Last year, Cuyahoga Land Bank transitioned from a near-exclusive focus on residential work by adding more commercial and industrial programs – including more than $140 million of brownfield-related projects – to its growing list of services.

This year’s Land Bank President and CEO Ricardo León explains that the team will continue that growth strategy by capitalizing on the organization’s strengths.

“From a development perspective, we expanded our partnerships, started working with a lot of new groups and faces, and we are joining conversations we haven’t historically been part of,” León said.

He added that it is critical, as the Land Bank enters its 16th year, to grow and adapt to the economic uncertainty of the current environment. “In 2026, we are targeting ways to export the Land Bank’s unique expertise in order to significantly increase the organization’s impact by expanding services and adding more community and business engagement,” León said.

Exporting Expertise
Last October, León and Land Bank Data Scientist Dr. Ryan Sutter set-in-motion a service they plan to scale up in 2026. In a partnership with Omaha Municipal Land Bank, Sutter created a 10-year in-depth economic analysis highlighting the city land bank’s impact on its region of Nebraska.

The report, modeled after Cuyahoga Land Bank’s 15-Year Economic Impact Analysis, was what León hopes is just the first consulting project using the Land Bank’s specific expertise.
“With the Omaha report, we provided a granular study, including a parcel-level analysis for another land bank,” he explained. “This is a unique service our organization has developed. It is something that sets us apart, and we want to deploy that work outside of our region and on a national level.”

Another area where León wants to apply the Land Bank distinctive skill set toward efforts in the region to attract companies looking to relocate or grow. The Land Bank staff, he points out, can tap into a custom-built, analytical property database for site selection identifying which companies are best suited to relocate to the growing number of shovel-ready sites throughout Cuyahoga County.

“We are well-positioned to create highest and best use studies and identify the appropriate industry sectors for the sites. We can even provide outreach and problem-solving for commercial sites like the former National Acme plant property,” León said.

The Land Bank is well positioned to support site-targeting and business-attraction efforts for the City of Cleveland’s Site Readiness program, he added.

In 2026, the Land Bank is working to compile property and demographic data as part of the creation of a parcel-level map with a modeling function – in preparation for any future site selection consulting service.

Expanding Community Engagement and Partnerships
The pursuit of new partnerships, revenue growth and alternative streams of funding is another major initiative the Land Bank, with funding support from the Cleveland Foundation, will undertake this year.

“We continue to evolve the organizational structure,” León said. “The Land Bank is moving away from operating as a mom and pop, grassroots nonprofit and growing into a significant regional civic organization.”

The pivot away from traditional Land Bank operations will allow the organization to not rely solely on a static, restricted funding stream as it has the last 15 plus years.

The move, explains Senior Director of Engagement Anne Borchert, means the Land Bank is looking to operate more like a traditional nonprofit.

Going forward with a strategy aimed at increasing revenues through partnerships and services will require a bit of rebalancing and reshuffling of the deck, Borchert explains.

“By broadening how we generate resources, we’re better positioned to reinvest in neighborhoods, deepening those partnerships and taking on more ambitious work. That will go a long way to help stabilize housing markets, expand opportunity and deliver long-term benefits for residents across the county,” she said. “This shift gives us the flexibility to meet communities where they are today, while also plan and respond to needs for the future.”

Expanding services over the new year for the Land Bank which León stresses, accomplishes a lot for a relatively small group,” to as the saying goes – change the tire while the car is still moving.

“We have to keep doing what we historically have been good at – continuing to deliver on those services – while also adapting to a changing ecosystem and economic realities. We are looking for solutions, including new partnerships to drive the mission – and we have to do both at the same time,” León added.

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This partnership is currently reaching an exciting new milestone, this time on Luther Avenue in Cleveland’s Goodrich-Kirkland Park neighborhood. For years, this site was a vacant lot, remnants of a demolition from long ago. Now, thanks to LMM’s innovative approach and our collaborative efforts, activity surrounds it. Much of the site work at Luther Avenue is already complete, paving the way for something special: LMM’s very first new construction project. They are building a modular duplex home, which is largely complete in the warehouse and will soon be set on its foundation. We’re anticipating a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its completion by the end of August!

While this is LMM’s inaugural new construction, their expertise in affordable housing is well-established through their impactful renovation work. We currently have three other projects in the works with LMM, focusing on renovating existing homes in Cleveland’s St. Clair-Superior neighborhood. These efforts are dedicated to increasing the stock of affordable housing in our city, providing essential opportunities for individuals and families. We are committed to sharing photos of these exciting projects as they progress; stay tuned for updates.

Cuyahoga Land Bank plays a crucial role in enabling organizations like LMM to achieve their mission. Whether it’s providing properties ripe for renovation or, as in the case of Luther Avenue, supplying well-prepared vacant lots for new construction, we leverage our resources to support our partners. This ensures that valuable properties are put back into productive use, directly addressing the critical need for affordable housing.

“Our partnership with Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry is a shining example of how collaboration can drive significant positive change,” Land Bank President & CEO Ricardo León said. “Supporting organizations like LMM in their mission to provide safe, decent and affordable housing is central to our strategic vision. Together, we are building stronger communities and creating opportunities for a better future for all.”

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Homeownership is the foundation of a stable community. Not only are residents more engaged civically, they are more committed for the long term to the health of their neighborhood, their children thrive and all are happier. Giving this opportunity to both individuals and neighborhoods is the joy of getting to do the work we do. 

Five years ago, Cuyahoga Land Bank partnered with City Mission’s New Horizons. This program works with area non-profits and faith-based organizations to find housing solutions for single mothers and families served by Laura’s Home, a crisis center for women on Cleveland’s west side. Together, our work created a home for Star and her three children. 

