National City reported also in talks with Fifth Third
FROM THE BLADE'S NEWS SERVICES Posted 4-2-2008

NEW YORK - National City Corp., the ninth-largest U.S. bank, is looking to sell itself and is in talks with more than one potential buyer, including Fifth Third Bancorp, people briefed on the matter said yesterday. The talks are preliminary, the sources said.

Media reports have said for weeks that National City was looking to sell itself under the strain of mounting mortgage losses, exposure to the hard-hit Ohio and Michigan real estate markets, and a badly timed foray into Florida.

The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday that National City was in talks to sell itself to Cleveland rival KeyCorp.

Spokesmen for National City, Fifth Third, and KeyCorp declined to comment on the news reports.

National City is looking at a number of options, but a deal with KeyCorp could win a capital infusion from private equity firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co., sources told the newspaper.

A transaction involving banks within Ohio is more likely than a buyer emerging from another region because of the potential for cutting costs through branch closings, said Tony Davis, an analyst with Stifel Nicolaus & Co.

Regulators are unusually receptive right now to combinations "to the extent that they can resolve earnings issues and create stronger financial institutions," he said.

Fifth Third is awaiting regulatory approval for its planned acquisition of First Charter Corp., a Charlotte, N.C. bank with about $4.9 billion in assets .

Damn, this is NOT good. Expect layoffs regardless of whether Keybank or Fifth Third buys the bank (I personally prefer Keybank due to fast online updates). Hundreds were laid off in Northwest Ohio when Skybank was absorbed by Huntington.

Yeah that sucks. My Dad actually owns a National City retail bank building in Toledo. I checked a map, and there's a Key bank about a mile away from it.

The bigger question is how much retail does SW Toledo need? They have the huge strip mall complex at Spring Meadows, and two brand new malls at Fallen Timbers and Levis Commons. It's way too late for Southwyck to redeem itself.

SW Toledo has room for more retail. There is a good population base and it's where the major interstates converge. Travelers from all parts of NW Ohio come here to shop.

The mixed use idea is probably best for the new Southwyck... small or specialty shops, condos/townhomes, restaurants, entertainment options.

Based on how Levis Commons turned out, you can expect that whatever the result, it will at least look really nice... modern architecture, landscaping, a clock tower, fountain, etc. Should class up Reynolds Road big time.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Indeed to give them credit because the DTID does a bang-up job in keeping downtown clean, friendly and safe.

WTOL Editorial

Downtown Toledo is a whole lot cleaner than it used to be. Much of the credit goes to the Downtown Toledo Improvement District. This organization is mostly funded by the downtown property owners. A couple of years ago they decided to make the downtown streets cleaner and safer. Without any help or interference from the city, the clean and safe program was developed. And it has been very successful.

More than 71 tons of litter and debris have been picked up and removed. They have also cut out weeds, maintained the landscaping, pressure washed sidewalks, and kept the trash cans in good shape. They give directions to visitors, discourage panhandlers and keep rowdy kids and skateboarders from taking over.

You gotta admire people who choose action and results over whining and waiting. The next time you're downtown, notice how clean the sidewalks are. It didn't happen by magic, but the results are magical. Well done guys.

Great article with a bit of a historical background; I think they should raze the entire Brand Whitlock along with Port Lawrence and Gunckle Subdivision which surrounds the beautiful St. Patrick Church and clusters in the area along Indiana Avenue from Washington to Collingwood and rebuild it with mix-use developments (combination of commercial, retail, housing, with schools) with market-rate and subsidized single family homes or brownstone-like developments, with mixed-income it would improve the livelihood of the low-income population to get the school training, better access to jobs, get them off welfare support and safer surroundings. It would enable to enhance quality of life. The architectural structure of these housing complex are pathetically designed and very military-1950s-look to it.

The brand new TPS Libbey Middle School on Nebraska/Junction/Collingwood is the step in the right direction, now we need to raze the rest and redevelop all the complexes to more "green-like" concept (i.e. pedestrian access, mini-transit station, bike trails, parks, etc, etc) and mixed-urban village concept which would be friendly to all income brackets.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Just 6-8 months ago the company received tax abatements, chose to re-invest, and stay in Fostoria. This is pretty somber that really reflect the national economy and the gas prices.

Fostoria's ThyssenKrupp closing; Idling 359 workers
Company consolidating operations to Danville, Illinois due in part to transportation costs
Posted on WNWO 24 Website 4-4-2008

Officials with ThyssenKrupp told workers Friday that the Fostoria plant will close by November 2009, costing the community over 350 jobs.

A spokesperson for ThyssenKrupp Crankshaft said they would consolidate operations into a single plant in Danville, Illinois. The spokesperson said that by November 2009, all heavyduty forging and machining operations will be moved to Danville.

The company spokesperson said that layoffs will start within the next 18 months. He said the transportation costs are partially to blame for the need to consolidate the two plants. Currently ThyssenKrupp moves parts from Illinois to Ohio.

The ThyssenKrupp Crankshaft plant in Fostoria employs 359. No word on how many workers will be offered jobs with the Danville operation.

The Fostoria and Danville machining plants produce crankshafts for the North American heavy-duty automotive, truck and engine markets.

I'm wondering with the lack of reporting on both sides in this story whereas the new movie theatre opened up earlier this year at Shops at Fallen Timbers should be considered to this decision. Also I certainly hope the Showcase Cinema would provide independent movies at Franklin Park and Maumee because there is a market for those type of movies. Super Cinema shows both older big-box movies and independent films, I could care less for the older movies but independent screening should be retain.

Super Cinema May Be Closing
Posted on WTVG ABC 13 Website 4-5-2008

Super Cinema, a discount theater and also one of the oldest movie theaters in the Toledo area, might be closing.

To a lot of people, buying a movie ticket is a luxury. In a tough economy, that's one luxury some are doing without, and it's affecting the Super Cinema in Holland.

The company operates more than 1500 movie screens around the world. That includes most of the theaters in northwest Ohio from the newest addition at Fallen Timbers to the Super Cinema, a discount theater and also one of the oldest movie theaters in the Toledo area.

When 13abc asked Super Cinema manager Tom Morman if his theater was closing, he said he couldn't comment, and a press release would be sent out Monday. So 13abc tracked down the National Amusements spokesperson out of Boston and asked her. She also said she would not confirm any details about a closing until Monday.


However, Super Cinema employees tell a different story, their bosses made it clear to them the theater would be closed by the end of April, and they'd all be given the option to move to a different theater.

Bottom line is, your option of catching a flick at a bargain price is about to disappear. You can catch a fairly new movie at Super Cinema for $2. The average price for a ticket at other area theaters is $10.

Kramer Enterprises expands in Findlay
Management process streamlined through Six Disciplines program
Posted on Toledo Business Journal Website April Edition

Kramer Enterprises, Inc. is a Findlay-based, family-owned business led by Paul Kramer, his wife Pam Kramer, and their children, Andrea Kramer Fetterman and Rich Kramer. The firm consists of seven separate entities, including three real estate divisions and four operating companies – City Uniforms & Linens (a corporation on its own), City Apparel (a Women’s Business Enterprise-certified organization run by Pam Kramer and Kramer Fetterman), and two dry-cleaning companies located in Findlay and Jackson, Michigan.

Over the past seven months, Kramer Enterprises has not only endured a devastating flood, but it has also continued to invest in northwest Ohio with the construction of a $2.5 million expansion.

August’s flood [as well as recent flooding earlier this year] caused little damage to Kramer’s dry-cleaning store and five-acre City Uniforms & Linens facility. “If you look at the overall picture, the facilities weren’t damaged, but people couldn’t get in or out,” Kramer Fetterman stated. “So we were a couple days behind.”

Additionally, a City Apparel software upgrade designed to enhance technology and selling capabilities was put on hold until last month.

However, the company’s 15,000 square foot headquarters, located on the north side of the Findlay Inn & Conference Center, suffered significantly from the flooding. More than four feet of water rendered the building unusable and forced personnel to escape through a back door.

“The good news is that our team has always been prepared for a flood,” stated Paul Kramer. “We knew we were in a low place and we practiced [removing essential items before the rain came].”

The week before the flood, Kramer, his family, and his staff moved warehouse and technology materials as well as 14 office members to suites in a hotel along I-75.

“The big damage was the separation of office staff, living out of boxes, and communication problems with connectivity,” explained Kramer Fetterman, director of corporate image consulting for City Apparel.

Paul Kramer added, “For me, the biggest problem is finding a place to meet [with staff].” He and Kramer Fetterman are currently working out of their respective homes while the company continues to get back to pre-flood operations. “It’s impossible for me to operate the way I’m accustomed to operating.”

According to Kramer, the damaged building, which the company rents, is empty and will not be repaired. The firm is now focusing on its 24,000 square foot expansion at City Uniforms & Linens, which was being planned before the flood but was moved up, timing-wise, once the devastation occurred.

“We were overcrowded in our office and ready to make a move, but kind of sitting on a fence,” he stated. “We were probably a year or two away from doing [the expansion], and the question was whether to do this whole thing or not.” But, after the flood, the company was practically forced to move forward with the expansion immediately.

The addition will mirror the current building. Approximately 10,000 square feet of the expansion will be used for warehousing, 8,000 square feet will be used for additional production, and about 6,000 square feet will be constructed into an office and break room. The break room will include a significant amount of glass that will look out into an outdoor wooded area, also designed for employee use. The top floor is going to become a warehouse for garments on hangers. All sewing equipment, currently downstairs, will be moved upstairs. “It’s going to be fed by conveyers so people won’t [have to] move,” Paul Kramer stated. “The garments will come and go from work stations. It’s going to be a really nice setup.”

Additionally, the embroidering station, which is currently tucked into a corner of the facility, will be given more room and new embroidering equipment will be added as well. The new warehousing space will serve City Uniforms & Linen for its warehouse needs and City Apparel will strive to grow in its fulfillment business.

The existing space will also be renovated in order to flow into the new building and feel like one facility. “When we’re done, we’re not going to have a new building and an old building. Everything is going to look the same,” Paul Kramer explained. High ceilings and decorative lighting is designed to liven up the building as well.

The project architect is RCM Architects and the general contractor is Alavada (ACI Construction Company, Inc.). First Federal Bank and the SBA are providing financial assistance for the expansion as well.

Kramer is also investing a significant amount of money into new equipment. For example, a $250,000 system will be used to pre-treat 100% of wastewater before it is sent back to the City. Additionally, the lighting systems will use “green” technology and existing lighting systems will gradually be replaced, too.

“We can reuse water, so it will be a good amount of energy saving,” stated Rich Kramer, City Uniforms & Linen territory manager.

Paul Kramer added, “We’ve been in the reuse business for a long time.” For example, the company uses a $1 million, 40-foot long tunnel washer that uses a conveyer system to save water and human energy. Additionally, the plant will be installing new conveyer systems for use with its existing conveyer operation. An $80,000 washer extractor and $150,000 in conveyer technology are included in the project plans.

Once the project is complete, the facility will have close to 80 employees.

“A lot of neat opportunities are coming out of this,” Paul Kramer continued.

In order to help strengthen the company as it grows in size, Kramer Enterprises has also used the resources of Six Disciplines, a business excellence program and Kramer customer.

“Six Disciplines has been a very strong partner for us,” Kramer Fetterman stated. It has “basically streamlined our whole management process and made sure everyone’s a bit more connected with the end goal.”

Rich Kramer added, “It has created a lot of opportunities for us. It’s a good selling point to let people know that you’re focused and you have a plan.”

For Paul Kramer, Six Disciplines is a succession tool to train the next generation that will be running his business. He stated, “Rich was coming in the door, [and I wondered] how I would give him my 30+ years of information, Andrea’s 10 years of information, and Pam’s 30+ years of information.”

Six Disciplines also assisted Kramer in organizing its staff and creating a feedback system for personnel. Kramer now has quarterly “engage the team” meetings and a 10-year vision for the company.

“I think people are truly engaged,” Paul Kramer continued. “Our productivity has gone up, people are focused, they are asking us good questions, and they are asking us how [the expansion and growth are] going to impact them… It has really been an excellent team building tool.”

Kramer Fetterman added that the Six Disciplines approach has also allowed Kramer Enterprises to create a platform for communication and an open forum between the boss and personnel.

Kramer has now been working with Six Disciplines for a year and a half. It has helped Kramer find “ways to involve the whole organization,” Paul Kramer stated. “Not only our internal organization, but our external customers that hear about our [partnership] with Six Disciplines and see our plan and what we communicate to them about our mission statement, etc.… I’ve got the great leadership of Eric Kurjan (president and owner of Six Disciplines) helping.”

“I’m really pumped up,” Paul Kramer concluded. “Sales create opportunity, and opportunity creates more jobs. And that’s what we’re all about.”

market-rate and subsidized single family homes or brownstone-like developments

That's what I would want for the apartment project area around I-75. I want something urban and not wasteful. There's nothing worse than the suburban apartment projects right in the middle of the city. Every city in the Midwest has them, and I pray to God Toledo doesn't build any more of them.

Brownstones would be awesome, and use the land most wisely.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

WHEW! Thank goodness they will be relocating the "Art" & independent films to other theatres. :)

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

FINDLAY — City officials say a $90 million office, retail, residential, and recreational development planned at what once was a dump is the optimum way to clean up the contaminated site, get it back on the tax rolls, and boost the local economy.


wow, way to go Findlay. Looks like a great infill project.

