convincing in many ways, and full of passionate conviction. It's also emotionally cool to a fault and strangely anachronistic, as if the building could have been built 60 to 100 years ago." Construction was completed earlier this year, and the library was rededicated in June.
Labels: architecture, institutional, Lakewood
Project 2008: interPLAY
The Cleveland Design Competition announced its second annual competition. "Project 2008: interPLAY challenges entrants to propose active and passive recreation along an existing multipurpose path that connects Cleveland's west side neighborhoods to Edgewater Park and Lake Erie."
The Cleveland Design Competition announced its second annual competition. "Project 2008: interPLAY challenges entrants to propose active and passive recreation along an existing multipurpose path that connects Cleveland's west side neighborhoods to Edgewater Park and Lake Erie."
Labels: Cleveland west side, urban design
Cities fighting abandonment
Developer profiled the efforts of five cities, including Cleveland, to revive neighborhoods damaged by foreclosures and abandonment. Some signs indicate that the housing market may be improving, as Greater Cleveland led the nation for home price gains in April and May.
(via Planetizen)
Developer profiled the efforts of five cities, including Cleveland, to revive neighborhoods damaged by foreclosures and abandonment. Some signs indicate that the housing market may be improving, as Greater Cleveland led the nation for home price gains in April and May.
(via Planetizen)
Labels: Cleveland, finance, Greater Cleveland, residential
22 August 2008
Columbus Road Bridge closed
The City of Cleveland closed the Columbus Road Lift Bridge in the Flats for at least two months for repairs. In the long term, rebuilding or replacing the bridge could cost more than $31 million. The Cuyahoga County Engineer's office will hold an open house Wednesday at St. Malachi Church in Cleveland to hear opinions from the public.
The City of Cleveland closed the Columbus Road Lift Bridge in the Flats for at least two months for repairs. In the long term, rebuilding or replacing the bridge could cost more than $31 million. The Cuyahoga County Engineer's office will hold an open house Wednesday at St. Malachi Church in Cleveland to hear opinions from the public.
Labels: Downtown Cleveland, events, roads and highways
Committee proposes expanded Federation presence
Supporters of a downtown headquarters for the Jewish Community Federation proposed an expansion its downtown offices into a campus as an alternative to the proposal to move the headquarters to Beachwood.
Supporters of a downtown headquarters for the Jewish Community Federation proposed an expansion its downtown offices into a campus as an alternative to the proposal to move the headquarters to Beachwood.
Labels: Beachwood, Downtown Cleveland, institutional, urban sprawl
Geauga Lake sale may be pushed back
Cedar Fair may postpone the sale of large portions of the former Geauga Lake site because the company feels that the offers for the land are too low. The delay could provide more time for the roller coaster enthusiasts seeking to preserve the Big Dipper.
Cedar Fair may postpone the sale of large portions of the former Geauga Lake site because the company feels that the offers for the land are too low. The delay could provide more time for the roller coaster enthusiasts seeking to preserve the Big Dipper.
Labels: Geauga County, greenspace, historic preservation, Portage County, urban sprawl
Avon Planning Commission approves plans
The Avon Planning Commission approved plans for the planned new YMCA and for Heritage Village, a 79,000 square foot shopping center proposed for Detroit Road.
The Avon Planning Commission approved plans for the planned new YMCA and for Heritage Village, a 79,000 square foot shopping center proposed for Detroit Road.
Labels: institutional, Lorain County, retail, urban sprawl
Rockefeller Park and the Cleveland Cultural Gardens
Walk+Roll Cleveland's signature event will be held on Sunday in Cleveland's Rockefeller Park, and provides an opportunity to reflect on the renewed interest in the park's Cultural Gardens. Steven Litt is encouraged by the recent activity, but feels that the park and gardens "need to be re-envisioned". ParkWorks and University Circle Incorporated are engaged in a strategic planning process to improve the park.
Walk+Roll Cleveland's signature event will be held on Sunday in Cleveland's Rockefeller Park, and provides an opportunity to reflect on the renewed interest in the park's Cultural Gardens. Steven Litt is encouraged by the recent activity, but feels that the park and gardens "need to be re-envisioned". ParkWorks and University Circle Incorporated are engaged in a strategic planning process to improve the park.