Today, Star and her family are continuing their success as thriving homeowners and more. In a recent interview, she shared an update on her life and the profound impact of homeownership.

A Thriving Career and Family

Star is now a housing specialist for CGI Federal, a company contracted through the federal government that assists housing authorities nationwide. Her children are also flourishing. Felisity is 10 and in fifth grade, Zyon is 8 and in third grade, and Malaya is 7 and in second grade.

The Stability of Home

“How has homeownership impacted my daily life? Well, I have a sense of not worrying about having a roof over my children’s heads and knowing that we have a safe place to grow in and that they are able to see what stability looks like and feel secure,” Star said.

Star also cherishes her friendly neighborhood, where neighbors look out for one another. Her children enjoy playing outside, riding their bikes and exploring nearby parks. The neighborhood is conveniently located near essential services like the police and fire station, providing a sense of security. “Everyone basically knows each other, and I feel like that’s a really good thing,” she said.

Lessons Learned and Applied

Star credits the New Horizons program at Laura’s Home with providing her with invaluable life skills. “Since finishing the homeownership program at Laura’s home, I have utilized many tools I learned there, and one of the biggest was setting boundaries. It taught me how to be more secure with myself and know that I can’t jeopardize my livelihood for someone else when I’m taking care of my family.”

Overcoming Challenges

Star’s journey to homeownership was not without its challenges. Living in Detroit and struggling with housing instability, she packed up her kids and moved to Ohio to stay with her father in a small studio apartment, but the situation was difficult. “My life was unstable when I moved here,” she recalls. “I had no car, no resources.” Once she managed to get a vehicle, the search for work was further complicated by the lack of childcare and a support network. Determined not to burden her father further, she reluctantly explored shelters. One shelter downtown directed her to Laura’s Home, urging her to call daily. On a night marked by a heated argument with her father, when she felt utterly defeated and considered sleeping in her car with her children, she finally received the life-changing call from Laura’s Home with an opening. “That was probably the best day of my life,” she said. “I felt an overwhelming sense of relief. The kindness and warmth they showed me was calming. I didn’t know what I was stepping into, but now, looking back, I see it was all a plan for me, and I’m just so thankful for everything.”

Looking Ahead

Star’s hopes for the future are to keep building a strong foundation for her family and positively impacting others. “Sometimes I find myself talking to people and not knowing how much what I say to them matters until I see them down the line and they tell me how much of an impact I was able to make just by sharing my story, how much that helped them to move on and do something great with themselves,” Star said. “If I can tell my story and it’s going to be that one person I reach, I feel like that’s a success.”

Star’s story is a testament to the transformative power of stable housing and supportive programs like New Horizons. Cuyahoga Land Bank is proud to have played a role in her journey, and we celebrate her continued success as a homeowner and a role model for her children.

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Cuyahoga Land Bank, Land Bank Charities and Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity have successfully worked together for years. The success of this partnership has created safe, affordable housing solutions for families across Cleveland. Recently, as Habitat is working its way through its 400-Home Initiative, we’ve had the pleasure of participating in several heartwarming home dedications and ribbon-cutting ceremonies. The $33 million-Initiative is aiming to build 100 new homes, rehabilitate 50 existing homes and repair or enhance 250 additional homes in Cuyahoga and Lorain Counties between 2023 and 2027 to help underserved populations.

Cuyahoga Land Bank’s collaboration with Habitat for Humanity stems from a shared vision: to transform neighborhoods and empower individuals through homeownership. The Land Bank’s mission aligns perfectly with Habitat’s commitment to building strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter. We contribute by providing land, facilitating property acquisition and supporting the rehabilitation or new construction of homes. Habitat’s dedication to community-driven development combined with our expertise in land revitalization creates a powerful synergy that delivers tangible results.

These recent home dedications represent more than just the completion of construction projects. They signify new beginnings for families, offering them the stability and security of a permanent home. By creating affordable housing options, we are not only addressing a critical need but also investing in the long-term health and vitality of our neighborhoods. A testament to the power of collaboration and the tangible impact partnership can create, these recent ribbon include: 

Completion of Four Modular Homes: On Saturday, January 25, we joined Habitat on Cleveland’s near-West side as they celebrated completion of four modulars.

New Home Built: On March 14, Habitat dedicated a home in the Kinsman area.

New Family in the Buckeye Neighborhood: On Tuesday, April 1, Colleen and her family took the keys to their brand-new, officially blessed home in the Buckeye neighborhood. This project was done in partnership between Habitat and the Land Bank, along with Union Mortgage Homes. 

Ten More Modulars!: We cheered on Habitat’s Initiative progress and watched the families take the keys to these ranch-style, aging-in-place homes located around Cleveland in early April. 

Interested in becoming a Land Bank Charities partner? Learn more here. 

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The partnership blossomed at the 2024 Christian Missionary Alliance CONVERGE Conference in Columbus. Our late founder, Gus Frangos, presented on the Land Bank’s work with Envision Cleveland, a Christian and Missionary Alliance ministry that collaborates with individuals, communities, ministries and local government to reach marginalized populations in Cleveland and those struggling with poverty. Inspired by Gus’s message, Pastor Dixon approached him to learn more. This chance encounter sparked a conversation about the challenges faced by the deaf community, particularly in finding suitable housing.