Downtown Toledo Block to Get Facelift
$4 1/2 Million Project Planned
Posted on WSPD Newsradio 1370 website 4-9-2008

A downtown Toledo block is about to get a $4 1/2 million dollar facelift. Newstalk 1370 WSPD's Kevin Milliken has the details. WSPD has learned two 100-year old buildings near Monroe and Erie sold last month to a Toledo developer for $300,000. Plan commission documents show ALK Enterprises is proposing to renovate a vacant building and an old warehouse into market-rate apartments and retail space. The developer is asking for a zoning change and plan approval Thursday.

That's absolutely fantastic. The more people we get living downtown, the more likely retail and entertainment will soon follow.

Will those market rate apartments be condos for sale or apartments for rent?

It seems like all the housing downtown is either subsidized apartments for rent or condos for sale. It makes it hard for someone like me to live there. I am not interested, nor do I have the money to buy a condo, and I do not fit into the government subsidized housing.

Toledo's Fiberglas Tower inching toward redevelopment
Posted on WTOL 11 website 4-10-2008

TOLEDO -- Activity is heating up to redevelop the Fiberglas Tower. Owens Corning pulled out of the 30-story building in the late 90s.

Recently, conversations have been ongoing with state officials toward creating a public/private partnership to redevelop the tower. On Friday of last week, the Lieutenant governor toured the building with Mayor Finkbeiner and Commissioner Pete Gerkin as well representatives of the Ide company. Ide is the Lansing, Michigan firm who owns the building. They have been pushing for a mixed-use redevelopment project that includes office space, a hotel and retail and residential space.

There are still major hurdles to overcome. Environmental clean-up, elevators, and HVAC among other projects. But progress is being made and conversations among all parties are continuing.

Another step forward for Marina District
Final plat drawing unanimously approved
By Rob Packard Posted on WNWO 24 website 4-10-2008

In the next few months, you should start seeing the start of construction.

On Thursday, the Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commission unanimously approved the final plat drawing for the Marina District along the Maumee river.

The move means developers can start selling ten lots.

The project will be a place where people can live and shop.

"It contains 20-thousand square feet of retail space, neighborhood services type retail and 220 rental units above that retail space," said Sarah Penner, Marina District Project Manager.

The project engineer says the development will mean a "significant" number of jobs.

"A lot of employees, a lot of construction employees, then the next step is with retail employees working in those various retail and commercial buildings," said Mike White, Marina District Project Engineer.

Developer Larry Dillin will start selling lots for this $18-million dollar phase.

Most of the new riverfront drive park should be finished by the end of the year. Landscaping will continue through next spring. The entire project is expected to take 10 to 15 years.

Construction at the Marina District Begins
Posted on WTVG 13 website 4-10-2008

Today, the Plan Commission unanimously approved the latest and final plot plans for the project; 85 acres of mixed use along the Maumee.

Construction at the Marina District begins within weeks. For more than 50 years, Brenner Marine has sold, serviced, and stored boats along Toledo's downtown waterfront. But the company is now setting sail and moving downriver to another marina.

"Everything but the building itself. We've got to move parts, boats office furniture, everything tools," says Tim Selz of Brenner Marine.

Brenner is the last piece of the puzzle. The old Sports Arena is a pile of rubble. The King Bridge has been widened and strengthened, and the old Brownfield on the east side has been scrubbed clean.

Obviously, the Marina District is forcing this move, but Brenner Marine believes when this project gets underway it will reinvigorate interest in the downtown waterfront, probably inspire new boating as well.

Today, the plan commission unanimously approved the latest and final plot plans for the project; 85 acres of mixed use along the Maumee.

"This is going to allow us to start creating lot, start creating parcels to sell off to developers to start building," explains Sarah Penner, project manager of Dillin Corp.

The first visible construction is along the riverfront with a public park and walkway. The initial phase could begin very soon.

"Riverside Drive and Riverside Park bids are going to come May 6th," says project director Mike White.

By Christmas, the Riverwalk will be more than a rendering but reality. Before any of it begins, one of Toledo's oldest buildings will have raised anchor and shipped a couple miles upriver.

So after more than a decade of rumor and years of preparation, the $320-million Marina District Project is about to take shape. It will take another decade to finish but the work begins in May.

Fifth Third Bank gift continues to revitalize Downtown
By Christine Senack
Special to Toledo Free Press news@toledofreepress.com

In early 2001, local leaders of Fifth Third Bank (Northwest Ohio), enthusiastic about the potential of business development in Downtown Toledo, proposed to their Cincinnati-based corporation a

$5 million philanthropic investment in a new ballpark for the Toledo Mud Hens. While some of the funding was to come from bank marketing and sponsorship dollars, the majority of the funding was proposed as a gift from the Fifth Third Foundation.

Founded in 1948, Fifth Third Bank was the first financial institution in the United States to establish a charitable foundation. Its mission is to make strategic grants that build a better tomorrow in the communities served by the bank. Karen Fraker, senior vice president of marketing, said, “The project was supported by the foundation because of the impact the ballpark would have on Downtown revitalization.”

“The investment Fifth Third Bank made in Fifth Third Field has been successful beyond our dreams,” said Robert W. LaClair, president and CEO. “Downtown is where we live as a business. We wanted to see Downtown prosper and we still do. The growth in the warehouse district has been the proof that we did the right thing for Downtown revitalization.”

With the arena under way, LaClair said he believes it can only get better.

Outside the fence at Fifth Third Field, the impact of the gift is strongly felt and appreciated six years after the first opening day. Ann Albright opened a Swan Creek Candle Company retail store a block away from the main gate and credits Fifth Third Bank in her decision to do so.

“I never would have done it had Fifth Third not participated with the ballpark. Period,” she said.

Since then, Albright has moved her distribution and Internet store operations into Downtown, reasoning, “If they can make that kind of investment, why can't I?”

Downtown business owner Gary Resnick of LaSalle Cleaners said, “We are all winners because of this. Fifth Third Field has brought many people from the outlying areas and given me great exposure to people who never came Downtown before.”

LaSalle Cleaners has been based in Downtown Toledo for 75 years. Resnick also serves on the Downtown Toledo Improvement District board and said he believes the impact of Fifth Third Bank's gift is clearly visible.

“Anyone who has come out to a Mud Hens game understands how important it is,” he said. “It is a very positive thing.”

Within the past year, several businesses have made the decision to move into the Downtown Warehouse District surrounding Fifth Third Field. Ken Wood moved Martin+Wood Appraisal Group into a renovated building on St. Clair Street. Wood said he believes Fifth Third's philanthropic investment into Downtown “transformed the Warehouse District into an exciting and entertaining place where people work, live, shop and have fun.”

A business in the process of moving from Sylvania to Downtown Toledo, where they will build a 4,500-square-foot showroom, is the Dreamscape Group, an upscale home remodeling company. Andy Parish and his business partner, Matt Genot, are passionate about the development of Downtown.

“If it was not for Fifth Third's commitment to Downtown, we would not be moving here,” Parrish said. “Ten years ago, Downtown was nothing like it is today. In 10 more years it will be incredible.”

Fifth Third Bank gift continues to revitalize Downtown
By Christine Senack
Special to Toledo Free Press news@toledofreepress.com

In early 2001, local leaders of Fifth Third Bank (Northwest Ohio), enthusiastic about the potential of business development in Downtown Toledo, proposed to their Cincinnati-based corporation a

$5 million philanthropic investment in a new ballpark for the Toledo Mud Hens. While some of the funding was to come from bank marketing and sponsorship dollars, the majority of the funding was proposed as a gift from the Fifth Third Foundation.

Founded in 1948, Fifth Third Bank was the first financial institution in the United States to establish a charitable foundation. Its mission is to make strategic grants that build a better tomorrow in the communities served by the bank. Karen Fraker, senior vice president of marketing, said, “The project was supported by the foundation because of the impact the ballpark would have on Downtown revitalization.”

“The investment Fifth Third Bank made in Fifth Third Field has been successful beyond our dreams,” said Robert W. LaClair, president and CEO. “Downtown is where we live as a business. We wanted to see Downtown prosper and we still do. The growth in the warehouse district has been the proof that we did the right thing for Downtown revitalization.”

With the arena under way, LaClair said he believes it can only get better.

Outside the fence at Fifth Third Field, the impact of the gift is strongly felt and appreciated six years after the first opening day. Ann Albright opened a Swan Creek Candle Company retail store a block away from the main gate and credits Fifth Third Bank in her decision to do so.

“I never would have done it had Fifth Third not participated with the ballpark. Period,” she said.

Since then, Albright has moved her distribution and Internet store operations into Downtown, reasoning, “If they can make that kind of investment, why can't I?”

Downtown business owner Gary Resnick of LaSalle Cleaners said, “We are all winners because of this. Fifth Third Field has brought many people from the outlying areas and given me great exposure to people who never came Downtown before.”

LaSalle Cleaners has been based in Downtown Toledo for 75 years. Resnick also serves on the Downtown Toledo Improvement District board and said he believes the impact of Fifth Third Bank's gift is clearly visible.

“Anyone who has come out to a Mud Hens game understands how important it is,” he said. “It is a very positive thing.”

Within the past year, several businesses have made the decision to move into the Downtown Warehouse District surrounding Fifth Third Field. Ken Wood moved Martin+Wood Appraisal Group into a renovated building on St. Clair Street. Wood said he believes Fifth Third's philanthropic investment into Downtown “transformed the Warehouse District into an exciting and entertaining place where people work, live, shop and have fun.”

A business in the process of moving from Sylvania to Downtown Toledo, where they will build a 4,500-square-foot showroom, is the Dreamscape Group, an upscale home remodeling company. Andy Parish and his business partner, Matt Genot, are passionate about the development of Downtown.

“If it was not for Fifth Third's commitment to Downtown, we would not be moving here,” Parrish said. “Ten years ago, Downtown was nothing like it is today. In 10 more years it will be incredible.”

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/ABLEHeadquarters.jpg

Posted on the City of Toledo website 4-11-2008:
Once the façade program is completed, the building on 140 North Huron will house the non-profit law firms of Advocates for Basic Legal Equality, Inc. and Legal Aid of Western Ohio, Inc. The renovation plans will focus on the preservation of the architectural highlights of this 1926 building. Plans include gutting interior to exterior walls, ceilings and floors, as well as form-poured concrete walls, floors and roof and red brick exterior. Usable features, such as stairwell and an elevator shaft will be saved.

The ABLE project will preserve the architectural beauty of the building, while incorporating modern design concepts to ensure a green and environmentally friendly structure in the heart of Downtown Toledo.

This 35,000 square feet building will serve as a regional facility to enhance community services and support for client and community groups and private attorneys.

This is the site where the proposed "scrap-yard" Pull-A-Part company wanted to open up. You can see past posts in regards to story of this thread.

South Toledo Senior Village Proposed
At Former Haughton Elevator Site
Posted on WSPD Newsradio 1370 website on 4-11-2008

An eyesore along the Anthony Wayne Trail may soon be cleared for a senioer village. The owner of South Toledo's former Haughton Elevator site says the rubble there now will be cleaned up by the end of summer. Craig Valentine was successful this week in having the property re-zoned to make way for the senior housing complex, which includes apartments and assisted living. The plan goes before city council next month.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

New life at old building
Historic building gets new tenants
Posted on WNWO 24 website 4-12-2008 By Matt Trezza

DOWNTOWN -- A piece of Toledo’s history is a standing a little taller tonight. The Oliver House, one of the city's oldest buildings, has a new tenant. The Oliver House already houses four restaurants, two bars and several apartments. Now, the historic Toledo building also welcomes an art gallery and a theater company. Players of the North Coast Theater performed for an opening day crowd at the Oliver House. The historic complex on Toledo’s waterfront is the newest home to the theater, the Blue Heron Art Gallery and the M.J. Erard Fine Art Gallery. Patricia Appold, one of the building's owners, says it's a dream come true.

"It's a commitment to the arts, which we've wanted to do,” she says.

The Oliver House occupies a unique place in Toledo history, but there was a time it all might have been lost. Since 1859, the Oliver House has been a brewery, a hotel and a publishing house. But before Appold and her husband bought it in 1990, the previous owner planned to tear it down.

"[He] was ill and probably felt the best thing for the building at that point, when he couldn't care for it any more, was demolition,” she says.

Since then, Oliver House has had a renaissance, and the building's new tenants are happy to be a part.

"I would like to be able to help them and give them a venue that's as beautiful and historical as this building,” says Mary Jane Erard, the gallery director.

"I don't think I have words for it,” says theater director, Christine Child, “I could skip, hop, dance!"

The Oliver House is the oldest commercial building in the City of Toledo. The new galleries are free and open to the public.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Does anybody know what's going up on Talmadge right next to where Smokey Bones used to be?

Got out n did some walleye fishin down at Orleans park in Perrysburg yesterday got two 20 inch jacks in about 4 hours fishin..... not complainin even tho the water was up about 2 feet. Anyway on the way out there we passed whatever is going on near Pilkington on miami st. I know it was talked about before in here.. Some sort of 5th 3rd project? Whatever it is theres been a lot of dirt moved and sewers are being put in/completed in some areas.......

Also found a site/article about Savage halls renovation.... lost it cuz my computer froze but theres a pic on the site from march 30? And the inside is tore up... Looks like it should be on schedule

Does anybody know what's going up on Talmadge right next to where Smokey Bones used to be?

