According to officials, the project aims to revitalize the stretch of shoreline between West 3rd Street and East 9th Street.
The North Coast Waterfront Development Corporation (NCWDC), in partnership with the City of Cleveland, has revealed plans to release a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a significant development opportunity along the downtown lakefront of the city.
This initiative is designed to bring life to the area between West 3rd Street and East 9th Street, transforming dormant waterfront land into a bustling and inclusive public area that re-establishes the connection between the city and Lake Erie.
NCWDC will oversee and manage the RFQ process with real estate firm CBRE facilitating the effort, according to a news release.
Mayor Justin Bibb expressed, “For too long, Cleveland has been separated from its most valuable natural resource — our lakefront. This endeavor is geared towards reshaping our city’s possibilities. It’s about reintroducing citizens of Cleveland to the water, crafting an inclusive and dynamic destination that mirrors our identity and aspirations. This is a rare opportunity to create a lakefront that caters to everyone.”
The initiative will be supported by significant investments from federal, state and local governments to improve walkability, access and connectivity between downtown and the lakefront.
According to 3News’ partner Cleveland.com, the lakefront development process is moving forward regardless of whether the Cleveland Browns remain at their current stadium site or relocate to Brook Park. The team’s lease at Huntington Bank Field expires after the 2028 NFL season.
If the Browns move, approximately 50 acres of land would become available for redevelopment. If the stadium remains, about 25 acres would be open for new development along the downtown lakefront, Cleveland.com reports.
“This project represents one of the most impactful and important development opportunities in the region’s history,” said Scott Skinner, Executive Director of the North Coast Waterfront Development Corporation. “We’re finally opening up parts of the lakefront that have been cut off for generations and putting them to use in a way that reflects the priorities of Clevelanders today. This is about creating a place that connects people and builds a stronger future for everyone.”
The RFQ will seek development teams with a track record of delivering complex, high-impact real estate projects. Community engagement has played a central role in shaping the plan, and city officials say that transparency and public input will remain priorities throughout the selection process.
Officials noted that the RFQ will be released this summer.
NCWDC and the City of Cleveland expect to select a development team or teams by the end of 2025.
The announcement comes just days after the Greater Cleveland Partnership endorsed the Browns’ desired move to Brook Park. The group also called on all parties to work together to redevelop the Lake Erie waterfront, even if the Browns leave, believing the city can still attract prime tenants to the space.