Conversations continued after the conference as Signs of Grace fleshed out its plan to help the Deaf community achieve homeownership by renovating and selling homes to those in the community at an affordable price. The Land Bank identified a house in its inventory that was perfect for Signs of Grace’s first project: a 3-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom house in Garfield Heights acquired through a HUD sale. Requiring minimal rehabilitation, this property offered an ideal starting point for their renovation experience.

Signs of Grace has ambitious plans for this property. Not only will it become a home for a deserving deaf family within the church, but the proceeds of its sale will serve as a launchpad for a future transitional home for deaf youth near the church in Middleburg Heights. Here, young adults can acquire crucial life skills like driving and cooking while receiving comprehensive wrap-around support.

“Working with the Land Bank has been like a dream come true,” says Pastor Dixon. “We had the vision of what we needed to provide the Deaf community but no way of actually carrying out the vision until Gus Frangos and the Land Bank came along to suggest it was possible.”

Signs of Grace Deaf Church welcomes all, regardless of hearing ability. They utilize American Sign Language (ASL) to share the Gospel and provide a space for the deaf community to participate actively in church life. Their mission extends beyond the church’s walls, and Cuyahoga Land Bank is proud to support Signs of Grace in their mission. Through this partnership we can continue to build a more inclusive and supportive community for all.

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Before we close out this remarkable year and move into the next, let’s take one last look at our top 12 moments.

Site Readiness and Brownfield Cleanup

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s 2023 funding for Cleveland’s Site Readiness and Good Job Initiatives marked a significant step towards revitalizing the city’s manufacturing sector. This initiative aimed to attract new businesses by demolishing vacant structures and remediating brownfields. As 2024 progressed, the focus expanded to address the numerous brownfield sites across Northeast Ohio.

A key milestone was the acquisition of a 183,000-square-foot building in the Central Neighborhood in April. Additionally, state funding was secured for the cleanup of the heavily contaminated National Acme facility in East Glenville and Collinwood. These initiatives demonstrate a concerted effort to transform these underutilized sites into vibrant economic hubs.

Speaking of clean-up, Cuyahoga Land Bank’s demolition team has a busy future, thanks to the more-than $111 MILLION grant from the Ohio Department of Development’s Brownfield Remediation Program. Created to fund the cleanup of brownfield sites, assist with remediation of hazardous substances at industrial, commercial and institutional properties, asbestos abatement and more, the program has funded 34 Land Bank projects. All projects are Cuyahoga County-based, while many are for historical Cleveland properties.

Land Bank Scores $10M in Cleveland ARPA Funds for Legacy Communities

In March 2024, Cleveland City Council allocated the final portion of its American Rescue Plan Act Funds to Cuyahoga Land Bank. This significant investment will be used to rebuild, revitalize and renovate in Wards 5, 10 and 14, three historically disinvested neighborhoods.The project’s primary focus is to continue transforming neighborhoods to be equitable communities and create sustainable housing markets.  

Circle East Celebrates Completion of Mickey’s Building, Secures Buyer of the Commercial Space

Cuyahoga Land Bank’s completion of the $3.5-million renovation and subsequent sale of the historic Mickey’s Building to Verdynt Bio, marks a significant milestone in the revitalization of East Cleveland. This 25,000-square-foot, repurposed Buick dealership serves as an attractive centerpiece for the emerging Circle East District, generating employment opportunities and increased tax income for the City of East Cleveland. Verdynt Bio, a Boston-based science facility developer with strong ties to Ohio, plans to invest more than $12 million into the facility to create a state-of-the-art laboratory and office co-working space.

Seven-Year Project on West 128th Completed

Another terrific collaboration between Habitat for Humanity of Greater Cleveland and the Cuyahoga Land Bank transformed five vacant lots in Cleveland’s West Side into affordable homes. A project we lovingly refer to as “The Stairway to Nowhere” project because of a staircase on one of the lots that led literally nowhere and now leads to a backyard, launched in 2017 and highlights the true and full process of land banking Ð returning land to productive use. The Land Bank’s acquisition and legal teams worked diligently to acquire the land and navigate complex legal hurdles, including reviving a defunct homeowners association and facilitating a land swap. Once the land was cleared, the Land Bank partnered with Habitat for Humanity to construct five homes, with additional financial support from Land Bank Charities. This collaborative effort resulted in the creation of affordable housing, revitalized a neighborhood and empowered five families to achieve the dream of homeownership.

Cuyahoga Land Bank Announces $3.6 Billion Economic Impact Over 15 Years

After a year-long deepdive into the science and economics of land banking, the Cuyahoga Land Bank unveiled a comprehensive study demonstrating the significant impact of its 15-year revitalization efforts. The study revealed a staggering $3.6 billion economic boost to the region, encompassing increased property values, tax revenues and overall economic activity. By demolishing blighted properties, renovating homes and constructing new housing, the Land Bank has not only transformed neighborhoods but also generated substantial financial returns. This achievement highlights the transformative power of land banking and the enduring legacy of Gus Frangos, the organization’s visionary founder.

Land Bank Celebrates 15-Year Anniversary With Symposium, Celebration

When you realize your organization has catalyzed billions of dollars of economic change, a celebration is necessary. On October 31, The Cleveland Foundation hosted our 15 Year Symposium, where we unveiled the Impact Analysis results and interviewed a panel of Northeast Ohio leaders who have helped drive results. The following Thursday, we celebrated the work and life of Cuyahoga Land Bank’s Visionary, Founder and President Gus Frangos. The emotional evening was led by new Land Bank President & CEO Ricardo Le—n.