Labels: alternative transportation, Cleveland east side, greenspace
Wetlands at proposed Clinic site
At a public meeting on Wednesday, Ohio EPA staff expressed "significant concerns" about the Cleveland Clinic's plans to build a new medical campus in Twinsburg. The 86 acre site includes 23.5 acres of wetlands, and the Clinic's plans call for filling in a portion of them. The two sides are in negotiations to resolve the EPA's concerns.
At a public meeting on Wednesday, Ohio EPA staff expressed "significant concerns" about the Cleveland Clinic's plans to build a new medical campus in Twinsburg. The 86 acre site includes 23.5 acres of wetlands, and the Clinic's plans call for filling in a portion of them. The two sides are in negotiations to resolve the EPA's concerns.
Labels: Chagrin River watershed, institutional, Summit County
Central Park heads to the ballot
Solon City Council unanimously voted to place the proposed Central Park development on the November ballot, combining the mixed-use zoning classification and rezoning proposals into a single issue. At the City Council meeting, about 50% of the residents who spoke favored the project, down from 75% at a meeting earlier this month. Opponents of the project have organized under the name No Central Park. Meanwhile, the Coral Co. offered a revised road improvement plan that includes a new four-lane connector road.
Solon City Council unanimously voted to place the proposed Central Park development on the November ballot, combining the mixed-use zoning classification and rezoning proposals into a single issue. At the City Council meeting, about 50% of the residents who spoke favored the project, down from 75% at a meeting earlier this month. Opponents of the project have organized under the name No Central Park. Meanwhile, the Coral Co. offered a revised road improvement plan that includes a new four-lane connector road.
Labels: mixed-use, roads and highways, Solon, zoning
Greenbriar Crossing TIF
Parma Heights City Council passed a tax increment financing agreement for the Greenbriar Crossing development at West 130th Street and Pearl Road. The agreement also requires the approval of the Parma Board of Education.
Parma Heights City Council passed a tax increment financing agreement for the Greenbriar Crossing development at West 130th Street and Pearl Road. The agreement also requires the approval of the Parma Board of Education.
Labels: Parma Heights, residential, retail, tax policy
Lookalike homes in solon
Gross Builders is seeking permission to build more lookalike homes than normally allowed at its Carrington Court senior housing development in Solon.
Gross Builders is seeking permission to build more lookalike homes than normally allowed at its Carrington Court senior housing development in Solon.
Labels: architecture, residential, seniors, Solon
Home inspections in Orange
Orange Village Council is considering legislation that would institute residential point-of-sale inspections.
Orange Village Council is considering legislation that would institute residential point-of-sale inspections.
Labels: Orange, residential
More residential development proposed in North Ridgeville
Some residents and leaders in North Ridgeville object to a pair of proposals from developers who want to build around 900 units of housing on the City's south side.
Some residents and leaders in North Ridgeville object to a pair of proposals from developers who want to build around 900 units of housing on the City's south side.
Labels: Lorain County, residential, urban sprawl
Solar gets one ballot issue
Solon City Council agreed to place one of the two Solar Shopping Center rezoning proposals on the November ballot. An office to retail rezoning issue for a 3.4 acre parcel on SOM Center Road will appear on the ballot, but a similar issue for a 2.6 acre parcel on Aurora Road will not.
Solon City Council agreed to place one of the two Solar Shopping Center rezoning proposals on the November ballot. An office to retail rezoning issue for a 3.4 acre parcel on SOM Center Road will appear on the ballot, but a similar issue for a 2.6 acre parcel on Aurora Road will not.
Joe Calabrese to speak
RTA's Joe Calabrese will speak at the City Club on August 29 about "the many challenges facing the public transit industry during a climate of increased ridership, both locally and nationally."
RTA's Joe Calabrese will speak at the City Club on August 29 about "the many challenges facing the public transit industry during a climate of increased ridership, both locally and nationally."
Labels: Cuyahoga County, Downtown Cleveland, events, public transit
Ivex Mill sale completed
Alcoa completed the sale of the Ivex Paper Mill complex in Chagrin Falls to a group of local developers for $400,000. They plan to renovate as many of its 28 buildings as they can.
Alcoa completed the sale of the Ivex Paper Mill complex in Chagrin Falls to a group of local developers for $400,000. They plan to renovate as many of its 28 buildings as they can.