I believe it is another strip mall-like development and I'm quite surprised a restaurant or retail hasn't bought up the former Smokey Bones property unless they didn't care for the "rustic" exterior design of the building.

The Miami street project that is financed by Fifth Third Bank is a waterfront housing developments with commercial zoning on the Toledo/Rossford line. The entire property was a former brownfield which will now be put to use for residential/commercial purposes.

Boo-hoo...get over it ya Wood County hicks! We have no business as a government entity to be leasing or renting properties (a waste of tax-payer's money IMHO) and it makes so much sense to house the labs (or any government entity) in a state-owned property and close by the UT Health-Science Campus.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

WOW! The downtown arena project is coming along quite nicely!

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Arena24-15-2008.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Arena4-15-2008.jpg

Developer backs out of waterfront deal
By CATHARINE HADLEY Staff writer
Posted on The News-Messenger website 4-15-2008

PORT CLINTON -- The Puller Group of Indiana is no longer planning to pursue development at the city's Water Works Park.

Port Clinton Mayor Debbie Hymore-Tester held a press conference Monday afternoon to announce the developer has pulled out of the negotiations to build an indoor waterpark, hotel and conference center on the site.

"The Pullers contacted me Friday afternoon," the mayor said. "They felt that it was time to move on." Hymore-Tester said she let members of City Council and city government know about the decision.

"We just couldn't come to an agreement. That's what it boiled down to," the mayor said. "We just couldn't come to terms."
Residents have seen a contentious developer selection process, two referendums placed on November's ballot -- one of which was rendered a non-issue when the ordinance on which it was based was rescinded -- heated campaigns on both sides of the issue of re-zoning the park and objections over the cost of negotiations.

"I'm sure there are going to be a lot of people who are disappointed and there are going to be some people who are going to be very happy that never wanted anything built down there," Hymore-Tester said.

She said the negotiating team will now send requests for qualifications to other developers. "Our negotiating team will meet and go over our options and see where we're going to go from there," Hymore-Tester said.

The mayor said she has not been in contact with the Stonehenge company of Gahanna, which expressed interested in building condominiums, shops and office space on the property.

"We already know what we want on the site," she said, after saying she would still like to see a hotel and indoor waterpark on Water Works Park.

"That's what we'd like to see there, yes, but we'll take other suggestions," she said.

The mayor said she thinks money spent on the process so far has not been wasted. "I don't think it's a dead end. We got the feasibility study. We got the marketability study done. Those are all plusses," she said.

Also at the press conference, Safety-Service Director Robert Berner said he thought the city spent money to get some questions answered, and those answers can be applied to the next developer. "I think our goal is to get the project more site-ready, shovel-ready," Berner said.

According to Berner, the Puller Group walked away from the project because of dissatisfaction with Tax Increment Financing.

"They felt that they could finance and they could do a lot of this project with a TIF," Berner said. "It has to go toward infrastructure, public improvements."

Berner said in other states, TIF can be used in different ways but in this case it could only have been used for sewers, a marina or a pedestrian thoroughfare.

"Their comments repeatedly were, 'How much can we get with the TIF?', and our answer was, 'Nothing,'" Berner said.

"I'm glad that Puller had the foresight to pull out now," said City Council President Linda Hartlaub.

She said she thought the city is in a better position than it was before it began looking for a developer.

"The people of Port Clinton voted 'yes' on the zoning, so the people of Port Clinton want us to move forward on developing that area," she said.

Bass Pro building nearly finished
By Justin R. Kalmes
Toledo Free Press Managing Editor jkalmes@toledofreepress.com

ROSSFORD — It's not often an artist is given 150,000 square feet of canvas with which to work, but that's the case for painter Denny Burkhart.

The Wrightsville, Pa., resident is one of about six independent artists contracted to paint giant murals throughout the new Bass Pro Shops sporting goods store being built near the intersection of Interstate 75 and the Ohio Turnpike. Burkhart's job: Examine photographs of area nature settings and use them as inspiration to turn the store's walls into works of art.

“More times than not it's just a general feel that they give you and than it's a matter of trust,” Burkhart said April 14 while finishing work on an underwater scene.

Burkhart's work is a small piece of the overall look and feel of Bass Pro's vast interior. From front to back, side to side and top to bottom, visitors won't be able to walk far across the 4,563 yards of concrete surface throughout the building without encountering some detail or scene that reflects the outdoors.

“The way they look at it is, it's not just a store, it's a museum,” said Tony Hujik, project engineer for Rudolph/Libbe, the construction firm contracted to build the structure.

Upon entering Bass Pro, visitors will be greeted by 60-foot pine logs wrapped around the building's steel support columns that lead the way to a faux-stone cliff that includes a waterfall, pond and freshwater aquarium that will hold more than 20,000 gallons of water. The store's focal point, the cliff scene, includes several wildlife mounts of animals such as deer, elk, wolves, moose and a cougar. A footbridge beneath the waterfall crosses what will eventually be a holding pond.

Also near the store's entrance is a massive fireplace built with large stones that were shipped from Oklahoma. Rudolph/Libbe masons assembled the structure, Hujik said.

“Typically they have to tear it down two or three times to get the look that they want, and we did it in one shot,” he said.

Several decorative pieces that give Bass Pro its “signature” look were shipped from the company's fabrication shop in Missouri, such as the approximately 100-log structure that surrounds the building's main doors.

Each section of guardrail on the store's second level includes a two- or three-dimensional nature scene.

Even the store's concrete flooring contains some kind of artwork at various points throughout the structure. The surface features etchings made using a hand grinder, metal inlays in the shape of wildlife or animal tracks stamped into it.

Such features make the Bass Pro project unlike any other on which Hujik has worked, he said.

“It's really different in the grand scheme of things because of the detail -— things you can't find on any other job,” Hujik said.

Other notable features inside Bass Pro include two interactive shooting arcades, a deli that will include sandwich, ice cream and fudge shops, a seminar room that may be rented for outdoor education workshops and a 30-yard live-fire archery range.

Be it door hardware, siding or the store's two glass-paneled elevators, many of the buildings elements are trimmed with reclaimed barn wood, fiberglass logs, stamped tin, bark shingles or cedar-based siding.

“Everything is about looks,” Hujik said. “They like that whole rustic look.”

The team entirely made up of union contractors from Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan will turn the building over to Bass Pro May 15, Hujik said. As of April 14, he estimated 85 percent of construction was complete.

Xunlight burns bright for UT licensing, tech transfer program
By Duane Ramsey
Senior Business Writer news@toledofreepress.com

Professor Xunming Deng and Xunlight Corp. have served as role models of how licensing and technology transfer at UT is supposed to work, university officials said.
Deng, a professor of physics at UT, and the 45 employees at Xunlight are working to make some of the most advanced solar panels produced in the country. The technology for the solar panels evolved from research Deng conducted, licensed and patented through the UT Tech Transfer Office.

“Dr. Deng has gotten a tremendous amount of third-party validation, and his success is invaluable as we hold him up to other UT researchers to highlight the type of spin-off companies they can create,” said Daniel Kory, associate vice president for technology transfer at UT.

Kory, Deng and Liwei Xu from Xunlight recently met in UT President Dr. Lloyd Jacobs' office to sign a transfer of equity agreement, giving UT a stronger financial stake in the future of Deng's booming business at Xunlight's new manufacturing facility in Toledo.

“The strong partnership with UT is very critical for Xunlight's commercialization process. The transfer of the company's equity to UT strengthens the ties of both entities,” Deng said. “For UT, the ownership of equity could lead to a significant financial return when Xunlight goes with an initial public offering [of stock].”

Xunlight reflects the best of UT's regional economic development efforts, Kory said. It is a subsidiary of Midwest OptoElectronics Inc., which Deng began in the UT incubator facility.

“Not only is Xunlight a company that helps solidify a photovoltaic cluster in Northwest Ohio, it is also employing highly educated employees, many engineers and physicists from UT in a high-tech industry we're trying to grow in this region,” Kory said.

As researchers try to get their businesses started, Kory said, UT has established incubation facilities and policies to help foster that initial growth. Once various levels of financial success are achieved, the university assumes more equity in the company.

Xunlight is developing its manufacturing facility in Toledo with hopes to begin full production of the thin-cell solar panels late this year or early in 2009, Deng said.

“We are realizing our goals with Xunlight after many years of research and hard work,” said Xu, Deng's wife who also serves as the company's vice president of administration and finance.

Two studies rank UT among nation's best
By Duane Ramsey
Senior Business Writer news@toledofreepress.com

Two independent sources have ranked UT nationally among the top 10 universities in licensing technology and launching start-up companies.

One study ranked UT third in the country among universities for startup companies formed per $1 million of funding. Among universities executing licenses, UT ranked sixth; it ranked seventh in launching startup companies when taking research expenditures into account, according to another study.

The rankings were announced in San Diego at the recent annual meeting of the Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM).

“I knew we were productive, but I didn't realize we were in the top 10. It felt good to be recognized among our peers from around the world,” said Daniel Kory, associate vice president for technology transfer at UT.

The rankings were determined by separate research presented at the AUTM convention.

Brigham Young University (BYU) revealed the No. 3 ranking for startup companies in a presentation. The schools that ranked ahead of UT were BYU and the University of North Carolina.

The No. 6 and No. 7 rankings were determined in calculations by Innovation Associates, an economic development consulting firm based in Reston, Va.

“I am very pleased with the two reports that show UT is a national leader in technology transfer and commercialization,” said Frank Calzonetti, vice president for research development at UT. “This underscores the fact that we are doing an effective job of pulling technology out of the institution and implementing our goal to create an exemplary tech-transfer pathway.”

The report by Innovation Associates showed universities with more modest research budgets and those located in more economically challenged areas are becoming increasingly successful in technology transfer and commercialization.

Academic institutions such as BYU, UT, Iowa State and the University of Akron are more productive in executing licenses and launching startups than some better-known research institutions like Stanford, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of Michigan, said Innovation Associates President Diane Palmintera.

Rankings in both presentations were calculated before UT's merger with the Medical University of Ohio in 2006, Kory said.

“With the merger and recent additions of some new employees, we are poised for continued, accelerated growth in technology transfer at UT,” he said.

Kory heads a small staff in UT's Office of Technology Transfer and Commercialization, which added two new members in 2007.

Mark Fox, who serves as a technology associate, is becoming familiar with UT's entire research enterprise and is working directly with faculty members to identify new inventions and create new invention disclosures.

Samuel Giles, who works as a licensing associate, works with inventors and researchers at UT to license new technologies and patent new inventions.

Stephen Snider serves as director of licensing and contracts.

Sandy Rhoades, the intellectual property administrator, manages the prosecution activities and maintains a history of the more than 300 issued and pending patents at UT. She also manages the accounting for receivables and payables with its law firms, licensees and UT inventors.

The university has launched numerous startup companies including First Solar, a manufacturer of solar panels in Perrysburg, and Xunlight Corp., a thin-film solar cell manufacturer in Toledo.

Earlier this year, ADS Biotechnology Corp. signed a licensing agreement with UT to develop and market a pharmaceutical product invented by a group of UT researchers.

One of the latest start-ups to emerge from UT is SuGanit Systems founded by Praveen Paripati, who, along with three faculty members from the UT colleges of engineering and arts and sciences, is commercializing research and technology for the latest generation of ethanol. Paripati worked with UT Tech Transfer on the licensing of the research and technology for the business that will operate out of the UT Incubator facility on the university's main campus.

Paripati said he chose to locate the business there because ongoing research is being conducted at UT. He is also working with the Regional Growth Partnership to establish the business, which will seek funding in the near future.

Earlier this year, ADS Biotechnology Corp. signed a licensing agreement with UT to develop and market a pharmaceutical product invented by a group of UT researchers.

One of the latest startups to emerge from UT is SuGanit Systems founded by Praveen Paripati, who, along with three faculty members from the UT colleges of engineering and arts and sciences, is commercializing research and technology for the latest generation of ethanol. Paripati worked with UT Tech Transfer on the licensing of the research and technology for the business that will operate out of the UT Incubator facility on the university's main campus.

Paripati said he chose to locate the business there because ongoing research is being conducted at UT. He is also working with the Regional Growth Partnership to establish the business, which will seek funding in the near future.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

LCIC to Employ New Strategy
Water, UT Alumni Key Components
Posted on WSPD 1370AM Newsradio 4-18-2008

The Lucas County Improvement Corporation unveils a new economic development strategy. Newstalk 1370 WSPD's Kevin Milliken has details. LCIC's interim executive director intends to use water as a weapon in the economic development wars-- he'd like to attract businesses from water-starved cities like Atlanta.

The agency also plans to tap into a network of alumni from the University of Toledo-- hoping for tips and referrals on business expansion plans across the country.

I was trying out my brand new camera HP Photosmart M547 today around the neighborhood.