Realty Reimagined Helps More Than 100 Euclid Beach Residents Find New Homes

The Euclid Beach Mobile Home was in dire need of repairs and full of units that mostly were built before 1980, making them well beyond a healthy age. Closing this park meant that every resident in it needed a new place to call home. What could have been a precarious situation was nothing short of successful, thanks to the expert team at Realty Reimagined and its kind, compassionate leader Sony Edwards.  

10,000 Demolitions!

With the average Cleveland home being built in the 1920s, those that are abandoned can quickly become dilapidated properties that cause blight in a community. This is how demolition became the bread and butter of the Land Bank when it opened at the height of the 2009 housing crisis. Since then, demos have become routine, but not enough to not surprise us. The 10,000th demo the Land Bank team performed offered one of those unexpected moments. Learn about what we found in the house on Holyrood.

Circle East District Becomes First Development in NEO to Earn Green Certification  

In November, Circle East District became the first development in Northeast Ohio to be recognized for its sustainability by National Green Building Standard (NGBS) and Home Innovation Research Labs. This certification acknowledges Cuyahoga Land Bank’s sustainability efforts and indicates that Circle East District has met all the planning and pre-development goals and standards the NGBS sets. Home Innovation Research Labs applies a rigorous point-based rating system to determine the true sustainability of a development project. Projects can earn a one-, two-, three or four-star rating. The base level of points a four-star winner can earn is 176, and Circle East District tallied up 225 points!  

Land Bank Charities, Habitat For Humanities Collaborate to Expand Modular Housing Across County

Late in the summer into early fall, Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanities celebrated the groundbreaking for modular home communities going in two different neighborhoods – near the Detroit Shoreway and in Collinwood. Land Bank Charities supported the efforts with grants, and look forward to expanding the opportunity for new homes, built to help families age in place.

Welcome Home Award

The Cuyahoga Land Bank has secured a $4.95 million grant from the Ohio Department of Development’s Welcome Home Ohio Program to bolster affordable housing development within the county. This funding will be utilized in collaboration with Cuyahoga County, CHN Housing Partners, and Near West Land Trust to create new affordable homes through construction and renovation projects. The partnership aims to address the county’s housing needs, increase homeownership opportunities, and revitalize neighborhoods. By leveraging this grant, the organizations involved will contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable housing market in Cuyahoga County.

Cuyahoga Land Bank Mourns Loss of Founder, President, Visionary

On August 10, Cuyahoga Land Bank experienced an unexpected and profound loss with the passing of our Visionary, Founder, President and General Counsel Gus Frangos. Words cannot express the warmth, joy, presence and laughs he brought our entire community, nor the transformative leadership and unwavering commitment he had for revitalizing communities. However, the person he was lives on in everyone who knew him and strengthens our dedication to continuing his mission of improving Cuyahoga County.

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Cuyahoga Land Bank Charities is proud to support Habitat for Humanity of Greater Cleveland’s mission to provide affordable housing opportunities for families in need. Our most recent collaboration will bring 19 new modular homes to three neighborhoods throughout Cleveland this year.

Following the successful installation of four new modular homes on West 83rd Street in Cleveland’s Detroit Shoreway neighborhood in early September, a groundbreaking was held to kick off the second phase of the project Ð 10 new modular homes on East 164th Street in Collinwood.

With the support of Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb and City of Cleveland Councilmembers Mike Polensek and Jenny Spencer, Habitat secured $5 million in ARPA support from the Cleveland City Council for this project. Additionally, Cuyahoga Land Bank Charities is providing $20,000 per modular home to help make these affordable housing options a reality.

“We are excited to see these affordable housing projects come to fruition and look forward to continuing our partnership with Habitat for Humanity,” said Cuyahoga Land Bank President Ricardo Le—n.

Each home is a spacious single-story, three-bedroom, two-bathroom unit with 1,350 square feet of living space. They are aging-in-place friendly and designed with features that support mobility and accessibility and accommodate the changing needs of individuals as they age.

“Our ongoing partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Cleveland is essential to our mission of revitalizing neighborhoods and providing affordable housing opportunities for families. Habitat’s commitment to building aging-in-place friendly homes ensures that these homes will meet the needs of their owners for years to come,” Le—n said.

Modular homes offer several advantages that make them an excellent choice for affordable housing, especially on infill lots in Cleveland neighborhoods. These include faster completion (modular homes are built in a factory under controlled conditions, significantly reducing construction time), cost-efficiency and reduced environmental impact. By leveraging the benefits of modular construction, Habitat for Humanity can provide affordable housing options that are both sustainable and accessible to needy families.

“I appreciate the financial commitment that Cuyahoga Land Bank Charities has made to this lynchpin new housing project in the North Shore Collinwood area,” says City of Cleveland Ward 8 Councilman Mike Polensek. “The ten homes, which will be aging-in-place friendly, will hopefully be the beginning of additional affordable housing opportunities in the greater community.”

Habitat broke ground on the final five modular homes in Cleveland’s Puritas-Longmead neighborhood in November.

See a video of the groundbreaking HERE.

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The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of celebration and reflection as the Cuyahoga Land Bank marked its 15th anniversary. From a symposium to a gala, our organization has been honoring its past, present and future.