Labels: Chagrin Falls, historic preservation, mixed-use
20 August 2008
RTA to delay drastic cuts
RTA leaders anticipate that the expected infusion of funds from NOACA will eliminate the need for major service cuts in the short term. The agency is now planning modest cuts and a fuel surcharge of 25¢ in place of the 50¢ surcharge proposed earlier. RTA will revisit the cuts next year if the state budget does not include increased funding for public transportation.
Update: Medina County Commissioner Stephen Hambley wants to see a greater percentage of the dollars allocated to the public transit agencies of Geauga, Lake, Lorain, and Medina counties.
RTA leaders anticipate that the expected infusion of funds from NOACA will eliminate the need for major service cuts in the short term. The agency is now planning modest cuts and a fuel surcharge of 25¢ in place of the 50¢ surcharge proposed earlier. RTA will revisit the cuts next year if the state budget does not include increased funding for public transportation.
Update: Medina County Commissioner Stephen Hambley wants to see a greater percentage of the dollars allocated to the public transit agencies of Geauga, Lake, Lorain, and Medina counties.
Labels: Cuyahoga County, grants and appropriations, public transit
Greater Cleveland in nonattainment
The U.S. EPA released a list of counties it plans to designate as nonattainment areas under new fine particle air pollution regulations. It includes Cuyahoga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage, and Summit counties. Most Greater Cleveland counties failed to comply with older, less strict standards, so the announcement was not a surprise. The EPA plans to make final designation decisions by December 18.
The U.S. EPA released a list of counties it plans to designate as nonattainment areas under new fine particle air pollution regulations. It includes Cuyahoga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage, and Summit counties. Most Greater Cleveland counties failed to comply with older, less strict standards, so the announcement was not a surprise. The EPA plans to make final designation decisions by December 18.
Labels: air, Greater Cleveland
Convention center site negotiations
Forest City Enterprises executives indicated that they do not intend to drastically drop their $40 million asking price for land at Tower City Center for the planned new convention center. Cuyahoga County leaders deemed the price unacceptable, but hope to reach a compromise.
Forest City Enterprises executives indicated that they do not intend to drastically drop their $40 million asking price for land at Tower City Center for the planned new convention center. Cuyahoga County leaders deemed the price unacceptable, but hope to reach a compromise.
Labels: Downtown Cleveland, economic development, institutional
Possible sale of Acacia Country Club
Members of Acacia Country Club in Lyndhurst are considering whether to dissolve the club and sell its 160 acre site for development. Brokers speculate that the property at Cedar and Richmond Roads could be sold off in parts for residential, retail, and office construction.
Members of Acacia Country Club in Lyndhurst are considering whether to dissolve the club and sell its 160 acre site for development. Brokers speculate that the property at Cedar and Richmond Roads could be sold off in parts for residential, retail, and office construction.
Labels: greenspace, Lyndhurst
Municipalities support regionalism study
The Northeast Ohio Mayors and City Managers Association is preparing to move into the second phase of the Regional Economic Revenue Study. The City of Hudson and the Village of Richfield will apply for funding from Ohio's Local Government Services and Regional Collaboration Grant Program to support the study.
The Northeast Ohio Mayors and City Managers Association is preparing to move into the second phase of the Regional Economic Revenue Study. The City of Hudson and the Village of Richfield will apply for funding from Ohio's Local Government Services and Regional Collaboration Grant Program to support the study.
Labels: grants and appropriations, Greater Cleveland, regionalism
2008 Cleveland Planning and Zoning Workshop
The 20th Annual OPC Cleveland Planning and Zoning Workshop (PDF) will be held on November 14 at LaCentre Conference and Banquet Facility in Westlake. Online registration is available.
The 20th Annual OPC Cleveland Planning and Zoning Workshop (PDF) will be held on November 14 at LaCentre Conference and Banquet Facility in Westlake. Online registration is available.
Groundbreaking ceremony for new CSU building
Cleveland State University broke ground today for its new College of Education and Human Services building on Euclid Avenue. The 97,000 square foot building is scheduled to open in 2010.
Update: WTAM has more details.
Cleveland State University broke ground today for its new College of Education and Human Services building on Euclid Avenue. The 97,000 square foot building is scheduled to open in 2010.
Update: WTAM has more details.