View of St. Clair looking north:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0002.jpg

Mount Patrol stable on St. Clair:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0003.jpg

Redeveloped Toledo Heater Building on St. Clair ready for tenants:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0004.jpg

Art Studio with a dragon sculpture and new architect office (right):
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0005.jpg
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Fifth Third Field with a ballgame tonight:
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Snapshot from Fifth Third Field ticket booth:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0009.jpg

Former Durty Bird now Legend's along with a proposed residential lofts, retail space and art gallery:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0007.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0010.jpg

Berdan Building on Washington and Huron Street--please redevelop ME!!!!:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0011.jpg

Huron Street View looking north with Sam Okun Produce:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0013.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0014.jpg

Former Brenda Body Shop soon-to-be Pizza Papalis:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0015.jpg

Monroe/Huron Block Redevelopment:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0016.jpg

Redeveloping Hannon's Block Building on Monroe/Erie:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0017.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0019.jpg

FOR SALE which you can buy this building and redevelop it--located Monroe & Erie Street across from Hannon's Block Building:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0018.jpg

FOR SALE #2 which you can buy this building and redevelop it--located on Monroe in between Huron & Erie and it's next to the AT&T Building:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0021.jpg

Communica Marketing Building:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0020.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0022.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0024.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/ABLEHeadquarters.jpg

Posted on the City of Toledo website 4-11-2008:
Once the façade program is completed, the building on 140 North Huron will house the non-profit law firms of Advocates for Basic Legal Equality, Inc. and Legal Aid of Western Ohio, Inc. The renovation plans will focus on the preservation of the architectural highlights of this 1926 building. Plans include gutting interior to exterior walls, ceilings and floors, as well as form-poured concrete walls, floors and roof and red brick exterior. Usable features, such as stairwell and an elevator shaft will be saved.

The ABLE project will preserve the architectural beauty of the building, while incorporating modern design concepts to ensure a green and environmentally friendly structure in the heart of Downtown Toledo.

This 35,000 square feet building will serve as a regional facility to enhance community services and support for client and community groups and private attorneys.

Looking from the southwest of the ongoing arena construction on Jefferson/Huron Streets:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0023.jpg

Looking from Huron Streets facing east next to the Lake Erie Building:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0025.jpg

Looking from Superior/Madison Streets facing south next to the Key Bank building:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0030.jpg

Former LOF Headquarters and now it's Hylant Insurance Building looking west:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0026.jpg

Madison Street View looking east which I am standing next to the Huntington Bank building:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0027.jpg

Spitzer Building and Toledo's first indoor shopping mall which has a barber shop, hair salon, Madison Bistro, jewelry store, insurance office, law office, flower shop, printing shop, newspaper stand, and a few vacant space on the first floor--it's quite an awesome experience with decor and everything:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0028.jpg
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http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0036.jpg

Valentine Theatre and Georgio's International Restaurant:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0032.jpg

Redeveloped building at the corner of St. Clair & Adams which houses daycare, Libbey Glass corporate gallery, title offices, Jimmy John's, and various of offices:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0031.jpg

Superior Street View looking south which ends at the ongoing arena construction:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0033.jpg

Redeveloped former Woolworth's building which houses Merit Bank and various offices:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0034.jpg

Adams Street View looking west:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0035.jpg

Walk Wayfinding at the Levis Square:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0037.jpg

Former Owens-Illinois Headquarters now it's National City Bank building:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0038.jpg

Former Toledo Trust building now it's Riverview Apartments:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0039.jpg

View of Madison Street looking west which showcases the beautiful Ohio Building:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0040.jpg

Modern-looking view of Summit Street facing north:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0041.jpg

Water Street view looking north:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0049.jpg

Propylaea Sculpture at Promenade Plaza with signage:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0047.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0048.jpg

Finished Dr. Martin L. King, Jr. Bridge (Cherry Street):
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0050.jpg

View of the downtown skyline from riverside with former Portside Marketplace--please redevelop it back into a downtown regional shopping mall/entertainment center:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0051.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0053.jpg

The One Seagate Tower, Crowne Plaza Hotel, and Citiwalk Concorde is all undergoing renovations and redevelopment with a price tag of over $25 million investment; now I am waiting for Portside Marketplace to reopen and Water Street Station Lofts to begin construction since they are all connected to one another:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/HPIM0052.jpg

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Awesome pics Bonjour thanks a lot! I hear Granderson may be down with Toledo on a rehab assignment so hopefully that draws some more fans to the park today .... Got any pics of the Lousiville Title building? mom used to work there (for Demuth and John) an I believe my sister worked there for Port Lawrence....... The slanted windows make it look cool from a few blocks away.......

Oh yea in Oregon, the old Mr Beefys is beeing converted into another restuarant.....Was the guy who owned Beefys the same guy that owned Fat Freddys?? Also the old Taco Bell in front of Kingston Court Apartments is bein converted into 2 commericial spaces

Awesome pics Bonjour thanks a lot! I hear Granderson may be down with Toledo on a rehab assignment so hopefully that draws some more fans to the park today .... Got any pics of the Lousiville Title building? mom used to work there (for Demuth and John) an I believe my sister worked there for Port Lawrence....... The slanted windows make it look cool from a few blocks away.......

Oh yea in Oregon, the old Mr Beefys is beeing converted into another restuarant.....Was the guy who owned Beefys the same guy that owned Fat Freddys?? Also the old Taco Bell in front of Kingston Court Apartments is bein converted into 2 commericial spaces

I don't have any pics of the Louisville Title Building on Erie & Madison, but I will make it a trip soon for the next round of snapshots along with progress at Franklin Park, Fallen Timbers, Bass Pro, Fed Ex, and Levis Commons.

In terms developments in Oregon, I'm pretty clueless at this point.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

I was just askin if anyone knew about the owner of beefys/fat freddys beacuse my friend worked at fat freddys and they went under the owner ended up going to jail and my friend never got his w2's sent from them.....I heard the guy that owned fat freddys also owned beefys

Went to the game last night... Hens got pretty roughed up.... Granderson was doin ok though..... Lots of people for a rainy night game...

I was at the Hens game on Saturday too. Granderson looked good, but just about no one else could get a hit. The other pitcher, Homer Bailey, is one of the Reds' top prospects though.

Great pictures as usual!

Thanks for the photos Bonjour. As a fan of urban architecure and historic buildings Toledo has a lot of eye candy for me, esp the warehouse district and DT. I personally don't give a crap about perrysberg and timber whatever. But this forum isn't about me is it? :lol:

Thanks for the photos Bonjour. As a fan of urban architecure and historic buildings Toledo has a lot of eye candy for me, esp the warehouse district and DT. I personally don't give a crap about perrysberg and timber whatever. But this forum isn't about me is it? :lol:

Now if we can only recruit the rest of the Toledo into that frame of mind...we'd be set :).

Now now folks, we "must" embrace the area as a whole. :nuts:

Now if First Solar, Xunlight Corp., and Calyxo USA Inc. would join the ranks plus this is a perfect time for First Solar to move their headquarters from Phoenix to Toledo region.

Very good news especially for the Warehouse District neighborhood and the city with the planned developments. It is time for the city to get out of the retail management business and let the market take place.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

As mentioned in the above post in the middle of the Erie Street Market development post, the new Marriott Hotel has opened in North Toledo and the Menards will be opening this summer on Alexis Road. The former Bob Evans on Alexis across from North Towne is now a new mexican-cuisine restaurant.

Also indicating that there will be new developments at the former North Towne Square Mall with direct quote from the Toledo Blade 4-22-2008 article: "Also yesterday, Mayor Carty Finkbeiner - while highlighting new business developments along Alexis Road, west of I-75 - said a businessman could be interested in creating about 1,000 jobs at the vacant North Towne Square mall.

"We have a prospect there," Mr. Finkbeiner said. "It's 800,000-square feet [and] you add [21st Century Super Fitness club] and it's about a million-square-feet. We have an individual who is looking for a million square feet.""

There is also reports from the television news last night that Wal-Mart is looking at North Towne Square Mall and its surrounding area which is a great news because we can suck up all the Michigan folks (Bedford Township's 35,000 residents) to come down and spend their money into our city. Hopefully there will be more developments story in regards to the North Toledo projects as I will post as soon as it becomes available.

Uptown Maumee Shoppers May Soon Need New Grocer As The Pharm Sells Store
BY NANCY GAGNET — MIRROR REPORTER

When it was announced earlier this month that Rite Aid intends to purchase The Pharm and discontinue selling grocery items, many in Maumee were left wondering where they would buy milk and bread.

“I’m going to miss that. It’s so easy to get in and out,” said Nancy Geitgey, who makes regular stops to buy groceries at The Pharm at Golden Gate Plaza.
“I drive down the trail on my way home from work and I stop here all the time,” she said.

Spartan Stores, Inc., of Grand Rapids, Mich., is actively negotiating plans to sell The Pharm to Rite Aid; however, those plans have not been finalized due to a 60-day due diligence period in which the buyer considers the option to purchase.

If a deal is reached, Rite Aid would continue the drugstore portion of the business but discontinue the grocery portion.

Sharon Kowalski of Maumee makes three or four stops each week at The Pharm at Golden Gate for staple grocery items.

“It will be a big inconvenience, but I’ll probably go to The Andersons more,” she said.

“My aunt who lives at Waterside comes here every week to buy her groceries and it will be a big inconvenience for her,” she said. “I’d like to see Maumee have another store to buy groceries.”

Mayor Tim Wagener agrees. “Our concern was to keep a grocery retail in uptown Maumee, but as a city we can’t control private property,” the mayor said.

The Golden Gate Plaza is owned by Trail Investors and leased by Spartan Stores, Inc., which purchased Seaway Food Town in 2000 for $179 million. The purchase included 47 grocery stores and 26 Pharm stores including Food Town and The Pharm at Golden Gate Plaza.

Several Food Town locations were closed in 2003 including the one at Golden Gate Plaza; however, The Pharm remained open.

According to the mayor, Spartan Stores chose to keep the former Food Town site vacant to avoid competition for The Pharm.

“They wouldn’t sublease the location or give it back to the landlord. They continued to pay rent on the empty space so that no stores would occupy the space and compete with The Pharm,” he said.

“There’s no love lost between Spartan Foods and myself,” he said. “They’ve pretty much destroyed the grocery and drug store business in the region and destroyed a lot of lives in the process.”

According to Mark Zyndorf, managing partner of Trail Investors, the owners intended to redevelop the property for some time but had not been able to.
“For the last five years we have tried to redevelop it – we own it but we don’t control the premises,” he said.

Zyndorf said that if Rite Aid takes over The Pharm, preliminary construction, which could take place in September, would include demolishing the site that housed Food Town and positioning a new Rite Aid store at that location.
At that time, The Pharm would either be “utilized or taken down.”

Zyndorf said that those renovation plans would then spark façade upgrades to the east side of the plaza, located on the other side of Gibbs Street.
“So basically it will look brand new,” he said. “We’re hoping to redevelop the whole center.”

City administrator John Jezak reiterated the fact that although plans have not been finalized for Golden Gate Plaza, something would likely happen at that location.

“Although the actual deal remains unsettled, in all likelihood the possibility exists that the building would eventually be demolished and a new Rite Aid would be built,” he said.

Plans for The Pharm located at Parkway Plaza in Maumee remain unclear.

New retail plaza coming to old Sears building site
Posted on Holland-Springfield Journal website week of April 15th

The former Sears automotive building on Airport Highway soon will be demolished and replaced with a new retail plaza. The Springfield Township Trustees approved a site plan on March 17 for construction of a new multi-tenant retail building on the 1.85-acre property.

The site plan for Airport Meadows Crossing, 6720 Airport Highway, shows a 14,200-square-foot building with 84 parking spaces. “The developer is removing an eyesore that’s non-productive,” township zoning inspector Robert Seger told the trustees.

Tom Grubbs of Rudolph/ Libbe Properties, who is developing the property, said it will complement the adjacent building with Chipotle, Panera and Aspen Dental.

I believe it is another strip mall-like development and I'm quite surprised a restaurant or retail hasn't bought up the former Smokey Bones property unless they didn't care for the "rustic" exterior design of the building.

This new building will house Aspen Dental and here's their direct link: http://www.aspendent.com/index.html

Three new retail and a restaurant that will be moving into the expansion portion of the Westfield Franklin Park mall (southeast-side) next to Sylvania Avenue and Royer Road: DSW, Old Navy, and Ulta; at this time no restaurant has been named.

Mr. Finkbeiner in February announced that Tetra Tech would develop a pedestrian-friendly walk along Swan Creek in the area between the Anthony Wayne Trail and the mouth of the creek, which flows into the Maumee River.

Company officials at the time said a 10 to 15-year timeline was being developed.

The first step would be environmental cleanup, Jeffrey Fleischman, a senior asset strategist with Tetra Tech, said earlier this year.

The 50 to 100 acres could include office space, homes, shops, and a waterfront promenade, he said..

If there were ever a place downtown an Andersons market would work best, I think this project would be it. Andersons, like Erie Street Market, is a destination retail establishment.

agreed. and i actually wrote the owner of the Andersons asking him to consider it. He said that downtown has always been on their mind but they are waiting for more people to live down there.

I think it's awesome that Ohio has 59 companies on the Fortune 500 list. That's a real source of strength, especially when you consider how diversified they are compared to many other state's corporate mix.

I think the law that they passed a few years ago phasing out corporate profits in Ohio was a smart idea. Otherwise, I think a lot of them would be fleeing the state right now. Instead of paying 10% of their profits just for being based in the state, companies now only pay 0.6% of their total revenues that they earn in Ohio. Even Strickland is now touting this as a great strength for Ohio, even though his party opposed it.

