Shaker Square, a historic landmark in Cleveland known for its ups and downs, is poised for a significant revitalization. Two years after being saved from foreclosure by two nonprofit organizations, detailed plans for breathing new life into the square were unveiled Thursday night. According to WKYC, the redevelopment plan includes more green spaces, outdoor patios for restaurants, and over 170 new housing units set to bolster the customer base and overall vibe.
The facelift, aimed to restore the square to its former glory while modernizing it, has been a collaborative effort involving community input. "You couldn't build this amazing place today. You couldn't replicate the architecture, the amazing green space," Cleveland Neighborhood Progress CEO Tania Menesse told WKYC. With priorities to sustain a diverse mix of retailers and curate memorable experiences, the plan is to increase foot traffic and bring new energy to the square.
Recent improvements have already made a mark, with new HVAC systems and roofs and upgrading security measures, with the installation of 60 security cameras being welcomed changes, as reported by Cleveland19 News. Residents and shoppers like Deshawn Hayes look forward to a safer and rejuvenated Shaker Square. "I would like the crime to go down and everyone can walk safe and be peaceful out here because the crime is up here high,” Hayes told Cleveland19 News.
While the project's completion timeline remains unclear, the non-profits have communicated that they'll thoroughly execute in phases, taking into account community feedback and financial inputs. The ambitious vision also targets improving connectivity with better public transportation and pedestrian safety enhancements and adding bike lanes and storage. "We're realistic. We'll do it in phases. We know we can't do it all at once," Joy Johnson, Executive Director of Burten, Bell, Carr Development Inc., shared with News 5 Cleveland.
Adding new housing developments has been cited as a vital component by residents, with the expectation that this would add vibrancy and support local businesses. "It would also help with the retail spaces and the shopping and things that we love to do," Cleveland resident Shelley Tobias said in a statement obtained by News 5 Cleveland. As old tenants like EDWINS depart, opportunities arise for new businesses to stake their claim in the square's future.
As mentioned in the vision plan from News 5 Cleveland, the overarching objective is to respect and preserve Shaker Square's history while optimizing it for sustainable future use. With an intentional leasing strategy and comprehensive safety and maintenance plans, Shaker Square is set for a transformation that honors its past while charting a path forward. The community's endorsement and sustained commitment from local merchants are key ingredients to ensure that, come what may, Shaker Square remains an integral hub for the Cleveland community.
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