Labels: Downtown Cleveland, institutional
Streetsboro picks Bird Houk
The Streetsboro Master Plan Commission recommended selecting Bird Houk Collaborative of Gahanna to prepare the City's new master plan. The firm proposed a five phase process that would take ten months to complete.
The Streetsboro Master Plan Commission recommended selecting Bird Houk Collaborative of Gahanna to prepare the City's new master plan. The firm proposed a five phase process that would take ten months to complete.
Labels: master planning, Portage County
18 August 2008
Courthouse Plaza
A local development group is trying to revive interest in plans for the Courthouse Plaza high-rise in downtown Cleveland. The tower was first proposed in 1999, but there has been little news since backer Larry Dolan pulled out in 2001.
A local development group is trying to revive interest in plans for the Courthouse Plaza high-rise in downtown Cleveland. The tower was first proposed in 1999, but there has been little news since backer Larry Dolan pulled out in 2001.
Labels: Downtown Cleveland, office
CHUBs to be installed
The green bulkheads project will proceed this week with the installation of up to 400 plant pockets in the Cuyahoga River navigation channel.
The green bulkheads project will proceed this week with the installation of up to 400 plant pockets in the Cuyahoga River navigation channel.
Labels: Cleveland, Cuyahoga River watershed, sustainability
New NEORSD incinerators?
The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District may replace the incinerators at the Southerly Wastewater Treatment Plant in Cuyahoga Heights. Burning biosolids in the new incinerators would generate enough electricity to make the incineration a carbon neutral operation. A blue ribbon panel will present an official report later this month.
The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District may replace the incinerators at the Southerly Wastewater Treatment Plant in Cuyahoga Heights. Burning biosolids in the new incinerators would generate enough electricity to make the incineration a carbon neutral operation. A blue ribbon panel will present an official report later this month.
Labels: Cuyahoga Heights, sustainability, utility
Cedar Center investments
The planned redevelopment of the South Euclid side of Cedar Center will require public investment, thought the precise cost has yet to be established. The Cuyahoga County Department of Development is assisting the City with the environmental cleanup of the property.
The planned redevelopment of the South Euclid side of Cedar Center will require public investment, thought the precise cost has yet to be established. The Cuyahoga County Department of Development is assisting the City with the environmental cleanup of the property.
Labels: land, mixed-use, retail, South Euclid
CMAQ funds for RTA
Two NOACA committees will recommend allocating $10.5 million in federal funds to the area's five public transit agencies. RTA is expected to receive the bulk of the money. A Plain Dealer editorial says that Ohio leaders must find a long-term solution to public transit's fiscal crisis.
Two NOACA committees will recommend allocating $10.5 million in federal funds to the area's five public transit agencies. RTA is expected to receive the bulk of the money. A Plain Dealer editorial says that Ohio leaders must find a long-term solution to public transit's fiscal crisis.
Labels: grants and appropriations, Greater Cleveland, public transit
North Randall suffers
The Village of North Randall is facing financial adversity caused by the decline of its commercial areas. It was designated a situational distressed community and is receiving assistance from the the Cuyahoga County Sheriff's Office. If conditions do not improve, the Village may need to merge into a neighboring community.
The Village of North Randall is facing financial adversity caused by the decline of its commercial areas. It was designated a situational distressed community and is receiving assistance from the the Cuyahoga County Sheriff's Office. If conditions do not improve, the Village may need to merge into a neighboring community.
Labels: North Randall, retail
County land purchase scrutinized
The Plain Dealer examined Cuyahoga County's purchase of the site for the new juvenile justice center in Fairfax and the events that led up to it. County Commissioners purchased the site in 2000 from a subsidiary of Forest City Enterprises for $2.75 million.
The Plain Dealer examined Cuyahoga County's purchase of the site for the new juvenile justice center in Fairfax and the events that led up to it. County Commissioners purchased the site in 2000 from a subsidiary of Forest City Enterprises for $2.75 million.
Labels: Cleveland east side, institutional, land
15 August 2008
Sustainable Stormwater Management Workshop
A two day Sustainable Stormwater Management Workshop will take place at the Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative on September 4 and 5. It will be led by Joachim T. Tourbier of the Dresden University of Technology. Enrollment (PDF) in the workshop is limited to 18 participants.