Anyone else been seein people around town collecting signatures for putting gambling on the ballot?? They were out at the last mudhens game I was at and a friend of mine saw them at westfield...... From what I was told by these guys if this is passed there will be a casino built somewhere between Columbus and Cincinnati. This sint for just slot machines like last time

Anyone else been seein people around town collecting signatures for putting gambling on the ballot?? They were out at the last mudhens game I was at and a friend of mine saw them at westfield...... From what I was told by these guys if this is passed there will be a casino built somewhere between Columbus and Cincinnati. This sint for just slot machines like last time

Its' a terrible idea. They want you to vote on allowing that one casino to be built, between Columbus and Cincinnati, and still not allowing gambling in Toledo. YOU WILL SEE NO BENEFIT FROM THAT GOING TOWARDS THE TOLEDO AREA. If you wanted to gamble, you'd might as well just go up to Detroit than where these people are proposing....its' closer to us.

Toledo's not going to be a big casino destination no matter what. There are 4 large casinos in the Detroit area.

Toledo missed that boat a long time ago. This casino in the SW part of the state is required to distribute its proceeds all over the state, so cash strapped Toledo will benefit. That and it opens up the possibility of more casinos being built later on.

Toledo's not going to be a big casino destination no matter what. There are 4 large casinos in the Detroit area.

Toledo missed that boat a long time ago. This casino in the SW part of the state is required to distribute its proceeds all over the state, so cash strapped Toledo will benefit. That and it opens up the possibility of more casinos being built later on.

I agree, Toledo won't become a big casino destination. That was not my point at all, my main point was the fact that no, it does NOT open up the possibility of more casino's being built later on. The law that is going around DOES NOT legalize gambling, it legalizes ONE casino in a location between Columbus and Cincinnati...why not legalize it across the board?

agreed. and i actually wrote the owner of the Andersons asking him to consider it. He said that downtown has always been on their mind but they are waiting for more people to live down there.

I actually e-mailed Carlton F. suggesting that the City court Trader Joe's into the Erie Street market, as T.J.'s is big on the whole urban revitalization thing in the Eastern market (although they will open stores in malls and sprawl-tastic developments). I actually received a relatively prompt reply, which is nice considering I wasn't expecting one at all. Unfortunatelty, the reply stated that it probably wasn't feasible because there wasn't enough traffic on a day to day basis. I took this to mean that they have already attempted (unsuccessfully) to court T.J.'s, or it damn well better mean that or they aren't doing their jobs (also quite possible).

However, the Anderson's is local. Anderson's Market is a perfect store to go in there. They need to stop thinking in terms of people living downtown. The only Anderson's Market right now is on King in Sylvania. I will probably never go there, not because I have anything against Sylvania, but because its a pain in the ass and a waste of gas to get there. It's not even off the freakin' highway! I don't know what they were thinking with that location, there is a population there but its a) not far from a general Andersons, and b) hard to get to from anywhere but the surrounding area. An Anderson's Market on Erie would draw people from all around due to its accessibility from all over the area. I wish we could convince them; maybe Tetra Tech can??

Those guys told me that it would pave the way for more casinos to open...... And I assure you if a casino opens in Ohio, there will be one built on Put in Bay. When i worked out there I heard the ruler of the one the island empires talking about it.

Toledo's not going to be a big casino destination no matter what. There are 4 large casinos in the Detroit area.

Toledo missed that boat a long time ago. This casino in the SW part of the state is required to distribute its proceeds all over the state, so cash strapped Toledo will benefit. That and it opens up the possibility of more casinos being built later on.

Toledo did not miss the boat. OHIO missed the boat. Toledo (and Cleveland) would have built a casino ages ago if it weren't for the conservatives down south. Gambling is unfortunately a state issue, not local issue. It's the same thing with stripping, etc. Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, etc. all missed the boat and oppress the north with their ultra-conservative politics in their endless white bread suburbia. Ohio is surrounded by states with gambling and more liberal laws. In terms of "sin laws", Ohio is by far the most conservative state in the Midwest, and one of the most conservative in America. It sure as hell is not the fault of Toledo, which aligns strongly with Southeast Michigan political beliefs.

Metro Cincinnati has been spear-heading the recent assaults on freedom and it is the most conservative metropolitan area in America. Citizens for "Community Values" (meaning fanatical fundamentalism) is responsible for the anti-stripper laws and much of the anti-gambling crap in this state. Many Cincinnati-area politicians had influence in the statehouse under Taft, so Ohio basically destroyed itself. Thankfully, that's all changing now, but there's no way in hell a casino will open in Southwest Ohio. The political opposition is far too great. Only the northern counties of Ohio will ever allow a casino.

And I assure you if a casino opens in Ohio, there will be one built on Put in Bay.

That's by far the most logical location and it will benefit metro Toledo since it's in Ottawa County. PIB is already the tourism hub of the state.

agreed. and i actually wrote the owner of the Andersons asking him to consider it. He said that downtown has always been on their mind but they are waiting for more people to live down there.

I actually e-mailed Carlton F. suggesting that the City court Trader Joe's into the Erie Street market, as T.J.'s is big on the whole urban revitalization thing in the Eastern market (although they will open stores in malls and sprawl-tastic developments). I actually received a relatively prompt reply, which is nice considering I wasn't expecting one at all. Unfortunatelty, the reply stated that it probably wasn't feasible because there wasn't enough traffic on a day to day basis. I took this to mean that they have already attempted (unsuccessfully) to court T.J.'s, or it damn well better mean that or they aren't doing their jobs (also quite possible).

However, the Anderson's is local. Anderson's Market is a perfect store to go in there. They need to stop thinking in terms of people living downtown. The only Anderson's Market right now is on King in Sylvania. I will probably never go there, not because I have anything against Sylvania, but because its a pain in the ass and a waste of gas to get there. It's not even off the freakin' highway! I don't know what they were thinking with that location, there is a population there but its a) not far from a general Andersons, and b) hard to get to from anywhere but the surrounding area. An Anderson's Market on Erie would draw people from all around due to its accessibility from all over the area. I wish we could convince them; maybe Tetra Tech can??

Andersons Market is much smaller (and is higher-end) than the General Stores , so I don't think they had planned on drawing people from all over the Toledo market with that particular store. I think they're mainly targeting the high-income residents of Sylvania.

The General Stores are what bring in a diverse range of people from all over Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. They really are "destinations" for shoppers who value the high quality, fair pricing, and good service. Hell, I know people from Indiana who make occasional trips to Andersons just because they can't find many of the products in their own market, and Andersons kicks ass.

Still, I agree that a Warehouse District location would draw from more than just Downtown. Certainly Old West End, Uptown, and other nearby neighborhoods within an easy walk/bike ride from the market would shop there.

UT's alternative energy research sparking attention -- and jobs
Posted on WTOL 11 website April 24, 2008

TOLEDO -- A Toledo company in the business of alternative energy is expected to make a big announcement on Friday, which could mean many new jobs coming into the area, News 11's Shelley Brown reports. Xunlight (Sunlight) Corp. will make the announcement with Gov. Ted Strickland on hand to hear it.

One reason Xunlight is able to make the announcement is the assistance it has received from the University of Toledo, which has become a regional hub for helping businesses that work in the field of alternative energy. Indeed, UT is attracting renowned scientists and students from around the world.

The sun, an endless source of "clean energy," is the perfect research product for UT students interested in the study of photovoltaics (PV).

"The name of the game is to convert the sunlight into the electricity," notes Russian student Victor Plotnikov. Converting sunlight into electricity through solar cell panels is a pollution-free process, he notes.

Graduate students are also trying to improve the performance of solar cells. Instead of using silicon, which is fragile and relatively expensive, they're testing glass and thin metals.

"The real objective is to get the cost down of photovoltaics so that the cost of the electricity generated from the photovoltaics will be as cheap as using nuclear or coal fired power that will be totally clean with no pollution byproducts," says Dr. Al Compaan, UT professor of physics.

Compaan believes what's happening at UT carries with it the potential for economic development in northwest Ohio. Indeed, it has already helped stimulate growth in the private industry, as seen by Xunlight's progress.

"We really see a transformation coming in the way that we live our lives," Compaan says.

Blue collar jobs going green
By Kylie Conway
Posted on WNWO 24 website April 23, 2008

Blue collar jobs from Northwest Ohio are steadily moving overseas. But, "green collar" jobs are coming in...is this the wave of the future? According to the Regional Growth Partnership, in Northwest Ohio there are nearly 6,000 employees in green collar jobs. They are working in the photovoltaic or solar cell “green” industry...a color that many hope will mean more jobs

“I believe it is. I think it's a big part of our future in manufacturing because there's a need for it as you know,” said UAW Region 2B Director.

Xunlight Corporation is a prime example of a green company. It’s an up and coming green production that will make lightweight and flexible solar panels.

“And that can be used for rooftops, portable electronic charges, many applications. Wherever you need electricity this can be used,” said Dr. Xunming Deng, CEO, Xunlight Corporation.

Over the past year the company has tripled its workforce.

“Yeah. We want to grow fast. And we find that Toledo is actually a very good place to grow for our business because there are skilled workers, space available, technological talents here,” said Dr. Deng.

The green corporation has two main work forces.

1. Former automotive and glass industry workers with expertise in the design and construction of production lines.
2. Engineers and scientists that are highly skilled in how to make solar cells. Most of these experts are found at the University of Toledo.
UT is an institution dedicated to its research in solar energy. And, located right in university's backyard is Advanced Distributed Generation, a company that designs and installs solar panels.

“We put 125 man days of personnel on there to complete that job,” said John Witte, Advanced Distributed Generation Vice President of Operations.

Often, these installers are laid-off auto workers or contracted members of Northwest Ohio Building Trades. And Witte says the sky's the limit.

“Right now we're gearing up to hire several people over the next couple years because we predict our business will grow tremendously,” said Witte.

As more and more people and companies are going green, Witte expects to add at least 50 to 100 employees to his full-time staff over the next three years.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

What parcels are they buying besides ESM? I know this probly isnt final yet but can anyone tell me the areas that may be developed? I fish that area a lot. I know it will eventually be better for the river after its all done but hopefully my fishin holes wont be disturbed...... Even if something with this falls through I'd still like to see the area cleaned up...... I can already see and smell a big difference in the river from what they have cleaned up at the marina district.

WOW, that rendering for the Swan Creek project is incredible. That's what I'm talking about!

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

What parcels are they buying besides ESM? I know this probly isnt final yet but can anyone tell me the areas that may be developed? I fish that area a lot. I know it will eventually be better for the river after its all done but hopefully my fishin holes wont be disturbed...... Even if something with this falls through I'd still like to see the area cleaned up...... I can already see and smell a big difference in the river from what they have cleaned up at the marina district.

I believe some of the parcels they are referring to are: the vacant factory along St. Clair Street across from the downtown library, the Water Distribution building on Erie (south of Columbia Gas), the property across from the Water Distribution building on Erie, Erie Street Market, the lot across from Erie Street Market, some parcels along Erie Street going toward Lafayette/Anthony Wayne Trail/Erie Street intersection, and certain parcels along Swan Creek going toward the Maumee River nearby the Owens Corning world headquarters along Summit Street.

Toledo company develops technology for cleaner biofuel
By Duane Ramsey Senior Business Writer
Posted on Toledo Free Press website 4-25-2008
news@toledofreepress.com

A local businessman believes he has the formula for a process and technical expertise to create the equipment for producing a biofuel that does not depend on food-chain material such as corn, burns cleaner than ethanol and requires little, if any, fossil fuel to produce.

Ford Cauffiel Sr., president and CEO of Cauffiel Technologies in Toledo, has developed a process to convert cellulosic plant materials into ethanol or butanol with metal processing machinery his company has built for 55 years.

“We are fully aware of the research and development that is taking place to convert cellulosic materials to ethanol,” said Cauffiel, who began developing his technology in 1978.

The U.S. Department of Energy has granted millions of dollars to companies and universities that are developing various methods for such conversion.

Although Cauffiel's firm did not receive a grant due to a technicality, he said, it is continuing research.

“We have a research contract for $5 million from a New York investment group and received $500,000 after designing the process,” he said.

Cauffiel Technologies is now looking to develop laboratory-size pre-treatment plants for company or university research and development operations to convert cellulosic material to C5 and C6 sugars from algae, corn fibers, switch grass, wood chips and other plant life.

Cellulosic materials are commonly known as lignocellulose or hemicellulose molecules found in plant life such as fast-growing switch grass, which requires little water and grows 12 feet high with roots eight feet deep. Hemicellulose is found in corncobs and stalks known as corn stover, Sorghum trees and even fast-growing algae.

“There are many processes being used to convert cellulosic material into ethanol, but they are costly, require a large amount of energy to burn the material and create pollution,” Cauffiel said.

“Another recent process is using super bugs,” he said. “Everyone knows that fungus and termites love wood.”

Numerous companies and universities are researching the creation of super bugs with genetic engineering. Super bugs chew up wood or cellulosic material quickly and give off ethanol.

“Super bugs can be dangerous and must be confined,” said Cauffiel, who has developed a method known as steam explosion. The steam explosion will speed up the process of breaking down cellulosic material by helping super bugs digest material faster.

Heating the material up to 500 degrees at 500 pounds per square inch on a continuous basis causes the material to explode out of the machine and into a flash tank. The exploded material consisting of C5 and C6 sugars and lignin will be ready for the super bugs to digest easier.

“Once you have a good steam explosion, you can convert the C5 and C6 sugars into ethanol or butanol,” Cauffiel said. “Many scientists and universities around the country have heard about us, and we have received many phone calls about it.”

