In 2009, we were part of a joint consulting team that looked at potential options for redeveloping the Cleveland waterfront. As part of that engagement, we considered a wide range of strategies that could be employed at the site that was under the control of the Port of Cleveland.
The main conclusion was that change is possible. Many comparable cities have used former ports or industrial sites for transformative real estate developments. These developments have the potential to regenerate cities and create “uniqueness”. We laid out a plan of action for the client so that they could move the project forward. The key is to have effective and consistent political will to do so.
While the report is specific to Cleveland’s market conditions at that time and place, many of its conclusions are equally as valid in similar situations. If you’d like to review the final report, see below.