A two day Sustainable Stormwater Management Workshop will take place at the Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative on September 4 and 5. It will be led by Joachim T. Tourbier of the Dresden University of Technology. Enrollment (PDF) in the workshop is limited to 18 participants.
Labels: events, sustainability, utility
Lake Erie coastal management policies
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources will hold three public meetings in September about proposed changes to the policies regulating development along the Lake Erie coastline. The Cuyahoga County meeting will be held on September 18 at the Don Umerley Civic Center in Rocky River.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources will hold three public meetings in September about proposed changes to the policies regulating development along the Lake Erie coastline. The Cuyahoga County meeting will be held on September 18 at the Don Umerley Civic Center in Rocky River.
Labels: events, greenspace, Lake Erie, Ohio
Central Park zoning issues
On Monday, Solon City Council is expected to place two zoning issues that would permit the construction of Central Park on the November ballot. The first would create a new mixed-use zoning classification (PDF), and the second would place the 90 acre site of the proposed development into the new district. Meanwhile, opponents of the development have begun to organize.
On Monday, Solon City Council is expected to place two zoning issues that would permit the construction of Central Park on the November ballot. The first would create a new mixed-use zoning classification (PDF), and the second would place the 90 acre site of the proposed development into the new district. Meanwhile, opponents of the development have begun to organize.
Joint fire district update
Backers of the proposed seven city regional fire district are waiting for leaders in the southwest Cuyahoga County communities to decide if they want to continue their participation. The City of Berea may opt out of the process, which could affect the involvement of Olmsted Falls.
Backers of the proposed seven city regional fire district are waiting for leaders in the southwest Cuyahoga County communities to decide if they want to continue their participation. The City of Berea may opt out of the process, which could affect the involvement of Olmsted Falls.
Labels: Berea, Cuyahoga County, Olmsted Falls, regionalism
Francis Court Gables
The Francis Court Gables townhouses in South Euclid are not selling well, and only one building has been constructed. Developer Jim Teresi wants the City to adopt a residential tax abatement measure. In addition, the proposed Stoneridge Place subdivision and Liberty Court condominiums are on indefinite hold.
The Francis Court Gables townhouses in South Euclid are not selling well, and only one building has been constructed. Developer Jim Teresi wants the City to adopt a residential tax abatement measure. In addition, the proposed Stoneridge Place subdivision and Liberty Court condominiums are on indefinite hold.
Labels: residential, South Euclid, tax policy
Renaissance Park construction
Demolition of the structures at Pearl and Whitney Roads in Strongsville is underway, and an expansion of the Renaissance Park shopping center will be built on the site. The first 6,200 square foot building in the 125,000 square foot development (PDF) will open in April.
Demolition of the structures at Pearl and Whitney Roads in Strongsville is underway, and an expansion of the Renaissance Park shopping center will be built on the site. The first 6,200 square foot building in the 125,000 square foot development (PDF) will open in April.
Labels: retail, Strongsville
Reuse of the General Chemical site
The Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District may build a recycling center on the 55 acre former General Chemical site in Garfield Heights and Cuyahoga Heights. A portion of the brownfield site would become a park which would include the planned Mill Creek trail.
The Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District may build a recycling center on the 55 acre former General Chemical site in Garfield Heights and Cuyahoga Heights. A portion of the brownfield site would become a park which would include the planned Mill Creek trail.
Labels: Cuyahoga Heights, Garfield Heights, industrial, land, sustainability
CPP waste-to-energy study
Consultants for Cleveland Public Power are conducting a feasibility study on the potential for establishing a waste-to-energy facility at the Ridge Road Transfer Station.
Consultants for Cleveland Public Power are conducting a feasibility study on the potential for establishing a waste-to-energy facility at the Ridge Road Transfer Station.
Labels: Cleveland west side, sustainability, utility
Senior housing survey
Independence leaders are surveying seniors to learn about their housing needs in order to develop a plan for senior housing in the downtown district.
Independence leaders are surveying seniors to learn about their housing needs in order to develop a plan for senior housing in the downtown district.
Labels: Independence, mixed-use, residential, seniors
Clark-Metro denied funding
The Clark-Metro Community Development Corporation is trying to reinvent itself as a provider of social services, and will no longer focus on community development activities.