A Look Back: 15 Years of Impact

To commemorate this milestone, the Land Bank released a comprehensive 15-Year Impact Report. This report delves into the organization’s significant contributions to Cuyahoga County, revealing staggering figures. The total estimated economic impact of the Cuyahoga Land Bank’s activities is $3.6 billion, underscoring its substantial contributions to urban revitalization and economic resilience across Cuyahoga County. The analysis focuses on six main components:

• Demolition – The study found that the demolition of nearly 10,000 properties increased surrounding property values, totaling $1.47 billion.
• Renovations – In 15 years, more than 2,600 homes have been renovated and returned to the housing market, creating a total impact of nearly $950 million in increased property values.
• New Construction – The construction of nearly 250 new homes contributed approximately $143 million in property value increases.
• Property Tax Revenue – One primary objective of the Cuyahoga Land Bank is to return vacant and abandoned properties to productive use, generating tax revenue for local governments. Between 2009 and 2023, the Land Bank restored more than $48 million in property tax revenue.
• Catalyzed Private Investment – By assembling land, clearing titles and preparing properties for development, the Land Bank has created opportunities for large-scale private investments that drive economic growth, sparking more than $395 million in private investment.
• Economic Impact of Land Bank Expenditures – From 2009 to 2024, Cuyahoga Land Bank spent about $330 million on demolitions, renovations, new constructions and other activities, generating a total economic output of $632.7 million in the local economy.

All this combined, the Land Bank generates about$11 in total economic impact for every dollar it spends, demonstrating its investments are highly effective in driving local economic growth and revitalization.

A Symposium and Celebration

The 15-Year Impact Symposium, held on October 31 at the Cleveland Foundation, brought together industry experts, community leaders and Land Bank staff to discuss the findings of the report. The panel discussion, moderated by Cleveland Foundation CEO & President Lillian Kuri and Land Bank CEO & President Ricardo Le—n, featured insights from prominent figures like Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity President John Litten, First Suburbs Consortium Director Jennifer Kuzma, Maple Heights Mayor Annette Blackwell and City of Cleveland Director of Building & Housing Sally Martin O’Toole. See a highlight reel of the Symposium HERE.  

On the evening of November 7, friends, family, dignitaries, partners and leaders from across the county and state joined the Celebration of Community at Majestic Hall in Downtown Cleveland. Not only was the event a grand celebration of 15 years of Land Bank impact across our county, but also a dedication to our late, great Founder, President and General Counsel Gus Frangos. (See photos from the celebration below.)

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who made the Celebration of Community a resounding success. Your unwavering support, generous sponsorships, and enthusiastic attendance contributed significantly to this memorable event. Joining together to celebrate 15 years of good work offered us a beautiful and strong moment to reflect on our past and look forward to our future.  

As the Cuyahoga Land Bank enters its next chapter, it remains committed to its mission of revitalizing communities and improving lives.

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As the Cuyahoga Land Bank celebrates its fifteenth anniversary, we reflect on the key milestones and achievements that have defined our work over the years.

The Cuyahoga Land Bank’s third five-year period (2019-2024) was marked by continued growth and transformative achievements. From the ambitious Circle East District redevelopment in East Cleveland to the groundbreaking of our first modular home construction project, the Land Bank demonstrated its commitment to revitalizing communities and driving economic development. A significant milestone during this time was the achievement of our 10,000th demolition, underscoring the Land Bank’s ongoing efforts to address blight and create opportunities for new development. Join us as we explore these key milestones and their lasting impact on Cuyahoga County.

February 2019: Land Bank Benefits from County Housing Program That Focuses on Renovations

Council voted 11-0 on the legislation that was drafted in concert with the Cuyahoga Land Bank and the county’s Department of Development. The legislation was sponsored by Council President Dan Brady, Vice President Pernel Jones Jr., council members Dale Miller and Cheryl Stephens and co-sponsored by council members Yvonne Conwell, Sunny Simon and Michael Gallagher. The six-year, three-prong program will refocus the county land bank from demolition projects to mostly home rehabilitations. Check it out.  

June 2019: Home Renovations Take Center Stage of Land Bank Work (for now)

Slavic Village came a long way since the start of the housing crisis: home sales and values are up, bringing a restoration of wealth to a predominantly African-American community that saw values plummet in the foreclosure crisis. Cuyahoga County Land Reutilization Corp., which was credited for much of that work, formed 10 years ago this month in response to the foreclosure crisis. As it marks this anniversary, the Land Bank is evaluating the impact of its first decade in operation and preparing for its next chapter. The Plain Dealer ran a full story.

 After 10 years and 8,000 demolitions, Cuyahoga Land Bank shifts focus to rehabs

June 2019: Economic Impact of Land Bank Work Has Resounding Effect on County

In its first 10 years, Cuyahoga Land Bank has had a $1.43 billion impact, according to our 2019 study. The Plain Dealer looks at the organization’s role in restoring property values by demolishing and rehabilitating distressed structures, returning properties to Cuyahoga County’s tax rolls, and bolstering the local economy with the money it has spent and private-sector investments it has spurred. You can read the full report.  

 Study shows Cuyahoga Land Bank Has $1.4 Billion Impact on Economy

October 2019: Cuyahoga Land Bank Charities Officially Established to Provide Housing Opportunities to Vulnerable Populations and Communities

November 2020: Land Bank Sets First Modular Homes in One Day

April 2021 – Land Bank Reaches Milestone With 9,000 demolitions

July 2021: New Construction Gap Grants Are Now Available

Cuyahoga Land Bank strategically invests in emerging markets of Cuyahoga County by periodically making available construction financing gap grants to experienced home developers to support the construction of new single-family homes, duplexes and townhomes. The goal of the Housing Construction Gap Grant Program is to strengthen market values and to spur development by others in these emerging markets. The Land Bank is looking for “shovel-ready” projects that have the support of their respective municipalities and local institutions. More on the availability of the grants here.