Because all plant life and wood products burn, the remains from the steam-explosion process can fuel the boiler to make steam and heat the tanks for super bugs with little or no additional energy required. That is a big problem when making ethanol from corn, Cauffiel said.

The challenge is to design and build machinery that will withstand the continuous high pressure and temperatures required for the process. With 55 years of experience designing and manufacturing steel-making processes and machinery, Cauffiel said he is confident his company has the solution.

“Our small plant for universities will be in operation in eight months to a year,” he said.

Once the cellulosic plant materials have been converted to C5 and C6 sugars, there are several possible byproducts, including butanol, which is similar to ethanol and has the same energy content as gasoline.

Ethanol is only about 60 percent as efficient as gasoline. Butanol or bio-butanol delivers clean emissions as well as any fuel, including ethanol, Cauffiel said.

“Butanol is easy to handle because it does not attract water as ethanol does. It can easily be distributed through pipelines whereas ethanol needs to be hauled by trucks from the Midwest where it is produced to refineries on the east, south and west coasts,” he said.

Many companies, such as Dupont and British Petroleum, are working to develop a super bug that is genetically engineered to convert the mixture to butanol that provides the same miles per gallon as gasoline.

“Our pre-treatment process is one of the keys because it breaks down that very strong hemicellulose molecule naturally found in all plant life. Those sugar molecules are protected by a wrap-around of ligneous material, the strongest molecule found in nature. Just look at trees when the wind is blowing,” Cauffiel said.

He plans to explode the micro hemicellulose molecule found in algae or any fast-growing plant life without affecting food crops such as corn. When the super bugs are done eating, they can make butanol that does not require additional energy from gas, coal or petroleum products.

Ethanol fuel production rose 34 percent in the United States during 2007, according to the Renewable Fuels Association, reaching a record high of about 6.5 million barrels. Energy industry experts expect similar growth rates in 2008.

A number of companies are commercializing second-generation biofuels such as butanol that may be cheap and clean enough to replace ethanol. Energy industry sources also report the new fuels could be produced by the same refineries that are now making ethanol.

Butanol is an alcohol that has been produced from petroleum for decades and used mostly as a solvent. It can now be made for less than ethanol and yields more BTUs of energy.

The demand for butanol is expected to increase dramatically since it can be produced economically from lost-cost biomass, according to a study conducted for the U.S. Department of Energy by Environmental Energy Inc. and the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at The Ohio State University.

That study concluded that butanol's application as a replacement for gasoline will outpace ethanol, biodiesel and hydrogen when its safety and simplicity of use are realized.

Not only has Cauffiel realized those factors, his company has also developed a process and is designing the machinery to produce butanol as a cleaner alternative fuel for gasoline.

Local collaboration

Cauffiel continues to seek company or university sources for developing this emerging technology on a local or national level.

“We're always happy to look at anything in alternative energy technologies and see what could be done to develop them here in this region,” said Steve Weathers, president and CEO of the Regional Growth Partnership (RGP).

Weathers indicated the RGP is interested in reviewing Cauffiel's technology as a potential client for its Launch Program or funding through Rocket Ventures. The RGP is already working with SuGanit Systems, a spin-off company developing similar technology in the incubator facility at UT.

Cauffiel's process is similar to the process UT researchers have developed for converting biomass into C5 and C6 sugars and then into alcohol. Researchers at UT are working with SuGanit Systems to commercialize the process licensed through the university, said Sasidhar Varansi, professor of chemical engineering at UT.

“There may be an opportunity for UT's technology and Cauffiel's technology to work in collaboration,” said Megan Reichart-Kral, director of the office of research and development at the Clean and Alternative Energy Incubator at UT.

Reichert-Kral said Cauffiel approached the university to seek assistance in applying for the Department of Energy grants. She referred him to Peter Hug of Recombinant Innovation, a UT incubation tenant who assists companies in developing technologies.

Hug worked with Cauffiel on the grant application with the Department of Energy.

“The next step for Cauffiel's pre-treatment technology is to create a research facility in a university context to develop the entire process for producing biofuels,” Hug said.

He agreed with Reichart-Kral that some type of collaboration between Cauffiel and UT is still something that could happen. Hug said he would be working to facilitate an arrangement between Cauffiel and UT.

Hug founded Recombinant Innovation in 2004 to focus on the application of directing innovation to create successful technology-based startup companies. He previously worked as a research chemist and earned his Ph.D. in molecular genetics, biochemistry and microbiology.

Owens will buy Penta site
Written by By MARIE THOMAS Sentinel Education Editor
Posted on BG Sentinel-Tribune website 4-24-2008

The probable purchase of the Penta Career Center campus by neighboring Owens Community College is moving forward and could be finalized within weeks.

Members of the Owens Board of Trustees' Finance Committee voted unanimously Wednesday to recommend the board support the purchase.
The price has not been released, but the contract is being reviewed by Penta's legal counsel and, for Owens, the Ohio Attorney General's office.
John Satkowski, executive vice president for Business Affairs and chief financial officer at Owens, reported the purchase also would be pending land surveys and a title search. Both he and committee Chairman Jack Sculfort said they foresee the Board of Trustees voting on the purchase as its meeting May 6.

Penta's governing board, which next meets on May 14, also would have to vote on the agreement.
Satkowski said at the trustees' meeting earlier this month that both sides were in "mutual agreement on the price" but were still working out terms including closing date and the date Owens could take possession.
Owens, with about 20,000 students, was a logical buyer of the Penta campus once the vocational school announced it was building a new facility along Buck Road west of Interstate 75. The two schools are now neighbors on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Owens actually is an offshoot of the vocational school's adult education department and when the college was created as a separate entity, Penta leased it the land for $1 a year. That lease runs through 2028. The purchase is expected to include the 28 acres leased by Owens plus the 27 acres that contain classrooms, offices and parking at Penta.

Owens received $12 million from the state toward the purchase and renovation of the Penta property. Satkowski only would say the purchase price was less than that amount.

However, he did add that local funds and additional state monies would be needed to change the usage of the vocational school's facilities to meet Owens' needs. Among the many expenses will be adding fire suppression systems to all the buildings and making the campus compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act codes.

Owens' most-recent capital plan included a request for $3 million from the state in fiscal year 2009-10 to help with renovation costs.
Satkowski hopes Owens will be able to at least use Penta's 400 parking spots this fall, and have some classrooms ready next spring. Owens officials have not announced what programs could be moved to the neighboring campus, but Provost Paul Unger said earlier this month possibilities include establishing a university center where area colleges could hold classes. "Certainly we're considering other programmatic options," he reported at this month's Board of Trustees meeting.

Brian Paskvan, vice president for Administration, led an 18-month study that included surveying Owens employees to determine how the Penta property could help meet the college's needs in coming years. The survey results, he said Wednesday, were very positive.

"The space will work for future programming expansions," he said. The purchase also has led to the development of a master facilities planning committee, which will help determine how the 300,000 square feet at Penta will be utilized.

"We have a far more romantic, enticing chemistry going for us in downtown Toledo than does downtown Columbus," Mr. Finkbeiner said.

One of my all-time favorite quotes.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

I believe some of the parcels they are referring to are: the vacant factory along St. Clair Street across from the downtown library, the Water Distribution building on Erie (south of Columbia Gas), the property across from the Water Distribution building on Erie, Erie Street Market, the lot across from Erie Street Market, some parcels along Erie Street going toward Lafayette/Anthony Wayne Trail/Erie Street intersection, and certain parcels along Swan Creek going toward the Maumee River nearby the Owens Corning world headquarters along Summit Street.

Here are the list of parcels credit to information provided by WUPW FOX 36:
227, 300, 302, 316, 318, 322, 324, 328, 330, 332, 348, 419, 416, 424 St Clair
630 11th
201, 348, 377, 381, 385, 390, 401 Erie
1, 13, 17, 21, 39, 45, 115, 176, 202, 220 Summit
300, 302 Collingwood
233 Oliver
200, 380 Hunt
500 Emerald
406 Williams
337 Broadway
341 Wade
120, 224, 320 Water

Thanks for the info Bonjour I'll have to keep watch on that.. My dad is working that area again so I'm sure he'll hear somethin.

In this weeks metro press theres an article about a new Hotel/Restaurant/reatail space being planned at 2933 and 2935 Navarre ave. Theres already been a zoning change and the restaurant will be a fast food chain that isnt in our area. 3-4 story Hampton Inn type Hotel, nothing else said on the retail....

Also in the same press.... Heckies Pond was finally restocked on Earth Day. 3,000 fish (blue gill, bass, perch, and walleye) were released. Couldnt believe it when they said walleye... The year long clean up of the pond is complete. Looks pretty nice with the new rock wall they put in.

I am disappointed in this one-sided, unfair article in the Blade today about downtown and it's not right to conclude the state of downtown based on a few comments: http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080427/NEWS16/804270302/-1/NEWS

Someone commented about this story on the Glass City Jungle blog 4-27-2008 with a predictable diatribe and I felt compelled to respond:

I have stated time after time in different posts in regards to businesses leaving and businesses opening in downtown and the state of it. This article is so one-sided and it’s amazing they concluded the state of downtown based on a few comments. What about the other comments that can provide a fair view of this story? With high fuel costs, economic downturn, and the war, who doesn’t have problems? We have growing pains as much as any other neighborhoods and suburbs. It’s not all doom-and-gloom as people believe it is.

Quizno’s, Monat, Ken’s Flowers and Divas closed? So what, business is business! Considering in the past 6-8 months there’s been new businesses such as Ottawa Fish House, Harissa’s, Mo Joe’s, Erie Street Chowder House, Legend’s, Toledo Easystreet expanded their business to serve breakfast menu, along with planned developments of Pizza Papalis in former Brenda Shop, opening-soon Dreamscape Home Center on Superior, coming soon Men’s Clothing on St. Clair, new retail clothing in Davis Building, planned steakhouse restaurant next to Fricker’s, opening-soon Ottawa Tavern, Flying Rhino’s Coffee shop at Navy Bistro, and many more developments.

The upcoming Farmer’s Market will be in full bloom on Saturdays and Sundays which is a great atmosphere in the downtown area. Along with festivals, baseball games, parks, river, and convention events with the soon-to-be open first time world-class arena. The quality of life is priceless considering the location which beats wide roads and parking lots any day.

Bartley Lofts made it’s debut since mid-2006 by selling over half of its unit with prices upwards to $400,000+, that’s pretty impressive considering the current housing market. Also RiverWest Townhouses sold over 32 units out of 40 with average price $230,000, and same story goes for Huron Lofts and Ottawa Lofts. The national housing market crisis will slow down the progress of the Triangle Building and steam plant project because it’s expected.

The apartment market of this region is quite fierce and most have an occupancy ranging from 50-85% and it all depends on competition, location, and rates. Foreclosures on apartments are not a new thing considering that’s part of the typical market process across the country. Once the apartments goes into foreclosures other investors will buy it because it is a money-maker short term not long-term that’s why many apartments change owners every 3-4 years which is a normalcy of the business.

We would love to have a grocery in downtown which is not a common scene in most downtown across this country. The Andersons Market, Trader Joe’s or even a smaller Kroger would be a great fit but the downtown residents and small businesses are making long-term goal to bring one here. It would do so well for the central city and even the Old West End folks. Considering how much myself and my neighbors pay for groceries weekly, the business will be good.

I’ve said what I could but I cannot change people’s constant negatitive thoughts toward downtown because they think it’s boring, unsafe, and scary. The paradimn needs to move on from people thinking downtown is nothing nowadays because it’s not the case at all. But sorry for those folks but for me, it’s a huge plus.

I am disappointed in this one-sided, unfair article in the Blade today about downtown and it's not right to conclude the state of downtown based on a few comments: http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll...270302/-1/NEWS

That was a very negative, one-sided article. I expect much better from a paper with the good reputation of the Blade. Your rebuttal was well-written and I pretty much agree with everything you wrote.

With the massive Swan Creek project and Tetra Tech, I think downtown will be very close (or right at) critical mass once it's completed.

Ridiculously one sided. I got wind of the article via SwampBubbles, and the typical Toledo bashing took place, of course. These are people who rarely ever even make it downtown and are against any sort of urban revitalization of Toledo. I LOVE IT. I love going to work in the heart of the Warehouse District and being able to walk to all my clients or walk to an endless number of restaurants -- within minutes. Its' even better when we take out our Segways and ride them around downtown.

The ONLY complaint I have currently is with some building owners downtown. They want to charge an arm and a leg for an abandoned building and do not consider the build out costs, which is a good reason why growth has slowed. I know of several key buildings that have been sought after but the owners want to charge a ridiculous amount. You can't charge an arm and a leg with a downtown in the state that it is in -- which isn't terrible but this isn't Cleveland or Chicago.

Two local TV media news on the Tetra Tech proposal:

Council debates land below proposed riverwalk
Posted on WUPW FOX website 4-29-2008

There were tough questions Tuesday afternoon for members of Tetra Tech, the group trying to develop Swan Creek.

Many think Tetra Tech's $4.2 million purchase of 27 parcels of land will transform Downtown Toledo while others worry about the ground the plans will sit on.

Many consider Swan Creek a real jewel of the area that has an abundance of potential, but the creek's past is industrial.

The concern of what lies below the soil could play a big part in the dea. Before the proposed Swan Creek Riverwalk project become a part of the Glass City waterfront, developers will need to dig up some dirt.

Tetra Tech representatives say their company specializes in projects with contaminated land.