The Clark-Metro Community Development Corporation is trying to reinvent itself as a provider of social services, and will no longer focus on community development activities.
Labels: Cleveland west side
Historic house demolitions in Twinsburg
The Twinsburg Architectural Review Board is concerned about the increasing number of historic homes that have been allowed to fall into disrepair and subsequently demolished. Earlier this year, the City discontinued a home repair loan program.
The Twinsburg Architectural Review Board is concerned about the increasing number of historic homes that have been allowed to fall into disrepair and subsequently demolished. Earlier this year, the City discontinued a home repair loan program.
Labels: historic preservation, residential, Summit County
14 August 2008
RTA delays decision on cuts
RTA leaders postponed a decision on proposed service reductions and fare hikes until next month. Unallocated local CMAQ funding may be diverted to RTA to help reduce the need for cuts.
RTA leaders postponed a decision on proposed service reductions and fare hikes until next month. Unallocated local CMAQ funding may be diverted to RTA to help reduce the need for cuts.
Labels: Cuyahoga County, public transit
Racial diversity grows
U.S. Census Bureau population estimates by age, sex, race, and Hispanic origin indicate that between 2000 and 2007, Cuyahoga County's Asian population increased by 4,766 and its Latino population increased by 5,882, while the white population declined by 95,307 and the black population declined by 7,006. Nationwide, racial and ethnic minorities now comprise 43% of Americans under 20. The Census Bureau also projects that minorities will account for over half of the country's total population by 2042.
U.S. Census Bureau population estimates by age, sex, race, and Hispanic origin indicate that between 2000 and 2007, Cuyahoga County's Asian population increased by 4,766 and its Latino population increased by 5,882, while the white population declined by 95,307 and the black population declined by 7,006. Nationwide, racial and ethnic minorities now comprise 43% of Americans under 20. The Census Bureau also projects that minorities will account for over half of the country's total population by 2042.
Labels: Cuyahoga County, demographics, United States
Americans driving less
The Federal Highway Administration released data showing that Americans drove less for the eighth straight month, driving 12.2 billion fewer miles (a 4.7% decrease) in June 2008 than in June 2007. Ohio drivers reduced their travel by 442 million miles (4.6%) over the same period.
The Federal Highway Administration released data showing that Americans drove less for the eighth straight month, driving 12.2 billion fewer miles (a 4.7% decrease) in June 2008 than in June 2007. Ohio drivers reduced their travel by 442 million miles (4.6%) over the same period.
Labels: Ohio, roads and highways, United States
Velodrome site to be named
The nonprofit Fast Track Cycling will select a Northeast Ohio location for its proposed velodrome today. Once the location is named, the group will begin a capital campaign to raise funding for the $10 million project.
The nonprofit Fast Track Cycling will select a Northeast Ohio location for its proposed velodrome today. Once the location is named, the group will begin a capital campaign to raise funding for the $10 million project.
Labels: Cuyahoga County
13 August 2008
New downtown tours
CityProwl has been updated with new audio walking tours of the Warehouse District, downtown Cleveland's bank lobbies, and Public Square.
CityProwl has been updated with new audio walking tours of the Warehouse District, downtown Cleveland's bank lobbies, and Public Square.
Labels: Downtown Cleveland, websites
More on the Cleveland billboard debate
In this week's Scene, Michael Gill explores the controversy over the proposed changes to Cleveland's billboard rules and relates the struggle of an Old Brooklyn restaurant owner to remove one billboard.
In this week's Scene, Michael Gill explores the controversy over the proposed changes to Cleveland's billboard rules and relates the struggle of an Old Brooklyn restaurant owner to remove one billboard.
Round 2 historic tax credits
The Ohio Department of Development will announce additional historic preservation tax credit awards before the end of September. Changes to the rules place a greater emphasis on the potential economic benefits of redevelopment and a more equitable distribution across the state. A large percentage of the round one awards went to projects in Cleveland.
The Ohio Department of Development will announce additional historic preservation tax credit awards before the end of September. Changes to the rules place a greater emphasis on the potential economic benefits of redevelopment and a more equitable distribution across the state. A large percentage of the round one awards went to projects in Cleveland.
Labels: historic preservation, Ohio, tax policy
Walking the River
Walking the River (PDF), a new documentary about the Cuyahoga River from Blue Hole Productions, will premiere on August 15 at the Happy Days Lodge in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. WVIZ plans to broadcast the film this fall.