August 2021: Final Demo Money Is Spent

Ohio’s Hardest Hit Funds were administered by the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) under its Neighborhood Initiative Program. The funds were allocated for foreclosure prevention and neighborhood stabilization efforts in neighborhoods that particularly experienced the negative effects of the crisis. As of the end of June 2021, the last of the remaining HHF funds were allocated as the program enters the close out period.   Over the past seven years, the Cuyahoga Land Bank demolished a total of 5,091 abandoned and blighted properties using more than $73 million in HHF funds, making a huge positive impact on neighborhoods and the quality of life of Cuyahoga County residents. The full press release is here.

November 2021: Gus Frangos Takes Home Huge Award!

Cuyahoga Land Bank President and General Counsel Gus Frangos received the inaugural Center for Community Progress‘ Lifetime Achievement Award.  

December 2021: Land Bank Debuts Aging-in-Place Homes

The Cuyahoga Land Bank embraced the aging-in-place trend and put the final touches on two new homes in Cleveland’s Detroit-Shoreway neighborhood, and then hosted an open house and ribbon cutting. Attendees got a first-hand look at all of the unique aging-in-place features, which you can see here.

November 2022: ODOD Funding Helps Land Bank Continue Strategic Demo Efforts

Cuyahoga Land Bank successfully secured a $9.4 million grant award from the Ohio Department of Development’s $150 million new Building Demolition & Site Revitalization Program. The program was designed to help communities in nearly every Ohio county turn blighted properties into cleared land that can attract investment, business, and jobs. In early July, the Land Bank was awarded a $500,000 grant, and it received the second $8.9 million award last week. Coupled with $3 million of matching funds, including up to $2 million of funds provided by Cuyahoga County, the Cuyahoga Land Bank plans to demolish more than 400 specific eligible and selected blighted properties throughout the county, including approximately 300 nuisance abatements for the City of Cleveland. The full plan is here.

August 2023: 33-Acre Redevelopment Near University Circle Officially Out of Talks, Into Planning

On vacant lots in East Cleveland, a few hundred yards from the bustle of University Circle, signs posted by the Cuyahoga Land Bank warn trespassers away. Since 2016, the Land Bank has amassed more than 200 properties in this district, at the Cleveland-East Cleveland border, and we are now serving as master developer for 33 acres, where preliminary plans call for building hundreds of homes and luring commercial developers to a depleted stretch of Euclid Avenue. Crain’s covers it.

November 2023: Mission-Based Brokerage Team Established at Land Bank

Cuyahoga Land Bank recently established its own mission-based real estate brokerage – Realty Reimagined – to advance its mission to help people become homeowners. A full-service brokerage for residential and commercial properties, Realty Reimagined is a non-profit brokerage that not only acts as an intermediary between buyers and sellers of real estate but also provides valuable resources to help people prepare for homeownership by providing free pre- and post-buying education, one-on-one counseling by a HUD certified counselor and financial education sessions. Learn more.

February 2024: Land Bank Partners to Transform Vacant Commercial Lots

Imagine a cityscape transformed. Vacant lots teaming with possibility, replaced by thriving businesses and vibrant communities. This isn’t a scene from science fiction; it’s the vision driving the newly established Cleveland Site Readiness Fund (SRF), a bold initiative to reactivate blighted and abandoned industrial properties in Cleveland in order to attract good jobs, build neighborhood wealth, and reduce blight. Through a partnership with the Cuyahoga Land Bank, the Fund fosters collaboration, working hand-in-hand with government agencies, community organizations and private developers. This initiative highlights the collaborative spirit we love.  

March 2024: Land Bank Receives Grant to Focus Work on Three Cleveland Wards

Cleveland City Council announced in early March that it strategically allotted the final portion of its American Rescue Plan Act funds to Cuyahoga Land Bank. The Land Bank will use these funds across wards 5, 10 and 14 – three neighborhoods historically burdened by disinvestment – to revitalize homes and create a more equitable city for all.   Dive into the details.

July 2024: Placemaking Used to Lead Development of East Cleveland Initiative

While the efforts to reshape the western most East Cleveland neighborhood officially began in 2015, the formal placemaking study that involved almost 150 participants across a variety of engagement events, surveys and meet-ups, ran from January through August 2023. The results of all of these interactions have been memorialized in a formal publication, Connect East Cleveland.  

July 2024: Circle East Marks Completion of First Major Project

What has been an empty commercial property for decades will become a hub of activity, an opportunity for jobs and income, and the anchor of a thriving neighborhood! On Wednesday, July 10, 2024, Cuyahoga Land Bank with East Cleveland celebrated the official completion and pending sale of the iconic Mickey’s building. The $3.5 million renovation of the 25,000-square foot commercial building is slated to create up to 100 jobs and a $2.5 million payroll in the city that has only experienced decline over the past few decades. The celebration was well deserved.

July 2024: Land Bank Hits 10,000 Demolitions Milestone

Our 10,000th demolition finally landed, and it didn’t come without a great story! Located on Holyrood Road in Cleveland, just about a mile west of Wade Oval and south of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens – two beautiful regional icons, this home was much in need of demolition. Beyond adding serious blight to this historic cozy street, neighbors on the left and right were ready to see this eyesore come down. Read about it!

August 2024: Land Bank Founder Unexpectedly Passes

On August 10, 2024, Gus Frangos, land bank legislation writer, Cuyahoga Land Bank Founder and the kind man who dedicated his professional life to creating housing opportunities for all populations across the county, passed away unexpectedly. He left a gaping hole in our hearts, but offered the trust, knowledge and wisdom to move his mission forward, even in his absence. Rest in peace, Gus. Honoring your legacy will stay at the forefront of our work.