Part of the project costs include a $5000 down payment to the city on a sale of $4.2 million for the 27 parcels of land, which include the Erie Street Market.

The deal will be in the planning stages through Spring 2009, and if it lasts longer some would like to see Tetra Tech put up $500,000.

Even though the $5000 down payment is low, Tetra Tech representatives say they've already spent money on things like title work, surveys and lawyers, which shows their commitment to the project.

The council may vote on the plan the first week of May.


Swan Creek development plans founder on money questions
Posted on WTOL CBS 11 Website 4-30-2008

TOLEDO -- The multi-million dollar plans for Toledo's Erie Street Market and development along Swan Creek go forward but not without some concern over the rather paltry amount of earnest money a California-based company is offering.

Tetra Tech anticipates spending $4 million on shops, living spaces and a boardwalk along the creek. At a council committee hearing Tuesday, some members indicated they'd like to see a larger commitment than the $5,000 Tetra Tech is paying for first dibs on the project.

The company, however, is saying it won't disappoint. "We take that very seriously. We don't want to exceed expectations at this point, but we're very interested in this opportunity," said Jeffrey Fleischman, Tetra Tech.

Toledo City Council won't vote on a new plan for the market until May 6.

Beloved Uptown pub Ottawa Tavern to reopen in mid-May
by Matt Cummings
Posted on Toledo City Paper website April 30th 2008

Those who forget the past may be doomed to repeat it, but those who remember it fondly are in for a treat. Ottawa Tavern, one of Toledo's premier nightspots through much of the '90s, is on its way back. Big time.

With a new location at 1815 Adams Street in downtown's blooming Entertainment District, the new OT has a promising future filling what general manager, Tim Wilford, sees as the bar's special niche in the neighborhood.

"It's a rock and roll bar," Wilford says. "We're looking to provide something different than what's down there right now. Pub St. George on Friday and Saturday nights, they're kind of doing the nightclub thing with DJs and that short of thing. Manhattan's is doing kind of a more laidback music scene. But my goal with our bands is rock and roll. Full bands. Good quality. Bands that have a diverse background. And I think that's how we'll blend in with the neighborhood."

Other bars and restaurants in the area are eager to have the company.

"The more the merrier," says Sara Bennett, manager of Manhattan's. "I think it's good for the area."

Manos Paschalis, who was a pioneering restaurateur in the area when his Manos Greek Restaurant opened in 1982, agrees.

"It's a very exciting thing because all of a sudden, we're creating a critical mass of restaurants and bars. We're very pleased. It creates a cluster, a focal point for the whole area. I think people are going to love it."

But, even with such a promising future, OT's enthusiastic new owner, Tom Baird, is eager to recapture the spirit of the tavern's glory days.

"I have so many friends that went there in the Nineties," Baird says. "I have friends who got engaged there, that sort of thing. So it's just a lot of good memories. This is really geared toward the thirty and over crowd that used to go there and wants a place to go again."

"And," he adds cheerfully, "this place is custom built for a rock and roll band."

In addition to several area bands already booked to perform, including Mas Fina, 56 Daze, and the Frostbite Band, Baird says that a reunion of the original lineup of locally-legendary party band the Homewreckers is in talks for the grand-opening, which is slated for mid-May.

For more information, visit www.otavern.com.

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Updates on Dillin Corp.'s website

We finally have more details and timelines for the Marina District and Southwyck!!

from the site:

The Marina District project will forever change the face of the Maumee River, downtown Toledo and Northwest Ohio.

Today, the Maumee river is alive with activity from the Toledo Rowing Club to private boaters to freighters. The 125 acre Marina District is perfectly positioned across the river from Downtown Toledo with a view of the setting sun over the skyline. The planning & construction is underway - 2007 kicked off the first year with the new Marina in operation. When the Marina District is complete, a passenger ferry terminal, restaurants, & a boardwalk along the river will compliment this upscale docking facility.With 1,500 residential units complemented by a retail & commercial district connecting to East Toledo's Main Street & International Park, the Marina District will add yet another hub of activity to the exciting growth in Toledo.

As part of the much-anticipated de-malling of Southwyck, the enclosed mall will be opened up to a pedestrian friendly open-air center.

The Village at Southwyck will be a mixed-use project consisting of 250 residential units and approximately 600,000 sf of retail. The retail will include two major anchor department stores, a major grocery store and the balance of space to be made up of smaller retailers. With average household income at $63,000 in a densely populated neighborhood of 160,000 people, we are close to upscale neighborhoods and Arrowhead Business Park with over 23,000 employees. We are also close to the Ohio Turnpike Interchange - just one-half mile south. The site is fronted by Reynolds Road, which carries 32,000 vehicles per day. We have positioned this project with the City of Toledo as a major redevelopment with all jurisdictions in total support. Consturction is targeted to begin July 2009 and opening its new doors on September 1, 2010.

http://www.dillin.com/southwyck.html

^^ Thanks for the update Pilliod, great to see two projects on one website.

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Supplier Recruitment Program being launched
Private sector asked to lead economic development effort
Posted on Toledo Business Journal website May 2008 Edition

At the recent Annual Meeting for Northwest Ohio Regional Economic Development Association (NORED), a new economic development program was announced that will provide assistance to area companies. The program will work with businesses in the region interested in having a Supplier locate in close proximity to their area facilities. Participating companies will reduce inbound logistics costs and inventory carrying costs and improve operations with the location of a Supplier in closer proximity.

Lowering an area company’s operating costs will help it to retain local workers, win new business, and create new jobs. New investment and new jobs will also result when new Supplier facilities are recruited to locate in proximity to their customer operations already in the region. The program is being called the Supplier Recruitment Program.

The full program is being implemented in Lucas County. Several other northwest Ohio counties are already using elements of the program.

The Supplier Recruitment Program is being set up by economic development officials as a Lead Generation and Project Recruitment program. One aim of this new program is to work with companies already located in the region to identify when a major Supplier may have a need for a new or expanded facility.

The program has been set up to not only generate project leads for new Supplier facilities, but to also obtain leads for expansion and retention and other attraction projects.

The Supplier Recruitment Program is using a “Wanted Poster” theme as part of its communications effort. The poster includes information about a $3,000 reward being offered for project leads provided by supply chain (purchasing) and other professionals. In order to avoid any possible conflicts of interest, the reward will be paid to a charity of the recipient’s choice.

Leads for potential new Supplier facilities can result in new investment and new jobs in the region. In order to be successful, local economic development officials need the assistance of professionals at area companies to provide these leads that will result in new job growth.

Area businesses are being asked to involve their supply chain (purchasing) professionals and others in their company with this program. They are also being asked to visibly display the “Wanted Posters.” Businesses that do not have purchasing departments are also being asked to display the “Wanted Poster” in an effort to help communicate this program. Every company can provide support to this new program aimed at increasing new investment and new jobs, according to the program partners.

“If we want economic development to succeed in our area, it is everybody’s job,” stated Brent Schlegel, the incoming president of the area chapter of The Association for Operations Management (APICS), one of the partner organizations for the Supplier Recruitment Program. Schlegel addressed the attendees at the recent NORED Annual Meeting where the program was announced.

Information for obtaining the “Wanted Poster” signs and banners can be found at www.toledobiz.com. Toledo Business Journal is providing assistance to this program.

The three economic development partners that are involved in the creation and launch of this new program include Northwest Ohio Regional Economic Development Association (NORED), Regional Growth Partnership (RGP), and the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority. In addition, these economic development organizations have teamed with the Toledo Area Chapter of the Institute for Supply Management (ISM/NAPM) and the area chapter of the Association for Operations Management (APICS) in an effort to involve the organizations’ members in this program. Also affiliated with the program in Lucas County is EPIC, the young professionals organization of the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The program is focused on generating leads from supply chain (purchasing) professionals; company CEOs; general managers of business units; plant managers; operations managers; and other business, education, and public sector professionals that work with outside Suppliers. Every day, professionals in the region are in communication with companies that supply products and services to their organization. Many of these organizations in the area are considered to be major customers by Suppliers providing products and services. Periodically, area professionals learn about a need by a major Supplier for a new facility.

Professionals involved with their organization’s Suppliers are the first to learn when one of these companies is regularly experiencing order backlogs and long delivery cycles. When this becomes regular and is due to capacity shortfalls, the Supplier may be at a point where they are beginning to consider a new facility.

There are other times when professionals in the area learn that a major Supplier is beginning to explore the possibility of adding new products to its line. The company may be a major Supplier for many products and services, but is missing selected products that it decides to add. There are times when area professionals learn that a Supplier is beginning to explore a new facility to produce a new product. The Supplier Recruitment Program is being set up to assist area economic development officials in learning about such Supplier needs.

Area professionals also learn about plans by Suppliers to add new facilities to accommodate new technology, new warehouse and distribution operations, new call centers and customer service centers, new regional and local sales offices, and other new facilities.

One of the organizations involved with the Supplier Recruitment Program is the area chapter of NAPM. The chapter has approximately 178 members, many of whom are supply chain (purchasing) professionals at medium and large industrial firms.

Another partner with the program is APICS. The organization has approximately 105 members around the region. Many of its members are employees of medium and large industrial firms who work in operations and supply chain (purchasing) positions.

In order to be successful, the program is dependent on senior management and other professionals at area businesses and public sector organizations becoming involved and providing these important leads to economic development officials. Leads can be submitted to local economic development offices or to the RGP. Dean Monske, the RGP’s vice-president for Business Development, is coordinating this effort for the agency.

Success of the program is also dependent on the support that will be provided by area businesses and public sector organizations that visibly display the Wanted Posters. These posters will serve as a regular reminder to businesses and others to submit potential project leads to area economic development officials.

The partners launching the Supplier Recruitment Program need the leadership support of professionals in the private sector if new investment and new jobs are going to result.

$44M to be invested in BGSU facilities
Posted on Toledo Business Journal website May 2008 Edition

Bowling Green State University (BGSU) is moving forward on plans for $8 million in renovations to its ice arena as well as construction of a $36 million convocation center – called the Stroh Center. The school is currently in the process of naming an architect for the two projects; the ice arena project is expected to begin in the summer of 2009 and the convocation center will likely begin in 2010 with completion in 2012.

The ice arena and convocation center will be funded through a combination of debt service and private gift support. The private goals for the two facilities are $4 million and $14 million for the ice arena and Stroh Center, respectively.

Initially, BGSU considered building a multi-purpose facility to support both hockey and basketball. However, one facility to meet athletic, recreational sports, and community needs would cost more than $90 million, according to the school.

Another option was a conversion arena that would support basketball and volleyball; the hockey team would compete in the new facility and practice in the ice arena. But, it was decided that, due to the cost of operating and maintaining two ice facilities and the challenge of scheduling the use of the facility, the conversion arena was not the best option for BGSU.

Ice Arena

The ice arena renovation will address three separate areas: infrastructure needs, cosmetic improvements, fan / community amenities, and varsity team needs.

Once the architect is selected and has the opportunity to complete an analysis of priorities and costs, an exact list of improvements will be finalized. An initial list of priorities includes: replacement of the refrigeration system and all mechanical elements tied to the system, repair of the roof and building insulation, repairs to the ice plant, clean-up of the facility exterior, improvements to the landscaping, repaving of the parking lot, replacement or improvement of interior lighting, renovation of existing locker areas, renovation of studio ice space into new locker rooms, conversion of the curling ice into a multi-purpose facility for skating and curling, assessment of ADA access shortcomings, painting of the ceiling, improvement of seating, and updating of varsity team areas.

Additions to the ice arena may include a new scoreboard / video board, a new sound system, a hospitality lounge, a lobby / main concourse, concession areas, a media / press area, and an area that celebrates the history and tradition of the BGSU hockey program.

The ice arena is currently and will continue to be managed by Rec Sports.

Stroh Center

The Stroh Center is named after Kermit F. and Mary Lu Stroh and their family. The Strohs donated $8 million to BGSU in early March to support several initiatives. Approximately $7.7 million will be used for construction of the convocation center. According to the school, the $8 million donation is the largest single private gift in BGSU’s nearly 100-year history.

While announcing the gift in March, Kermit Stroh discussed the convocation center and explained that it is a key project and a chance for BGSU to move beyond its current basketball facility, Anderson Arena. “Anderson Arena is a great venue with wonderful memories, but now is the time for the university to move ahead,” he stated. “Our family decided we’d like to lead the charge in creating a new convocation center for the university.”

The Stroh Center will serve as home to the women’s volleyball and men’s and women’s basketball programs. Depending on funds and design, a practice court for the teams may also be included. The facility will have locker rooms and meeting rooms for each of the three teams, an office suite that houses all three programs and coaching staffs, the BGSU Athletics Hall of Fame, a merchandise store, an athletic ticket office, a media / press area, and a hospitality lounge. Gymnastics and student-athlete support services will move to Anderson Arena.

An approximate capacity of 5,000 seats is the working number for the convocation center.

“The impact that the Stroh Center will have on programs such as men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball is significant also,” added BGSU athletics director, Greg Christopher, at the announcement of the Strohs’ gift. “As we work to advance our athletic programs, our facilities are key to recruiting and attendance. The Stroh Center will be a shining example of BGSU’s commitment to quality.”

Intercollegiate Athletics will coordinate the facility. Additionally, time will be available for outside events (concerts, trade shows, etc.) and high school games.

