Cleveland’s downtown is ready for its next phase of growth. With national and local trends changing the way that people live, work, and recreate, downtowns require a vision for the future to set the stage for growth. Strategic real estate development plays a pivotal role in the continued evolution of the city’s downtown, generating new revenue, attracting businesses, creating jobs and sparking neighborhood investment. Over the last few years, downtown has seen creative new development models like Project Scarlet and Erieview Tower mixing hospitality-branded apartments and hotel uses to diversify use and risk. KJK has worked alongside developers, owners, and stakeholders on transformative downtown projects, including Erieview Tower, helping navigate complex real estate, financing, historic tax credit, and redevelopment considerations tied to large-scale urban repositioning efforts. To keep momentum building, the challenge is to focus on the projects most likely to drive that change and signal lasting progress.
The following five sites are among the clearest opportunities. Their redevelopment could define Cleveland’s next chapter and set the stage for broader growth still to come.
Number One: The Superman Building (750 Huron Road)
Cleveland is the birthplace of Superman, and it feels fitting that the building nicknamed the “Superman Building” should finally see the investment it deserves. The iconic AT&T building has 20 vacant floors in the heart of downtown. With sweeping views of Progressive Field and remarkable architectural features, this property resembles the Rose Building across the street and would be a good fit for a residential-hospitality use. It qualifies for Historic Tax Credits and presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform a Cleveland landmark into a vibrant destination that celebrates the city’s legacy and future.
Number Two: The Rockefeller Building (614 W. Superior Avenue)
John D. Rockefeller is often called ‘the man who built America,’ yet the Cleveland building that bears his name remains vacant and deteriorating. With its stunning architectural details, rich history, and prime location across from the new Sherwin Williams HQ and just north of the proposed Bedrock Riverfront development, this property is primed for purchase and redevelopment. Recently, the building’s lender returned it to the market, at what’s likely to be a reduced price from prior valuations. A previous developer secured an $8 million brownfield grant, and the property qualifies for Historic Tax Credits. Breathing new life into this property would honor its history while creating modern opportunities for downtown Cleveland.
Number Three: 1100 Superior Avenue
Formerly known as the Oswald Centre, 1100 Superior is one of downtown’s tallest office towers. It went to auction last year after years of ownership changes and rising vacancy. The property is a cornerstone of the Nine-Twelve District and should be prioritized for redevelopment. The demands of the office market have changed drastically over the last decade, and tenants require a first-class experience. Adding a first-class office experience to the market would help stabilize downtown’s office market and compete to attract new tenants to the City. With the right vision, it could stabilize the area, attract new employers, and strengthen downtown Cleveland’s position as a hub for modern office users.
Number Four: IMG Building (1360 East 9th Street)
After years of litigation and receivership, the IMG Building remains in limbo. Its location near major downtown employers and transit makes it one of the most strategically positioned properties in the city. Unlocking its potential will require clearing legal hurdles and attracting developers with a long-term plan. Redevelopment here would not only stabilize a high-profile site but also signal to the market that Cleveland is committed to advancing its urban core.
Number Five: 800 Superior Avenue
Mostly vacant and facing uncertainty, 800 Superior is another property with significant potential. The 23-story building occupies one of the best locations downtown. AmTrust may relocate when its lease expires in 2026, and the closure of the parking garage adds urgency. Much like 1100 Superior, a targeted refresh of the office space could regenerate the building and add a competitive asset to the downtown market. Prioritizing this site now could turn it into a signature address that supports downtown’s long-term vitality.
And Two More to Watch
925 Euclid
The recent announcement that 925 Euclid is going into receivership marks another twist in the decade-plus long attempt to revitalize this historic property. This massive building carries substantial Historic Tax Credits and Transformative Mixed-Use Development Tax Credits awards. A creative funding and development strategy will be necessary for whomever next takes on this project.
Celebrezze Federal Building
The Federal government announced its intent to dispose of this building last year and has been moving offices out of the building ever since. While the timeline for disposal is still fluid, this will be a significant entry onto the market. Given its historic use and security features, it may be an opportunity for governments or institutional users to consolidate operations.
Why It Matters
These projects have the potential to define Cleveland’s next era of growth. Real estate is constantly shifting and markets need their buildings to adapt and respond. Moving these projects forward will create jobs, draw investment and expand the city’s revenue base, with benefits that reach far beyond downtown. If these properties remain idle, the momentum Cleveland has built could stall. If they are redeveloped with vision, they can serve as a foundation for decades of growth.
Cleveland needs bold ideas, aligned public-private partnerships and developers willing to think long term. The time to act is now.
How KJK Can Help
KJK’s Economic Development & Incentives team works at the intersection of real estate, public policy and finance to help projects like these move forward. We guide developers, city officials and community leaders through every stage of the process, from structuring public-private partnerships and securing incentives to navigating regulatory approvals and resolving disputes. Our team has helped bring transformative projects to life across Cleveland and beyond, and we are committed to supporting efforts that create jobs, attract investment and strengthen our community.
If you are involved in a redevelopment project or exploring opportunities in Cleveland’s urban core, KJK attorneys David Ebersole (DME@kjk.com) and Jon Pinney (JJP@kjk.com) are available to connect.