August 2024: $23M Award Granted to Help Fund Demolitions  

Cuyahoga Land Bank has been and continues to be the big winner with the latest round of grants awarded in early August. More than $23 million (about a third of the $67 million total this round going to nine counties) will be available for the organization to, working with Cuyahoga County and the City of Cleveland, demolish about a 1,000 buildings and structures, more than 900 of those in Cleveland. Click here for the full Crain’s story.

August 2024: More Than $60M Grant Helps Land Bank Remediate Brownfields

The Cuyahoga County Land Reutilization Corporation, or County Land Bank, recently won nearly $45 million from the state to revitalize the seven brownfield sites into future use as residential properties, office and retail space, public recreation or manufacturing. The properties selected have long sat idle and in need of major cleanup from waste and contamination. The full project list is here

September 2024: Board Appoints Ricardo León as New President

Ricardo León, who served as the Land Bank’s COO for more than two years was appointed President of Cuyahoga Land Bank. León has vast experience in Cuyahoga County’s economic development world. Prior to joining the Land Bank, León led Metro West Community Development Organization as the Executive Director for nearly five years. He also currently serves on a variety of nonprofit boards that support Cuyahoga County residents. Neo-Trans covered the story.

The post A Look Back at Cuyahoga Land Bank’s Third Five Years appeared first on Cuyahoga Land Bank.

As the Cuyahoga Land Bank celebrates its 15th anniversary, we reflect on the key milestones and achievements that have defined our work since inception.

The second five years of the Cuyahoga Land Bank (2014-2018) were marked by groundbreaking achievements and significant economic impact. From successful community collaborations to the demolition of blighted structures like the Old Brooklyn YMCA, the Land Bank continued to revitalize neighborhoods across Cuyahoga County. A notable milestone during this period was the completion of the first-ever Land Bank new home construction project, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to creating high-quality modern housing opportunities. In fact, a study in 2019 revealed that the Land Bank has generated more than $1 billion in economic impact by the end of its decade of existence.  

Let’s dive into these transformative events and their lasting impact on our community.

March 2014: Land Bank Scores Big Award to Remove Blighted Homes

The Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) announced on February 28 that Cuyahoga Land Bank would share $50 million in federal funds from the U.S. Treasury with 10 other Ohio land banks for the demolition of vacant and abandoned one- to four-unit residential structures. The competitive awards were based on factors including county population, the magnitude of vacant and abandoned homes identified for acquisition in the county, and the track record of the land bank. The Cuyahoga Land Bank received 20% of the total funds awarded. Check out the full release.

March 2014: Partnership with Cleveland Fire Department Kicks off First Training Event

Fire cadets trained at an abandoned house as part of their studies at the Cuyahoga Community College Fire Training Academy. The 29 cadets are going through a series of live fire training sessions at the house, which is owned by the Cuyahoga Land Bank. Read more!

April 2014: Three Land Bank Milestones, Just Like That!

Read on for the details of our 4,000th property acquisition, 2,500th demolition and 850th renovation! 2014 is shaping up to be one for the record books.

June 2014: Assistant General Counsel Douglas Sawyer Makes Strong Entrance Into Organization  

On June 5, 2014, Cuyahoga Land Bank Staff Attorney Doug Sawyer and President Gus Frangos traveled to Columbus to meet with Governor John Kasich for the signing of S.B. 172. The new law provided amendments to the land banking statutes to enhance the ability of courts, boards of revision and other governmental agencies to repurpose and eliminate vacant and abandoned properties throughout the state. The new bill was sponsored by Senator Tom Patton who was also the chief sponsor of S.B. 353 in 2009, which established county land banks.  

July 2014: Cuyahoga Land Bank Celebrates Five Years

It was June 1, 2009 when a group of eight newly hired Land Bank staff sat in a semi-circle in the unfurnished new office space of the Cuyahoga Land Bank at 323 West Lakeside Avenue.   “You are the A-Team.   You are the pioneers,” said Cuyahoga Land Bank President and General Counsel Gus Frangos to his new staff at the Cuyahoga Land Bank.   This full and great story is here.  

July 2014: Land Bank Gets Nod in Renown Slavic Village Art Show

Even a vacant home can be turned into an artist’s canvas! This is exactly what happened in the Warszawa District in Slavic Village.   Painters, architects, and neighborhood children collaborated to create for Rooms to Let Cleveland, an artwork exhibition and block party to showcase three vacant homes which happened to be owned by the Cuyahoga Land Bank.  

November 2014: City Council Offers Unanimous Vote Regarding Demolition Funds

Cuyahoga County gave cities tens of millions of dollars to tear down blighted buildings. A $50 million bond issue for demolition, debated all year, passed the county council unanimously, and the aggressive action addresses one of Cleveland’s most urgent and overwhelming problems. Many city neighborhoods are still scarred by abandoned homes from the recession and foreclosure crisis. More here on this Cleveland Magazine coverage.  

December 2014: Randall Park Mall:   A True Rags-to-Riches Story

A trio of excavators surrounded the entrance to the defunct Dillard’s department store on Monday morning, starting the final chapter in the riches-to-rags story of Randall Park Mall. When the mall opened in 1976, thousands of people flocked there to see the stores, the celebrities, the glitz and the glamour. Only a few mourners huddled in the pockmarked parking lot to watch this week, as the wrecking equipment chewed into the old department store, stripping out steel and sending dust into the cold air. There wasn’t much left to grieve. The mall closed in 2009 but had been dying for more than a decade before that. Don’t miss this story.