Update: WKSU interviewed the filmmakers.
Walking the River (PDF), a new documentary about the Cuyahoga River from Blue Hole Productions, will premiere on August 15 at the Happy Days Lodge in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. WVIZ plans to broadcast the film this fall.
Update: WKSU interviewed the filmmakers.
Labels: Cuyahoga River watershed, events, Summit County
The Blade on the Euclid Corridor
Officials in Toledo are among those looking at the Euclid Corridor project as an example of how to implement a bus rapid transit line.
Officials in Toledo are among those looking at the Euclid Corridor project as an example of how to implement a bus rapid transit line.
Labels: Cleveland, public transit
Flats east bank construction
WKYC describes the early phases of the Flats east bank construction process.
WKYC describes the early phases of the Flats east bank construction process.
Labels: Downtown Cleveland, mixed-use
11 August 2008
Medical Mart announcement reactions
The Plain Dealer breaks down the new projected $536 million price tag for building the Medical Mart and convention center, while Roldo Bartimole says that it will cost closer to $1 billion. A Plain Dealer editorial supports the Greater Cleveland Partnership's selection of the Tower City site, but Steven Litt has several concerns about the plans and process. Meanwhile, Positively Cleveland leaders are unhappy about the proposal to divert the bureau's funding for the construction.
The Plain Dealer breaks down the new projected $536 million price tag for building the Medical Mart and convention center, while Roldo Bartimole says that it will cost closer to $1 billion. A Plain Dealer editorial supports the Greater Cleveland Partnership's selection of the Tower City site, but Steven Litt has several concerns about the plans and process. Meanwhile, Positively Cleveland leaders are unhappy about the proposal to divert the bureau's funding for the construction.
Labels: Downtown Cleveland, economic development, institutional
Proposed Waterfront Line cuts
While many are upset over RTA's plans to increase fares and reduce bus service, its plans to cut service hours on the Waterfont Line have generated few complaints. RTA officials will revisit its schedule when parts of the Flats east bank development are finished.
While many are upset over RTA's plans to increase fares and reduce bus service, its plans to cut service hours on the Waterfont Line have generated few complaints. RTA officials will revisit its schedule when parts of the Flats east bank development are finished.
Labels: Cuyahoga County, Downtown Cleveland, public transit, rail
CVSR's Bike Aboard Flagstop Service
The National Park Service is working to reduce automobile traffic in its parks. In the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad's Bike Aboard service has tripled in popularity this summer. It offers cyclists the opportunity to bike the Towpath Trail in one direction and ride the train in the other for a $2 fare.
The National Park Service is working to reduce automobile traffic in its parks. In the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad's Bike Aboard service has tripled in popularity this summer. It offers cyclists the opportunity to bike the Towpath Trail in one direction and ride the train in the other for a $2 fare.
Labels: alternative transportation, Cuyahoga County, greenspace, rail, Summit County, sustainability
Fifth Church of Christ Scientist plans
Although earlier plans to rehabilitate the landmark Fifth Church of Christ Scientist on West 117th Street fell through, Cleveland officials now plan to incorporate the building into a mixed-use redevelopment of its entire block.
Although earlier plans to rehabilitate the landmark Fifth Church of Christ Scientist on West 117th Street fell through, Cleveland officials now plan to incorporate the building into a mixed-use redevelopment of its entire block.
Labels: Cleveland west side, historic preservation, mixed-use
History of Moreland Courts
The Plain Dealer continues its "Elegant Cleveland" series with a piece on the history of the Moreland Courts towers near Shaker Square.
The Plain Dealer continues its "Elegant Cleveland" series with a piece on the history of the Moreland Courts towers near Shaker Square.
Labels: Cleveland east side, residential, Shaker Heights
08 August 2008
GCP suggests Tower City site
As expected, the Greater Cleveland Partnership's site selection committee yesterday recommended locating the planned new convention center and Medical Mart on a riverfront site at Tower City Center in downtown Cleveland. The committee estimated that construction costs at the Tower City site would be $536 million and that the costs at the Mall site would be $583 million. Because the expense would be in excess of the County's $400 million budget, the committee offered suggestions for covering the funding gap. They predicted that the County's sales tax increase will bring in $90 million more than initially projected, and also suggested raising or redirecting the county bed tax. The Cuyahoga County Commissioners hope to make a decision this fall.
