The City of Cleveland has issued a call for developers to reimagine a significant stretch of its lakefront property, including the land that is home to the current Browns stadium. In a statement obtained by Cleveland19, Mayor Justin Bibb expressed the city's desire for partners who will "build a vibrant, connected, and iconic neighborhood on the shores of Lake Erie." The area in question spans roughly 50 acres, and the city's request for qualifications (RFQ) clearly indicates that plans should account for the possibility of the Browns' stadium being demolished in 2029 if the team relocates to Brook Park, Ohio.
Interested developers have until mid-September to submit their proposals, with the city expecting to select a development partner by late October. The RFQ stipulates that developers assume the stadium will be gone, however, they can propose a reuse of the existing structure, if desired. According to a FOX8 report, the efforts are led by Jess Trivisonno, Senior Advisor for Major Projects, and Scott Skinner, Executive Director of the North Coast Waterfront Development Corporation. Plans for the area include the construction of a pedestrian land bridge, titled the NorthCoastConnector, which is expected to begin in 2027 and will link downtown with the lakefront.
The project highlights the city's commitment to fostering economic growth and promoting racial equity, as it seeks to enhance connections between downtown and Lake Erie, while creating opportunities for historically underrepresented communities. A WKYC article noted that the endeavor is also intended to demonstrate Cleveland's dedication to climate resiliency with sustainability-first designs that prioritize environmental health and repair. In addition, the city is committed to building joy by balancing development with accessible green spaces and communal areas, fostering year-round use and intergenerational engagement.
This lakefront overhaul is part of a broader vision outlined in a master plan developed in collaboration with the NCWDC. However, with the potential changes looming over the Browns' Huntington Bank Field, the RFQ calls for a reimagined master plan that leverages insights from community outreach efforts. The RFQ lists objectives such as economic opportunity, racial equity, climate resiliency, and joy. Trivisonno told FOX8 that proposals can include a future with or without the Browns stadium, suggesting flexibility in incorporating the stadium's footprint into the overall lakefront design.