December 2014: ClevelandÐBased Grocery Icon Expansion Begins With the Land Bank

On an early December morning, Cuyahoga Land Bank contractors began work to demolish a dilapidated 77,000 square foot structure for the future site of Heinen’s new food production plant in the City of Warrensville Heights. The demolition process included the removal of the building, asbestos remediation, building cleanout, and fencing and debris removal which cost totaled at $610,000. This story is a can’t miss.

May 2015: Military-Themed Initiatives Remind Us of National History

While we will always and forever be indebted to our nation’s military veterans, we will never stop trying. These Land Bank initiatives are proof, as we had two simultaneous efforts that focus on housing, health and justice for wounded warriors.

August 2015: County Land Banks Sprout up Around Ohio

Check it out!  Six years after Cuyahoga Land Bank opened its doors, a powerful, effective county land bank movement has taken hold in the State of Ohio – thanks to the work of Thriving Communities Institute (TCI).   TCI, directed by former Cuyahoga County Treasurer James Rokakis, has helped counties establish their own county land banks and facilitates training throughout Ohio. There are now twenty-five land banks and four more on the way thanks to TCI’s work.

November 2015: The Land Bank Scores Another Round of Funding for Demos

The good work was given a thumbs-up to continue when the Ohio Housing Finance Agency announced the 12 recipients being awarded funds to prevent foreclosures and stabilize local property values through demolition and greening of vacant and blighted homes. Cuyahoga Land Bank scored more than $6 million. The full story is here.

November 2015: Land Bank Brings on Another Charity Partner

How does a person go from working more than 20 years in the commercial construction industry to serving veteran women who may be rebounding from drug addiction, domestic violence, incarceration or homelessness?   Sheila Locatelli, CEO and Founder of Women of Hope, would say she never saw it coming.   But today, Sheila is renovating a vacant and abandoned Cuyahoga Land Bank house for four veteran women.   The home “Ariya’s House” is expected to be up and running in early 2016.   Learn more about this exciting development.  

November 2015: First Major Commercial Demolition Project Underway

On November 23, Cuyahoga Land Bank began the first major commercial demo utilizing County Demolition Program funds. The project, located at 3393 Warrensville Center Road in Shaker Heights, had been a long-shuttered building that was owned by the City of Shaker Heights. The cleared land now serves as a site for commercial development. The Land Bank evolved again, and you can read about the project and its funding.  

January 2016: The Land Bank acquires its 6,000th property.

July 2016: The Land Bank Hosts Collaborative Forum

Check out the lineup of collaborators and guests at this Land Bank-orchestrated symposium. In response to increasing requests for assistance from organizations and church groups that are doing good works in our neighborhoods, the Cuyahoga Land Bank hosted a Community Collaboration Workshop on June 15, 2016 at the City Mission.   More than 140 leaders of faith-based and non-profit organizations in Cuyahoga County gathered for an informative presentation on ways to work with the Cuyahoga Land Bank to stabilize our community, repurpose vacant land and expand affordable housing options for our county’s citizens.

January 2017: Harvard Recognizes the Land Bank in American Government Awards Competition

Cuyahoga Land Bank advanced from a pool of more than 500 applications from all 50 states and was selected by the Innovations Award evaluators as examples of novel and effective action whose work has had significant impact, and who they believe can be replicated across the country and the world. This award made Gus proud. Learn more here.

February 2017: Land Bank hits 5,000th demolition milestone

April 2017: Swingos Property Gets New Life

Abandoned nearly eight years, the former Swingos on the Lake Ð the popular restaurant with unbeatable lake and downtown views Ð will soon be home to a new lakefront eatery thanks to the vision of local restaurateur Tony George. Located on the ground floor of the Carlyle on the Lake condominium complex, the building has been vacant since the iconic restaurant closed its doors in 2009.   When the property fell into forfeiture after no bids were offered in foreclosure, the Cuyahoga Land Bank stepped in. This is a great Land Bank story to read.  

May 2017: Abandoned Property Becomes Urban Winery

Rising Harvest Farm was established in Cleveland’s Old Brooklyn neighborhood in 2012 as a sustainable urban farming system serving the local community; creating employment and educational opportunities; improving the availability of healthy food; and supporting Cleveland’s green efforts. The farm took on a new name, operator and unique new flare in 2017, and you can learn all about it here.

February 2018: Cuyahoga Land Bank Takes on New Construction!

And yet another evolution of Cuyahoga Land Bank with the debut of its first new-build home! From 2009 to 2018, Cuyahoga Land Bank facilitated the renovation of more than 1,600 homes and demolished more than 6,000 blighted properties in Cuyahoga County. In 2018, we debuted a new, modern single-family home that stands on the site of a formerly blighted and abandoned property at 2168 West 29th Street.   Take a look at its features.  

March 2018: Cleveland Fisher Houses Break Ground

Families of veteran or active duty military personnel receiving treatment at the Louis Stokes VA Medical Center have a place to stay, thanks to a “home away from home” that was built on grounds adjacent to the medical center. The Fisher House Foundation created two Greater Cleveland Fisher House homes with 16 suites that accommodate up to 50 family members to stay for free while their loved ones are being treated. Check out the Land Bank’s involvement.  

July 2018: Old Brooklyn YMCA Finally Comes Down!

More than a decade after closing in 2006, the Old Brooklyn YMCA building was torn down by the Cuyahoga Land Bank.   Neighbors joined City Council President Kevin Kelley, Councilman Tony Brancatelli. EDEN, CHN Community Partners and the Metro West Community Development Corp to cheer on the demolition of the dilapidated building and an adjacent warehouse on West 25th Street. Read more about how razing this building positively affected the community.

The post A Look Back at Cuyahoga Land Bank’s Second Five Years appeared first on Cuyahoga Land Bank.