As expected, the Greater Cleveland Partnership's site selection committee yesterday recommended locating the planned new convention center and Medical Mart on a riverfront site at Tower City Center in downtown Cleveland. The committee estimated that construction costs at the Tower City site would be $536 million and that the costs at the Mall site would be $583 million. Because the expense would be in excess of the County's $400 million budget, the committee offered suggestions for covering the funding gap. They predicted that the County's sales tax increase will bring in $90 million more than initially projected, and also suggested raising or redirecting the county bed tax. The Cuyahoga County Commissioners hope to make a decision this fall.
Labels: Downtown Cleveland, economic development, institutional
JCF Downtown Dialogues
A pair of Downtown Dialogues were held on Wednesday and Thursday evenings about "the future of Jewish life downtown" and the "priorities for reaching that vision." The Jewish Community Federation is contemplating a move from its downtown Cleveland headquarters to Beachwood, an option opposed by an ad hoc group of Jewish citizens. Steven Litt also feels that its headquarters should remain downtown.
A pair of Downtown Dialogues were held on Wednesday and Thursday evenings about "the future of Jewish life downtown" and the "priorities for reaching that vision." The Jewish Community Federation is contemplating a move from its downtown Cleveland headquarters to Beachwood, an option opposed by an ad hoc group of Jewish citizens. Steven Litt also feels that its headquarters should remain downtown.
Labels: Beachwood, Downtown Cleveland, institutional, urban sprawl
Geis reinvests in Northeast Ohio
Geis Companies, a local industrial developer, is using the proceeds from its January sale of ten suburban industrial properties to reinvest in projects across Greater Cleveland. Through its Hemingway Development division, the company has made purchases in Brecksville, Boston Heights, Mayfield Village, and Warrensville Heights.
Geis Companies, a local industrial developer, is using the proceeds from its January sale of ten suburban industrial properties to reinvest in projects across Greater Cleveland. Through its Hemingway Development division, the company has made purchases in Brecksville, Boston Heights, Mayfield Village, and Warrensville Heights.
Labels: Brecksville, Greater Cleveland, industrial, Mayfield Village, Summit County, Warrensville Heights
Central Park meeting report
The majority of the 120 Solon residents in attendance at a public hearing about Central Park supported the proposed mixed-use development. Peter Rubin of the Coral Co. indicated that he's considering alternate configurations for the proposed realignment of the intersection of SOM Center and Bainbridge Roads.
The majority of the 120 Solon residents in attendance at a public hearing about Central Park supported the proposed mixed-use development. Peter Rubin of the Coral Co. indicated that he's considering alternate configurations for the proposed realignment of the intersection of SOM Center and Bainbridge Roads.
Labels: events, mixed-use, roads and highways, Solon
More potential Broadview Heights rezonings
Broadview Heights voters may see additional rezoning issues on the November ballot. The Jacobs Group wants to rezone five parcels along Route 82 from office laboratory to general retail.
Broadview Heights voters may see additional rezoning issues on the November ballot. The Jacobs Group wants to rezone five parcels along Route 82 from office laboratory to general retail.
Labels: Broadview Heights, retail, zoning
Lakewood duplex conversion number two
With assistance from the Grow Lakewood Housing Fund, a Lakewood resident is performing the City's second conversion of a duplex to a single-family house. Work on the Cranford Avenue house may be completed in a few months.
With assistance from the Grow Lakewood Housing Fund, a Lakewood resident is performing the City's second conversion of a duplex to a single-family house. Work on the Cranford Avenue house may be completed in a few months.
Labels: Lakewood, residential
First suburbs apply for funding
The Northeast Ohio First Suburbs Consortium is seeking an $80,000 grant from the Ohio Department of Development to assist with economic development efforts in its member cities. The funds would also be used to improve the organization's advocacy and outreach capabilities.
The Northeast Ohio First Suburbs Consortium is seeking an $80,000 grant from the Ohio Department of Development to assist with economic development efforts in its member cities. The funds would also be used to improve the organization's advocacy and outreach capabilities.
Labels: Cuyahoga County, economic development, grants and appropriations
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