Leveraging the Lakefront: Spurring Inclusive Growth in Cleveland, Ohio Through Urban Redevelopment

Overview

How can a newly elected mayor leverage a redevelopment project to drive inclusive growth in a city facing entrenched disparities? Mayor Justin Bibb of Cleveland, Ohio, prioritized revitalizing the city’s North Coast waterfront as part of a broader strategy to address social and economic inequity. The project sought to integrate cultural landmarks while navigating financial constraints and competing priorities such as public safety, underperforming schools, and revitalizing underserved neighborhoods. How can mayors balance visionary planning with practical coalition-building and what strategies can ensure that transformative projects meet the needs of all residents?