ConAgra plant is purchased
Written by Sentinel Staff Wednesday, 30 April 2008

LIME CITY - New life is being breathed into the ConAgra facility in Perrysburg Township which closed earlier this year as part of a corporate shift in production.

The roughly 700,000 square-foot facility, where Hunt's Snack Pack pudding was produced and distributed, recently was purchased by a Henry County company for $6.3 million, according to real estate transfers.

The approximately 700,000 square foot facility, located at 29180 Glenwood Road in northern Wood County, was sold for $6.3 million to a company named Perrysburg Distribution Center, LLC.

According to the Ohio Secretary of State's Office, the company filed articles of organization in March. Jerry A. "Tony" Marks, of Napoleon, is the company's agent. He's also president of TMT, a Napoleon-based business specializing in warehousing, packaging, transportation and logistics. ConAgra is one of TMT's customers, according to information on TMT's Web site.
Marks could not be reached this morning to comment on plans for the Perrysburg Township facility. A phone message was left at his office in Napoleon.

About 160 employees lost their jobs when the ConAgra facility closed in January. Production was moved to plants in Iowa and Wisconsin.

City lands landfill jobs and headquarters
By STEPHANY SCHINGS
Posted on Fostoria Review-Times website 5/1/2008

Fostoria's trash is bringing an unexpected treasure to the city.

Live Earth, the company that bought Sunny Farms landfill, is moving its headquarters and jobs to Fostoria. After handing Mayor John Davoli a $25,000 check Wednesday for the Fostoria Festival and Fireworks on the Fourth, Christopher Valerian, president of Fostoria's Live Earth LLC, announced Live Earth is moving its headquarters from New York to Fostoria.

"I'm a small business owner and it's not some anonymous firm out of New York," Valerian said. "And we want to get involved and that's why we've reached out to say we're part of the community."

Davoli expressed support for both Live Earth's donation and the decision to move its headquarters to Fostoria.

"I like to call them our new corporate partner, our new corporate friend in the community of Fostoria," he said.

The landfill staff will amount to 40-50 people, though Valerian said he isn't sure how many of those will be the administrative staff or how many will be coming from New York. Valerian said the move and all of the company's administration and support staff will be in place here by June 1.

Valerian said he has already started hiring in Fostoria: he recently hired a director of finance from Fostoria.

Live Earth was formed in October 2007 for the purpose of buying Sunny Farms. The landfill has been operating under a proposed denial of its license since 2007 due to outstanding EPA violations.

Since taking over the landfill, Valerian said he has been working to fix outstanding EPA issues.

"We've essentially reached an agreement with the attorney general and the attorney general's client is the Ohio EPA, and we are waiting for the permit transfer to finalize the consent order," he said.

The landfill now has two certified engineers on site and is using the best available technology, Valerian added. Live Earth is "one of the largest fully-integrated, independent, non-hazardous, solid waste rail disposal companies in the United States," according to its Web site, www.liveearthwaste.com.

"It's the idea of the company coming here, the headquarters coming here," Davoli said. "And they want to be more of a corporate entity, a corporate friend. That's the big news here."

Valerian, who is from the Cleveland area, said he will build his company from Fostoria, the site of his company's founding.

"I'm an Ohio guy," he said. "I wanted to be involved in the community."

"Our plan is to grow," he added.

This is good news considering the Continental Company laying off 2/3 of the work force end of this year for the southern area of Wood County.

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A couple of the news stations had small pieces on the new arena. They said there will be a finalized plan for the arena sometime in June...... Hopefully they add another webcam then too

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Well looks like one of my fav stores will be leavin Oregon with me..... I remember goin to the pharm on wheeling when it was a foodtown...... Was the best place to get deals on faygo lol....... But yea Ill be movin from Oregon out to Perrysburg by Levis Commons........Yea I know Wood county sucks..... But Im sure Perrysburg will be very happy to get such a model citizen as myself... LoL. Atleast im close to the river and bass pro

More Habitat homes?? Holmes St on the east side has about 6, 2-story homes being built on empty lots along the tracks. I know theres been quite a few Habitat for Humanity Homes already built in that neighborhood not sure if these are as well....... Either way nice to see some new homes built on the east...... Away from the river

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Yay, asbestos! A Toledo favorite. :yes:

CSX to sink $80 million in North Baltimore site
Written by By JAN LARSON Sentinel County Editor
Thursday, 08 May 2008

CSX Transportation is planning a $700 million “National Gateway” with $80 million being invested right here in Wood County.

Railroad officials announced Wednesday that they are moving ahead with a new rail terminal near North Baltimore, on the southern edge of the county. The railyard is part of a national project to move freight more efficiently for less money.

The project calls for CSX to invest $300 million in upgrades that would allow trains with double-stacked cars to run from the East Coast ports to the Midwest. Federal and state governments are being asked to kick in $400 million to change 79 overpasses or tunnels that don’t have enough clearance for the double-decker train cars.

Though part of the CSX project rests on the government’s commitment to funds, the North Baltimore railyard is being built with or without that support, according to Lisa Mancini, senior vice president for CSX infrastructure initiatives.

“This facility is important enough that we are doing this” regardless of that outside funding, Mancini told a packed hearing room at the county office building. Some of those present were just curious about the huge project, and others wanted to know how their businesses could get a piece of the $80 million being sunk into the site.

CSX has already purchased approximately 500 acres to the west of North Baltimore. Though there was initial resistance by some neighbors, five homeowners were bought out at “more than fair prices,” according to Tom Blaha, executive director of the Wood County Economic Development Commission.

Mancini stressed that her company is more sensitive to landowners’ feelings than they may have been in the past.

“We may have railroaded our way into communities in the past,” she said. “But we are trying to do this in a way so we are as welcome as possible.”

The village of North Baltimore is definitely welcoming the rail terminal, according to town officials at Wednesday’s announcement.
“We are very, very excited,” said Councilman William Cameron. “Due to the recent factory closings we’ve had, this will make a major turnaround for North Baltimore.”

In the past year or so, shut downs at two plants have resulted in an estimated 300 people losing their jobs.

“This definitely is a shot in the arm for us,” said Village Administrator Kathy Healy. “It gives us hope for the future. We’ve taken a couple of hard hits in the last couple months. But we’re not drying up, we’re not giving up.”
While the railyard itself is expected to employ 100 or so people, as many as 3,000 jobs are predicted to come from spinoff businesses such as warehouses and distribution centers.

“We’re very fortunate,” Blaha said. “This is going to benefit the entire region.”
CSX expects to break ground at the site before the end of the year, and have the terminal open in the early part of 2010, according to Rusty Orben, director of public affairs for CSX.

Orben said the “National Gateway” project is vital to handle the freight needs of the nation.

“There has to be an alternative to moving freight across this country,” he said.

National statistics estimate that freight traffic in the nation will jump 67 percent by 2020. Railways are the best able to handle the loads, Mancini said.
“The highway infrastructure is already congested, already decaying,” she said.

The vast majority of foreign goods comes through ports in Los Angeles and Long Beach, which are increasingly congested, Mancini said.
“Shippers are looking to East Coast ports,” she explained. And reaching those eastern ports will be made easier when the Panama Canal undergoes its expansion, Mancini added.

So the “National Gateway” plan will link ports in Wilmington, N.C.; Portsmouth, Va.; and Baltimore, Md., to the new terminal near North Baltimore and an expanded terminal near Columbus.

The goal is to have terminals large enough to handle the double-stacked trains, and rearrange them onto other trains headed to specific destinations in the Midwest, or shift them to semi-trucks.

“All this should be in place by 2015, in time for the Panama Canal expansion,” Mancini said.

“This will improve the flow of freight. Wood County will be very much like our hub,” she said, comparing the railyard to an airport hub where passengers are then diverted to smaller planes to their destinations. “It’s a very efficient, cost- effective solution.”

It is believed the rail project will take a lot of long-haul trucks off the highways. That should not only relieve congestion on roadways, but also reduce greenhouse gas emissions, Mancini said.

A train can move one ton of freight 423 miles on a single gallon of fuel, and carry the load of more than 280 trucks, she said.

Ohio already has more rail miles than any of the other 22 states covered by the CSX system, according to Orben.

Owens to pay $6M for Penta
Written by By MARIE THOMAS Sentinel Education Editor
Wednesday, 07 May 2008

A $6 million price tag was a good enough deal for Owens Community College officials to agree to purchase the adjacent Penta Career Center.

The college's Board of Trustees on Tuesday agreed to the deal. Penta board members are expected to support the agreement when they meet May 14.
The purchase is a natural progression for Owens, which, with 20,000 students, has continued to look for areas in which to expand.

According to Owens President Christa Adams, she and Penta Superintendent Fred Susor have had several conversations about such a deal during the past seven years. "We've been talking about that since I've been here," she said Tuesday.

"It's been a long time coming," proclaimed board Chairman John Moore prior to the vote.

The deal doubles the size, to 55 acres, of Owens' Perrysburg Township campus. It gives the college an additional 400 parking spaces plus numerous classrooms and offices in the center's main high school building, which is a former Army depot; a shop area that is being used by Penta for automotive body work, welding and carpentry classes; a 300-seat auditorium; a greenhouse; plus storage facilities.

The purchase price also includes the 28 acres on which Owens sits, which are leased from Penta at $1 per year. Owens is using $12 million received from the Ohio Board of Regents to cover the purchase price as well as renovations, according to John Satkowski, executive vice president for Business Affairs and chief financial officer at Owens.

Bringing the campus up to code is expected to cost more than the purchase price.

"There's a good $5 million, easy, in ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and compliance issues," Satkowski stated. "It's about a $15 million project, when we're all said and done."

He estimated $3 million for cosmetic updates alone.

The state's Controlling Board is expected to review the agreement and render a decision on the release of funds when it meets May 19, Satkowski said.
The sale should close on June 30, and Owens will take immediate possession.
Penta's Administration Building, with its offices and classrooms, is the first on the college's list for renovations, said Satkowski. College officials hope to be using some of the new classrooms by next spring.

"I think it was just a natural that we started talking," Penta Treasurer Carrie Herringshaw said this morning about the pending deal.

Penta purchased 140 acres west on Interstate 75 in 2001 for its new campus, which it will open this fall.

According to Herringshaw, no other entity had come forward to express interest in the career center's facility.

Had another company purchased the Penta site, it could have created future issues for the college. Owens, an offshoot of the vocational school's adult education department, has its lease agreement with Penta through 2028.
That agreement was among the items Owens wanted reviewed by the state's Attorney General's Office, according to Satkowski.

In addition to its expansion on Oregon Road, Owens also is expanding its presence in Lucas County. The college agreed Tuesday to lease a building on Indian Circle Drive in Maumee for its Workforce and Community Services division at a cost of $800,000 each year. The facility will be used for offices and classrooms.

According to Satkowski, the college will try to sell its building on Tracy Road which now houses the division.

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Just a few things I noticed while heading to lunch the other day:

I don't know yet what's going in there, but the Ft. Meigs Auto Electric building right across from Fifth Third opening gates has been bought and I had seen them cleaning it out and doing renovations.

Also, not that adds to any development impact, but I noticed AT&T put up a nice big sign at the top of their building that will add to the skyline while driving on I-75.

Just a few things I noticed while heading to lunch the other day:

I don't know yet what's going in there, but the Ft. Meigs Auto Electric building right across from Fifth Third opening gates has been bought and I had seen them cleaning it out and doing renovations.

Also, not that adds to any development impact, but I noticed AT&T put up a nice big sign at the top of their building that will add to the skyline while driving on I-75.

The former Ft. Meigs Auto Electric which is 9 and 11 N. Huron Street shows a property transaction on 4/10/2008 for $72,000 and on 5/8/2008 for $175,000. I've noticed some movements there as well but not sure what it will be.

The huge AT&T logo signage was put up this past Thursday which caught my eye and it's well in the view of the stands from Fifth Third Field. I wonder if they will install another one on the north side for the upcoming new downtown arena.

Oh brother--what is this???!!! Why don't the current owners of Southwyck just sell it to Larry Dillin and move on? It is quite obvious they are not interested in redeveloping or running a major commercial-retail establishment.

This development project was mentioned in past posts of its progress in this thread and it's good to know that over 200 jobs will be merged, retained, and new jobs will be added.

"The present condition of the mall makes it a health hazard for the public and employees working there," Mr. Zervos said. "They'll have 72 hours to clean up the mold and secure the asbestos so dust is not allowed to escape into the public."

It's time to just tear down the mall and get it over with. Let the redevelopment project begin.

Anyone else check out sundays sports page in the Blade? Pretty big article about Savage Hall, a lot of it was about having to make donations to even get season tickets in the lower bowl. I think its stupid. There asking way to much. I went to a game last year and it wasnt even a quarter full... Even tho thats kinda some BS I still cant wait to see this complete they say it'll be the premiere venue of the MAC. I dunno EMU has a pretty nice facility, BG's looks a little basic but anything brand new has to be good.....

This new arena is taking shape fast. I don't live in Toledo, so I had to snoop these photos from http://www.flickr.com/photos/_kris_/2490933881/

January
http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/5721/2194873045a34b48a555bde2.jpg

April
http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/8819/2401647461e960c765b4bls6.jpg

May
http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/4691/249091937760f088c07ebbe5.jpg

Good find man.....Been hopin some different view shots popped up. Google Arena419 for another site to keep updated. Someones gotta email the dude tho he hasnt updated since like late March. I wanna see some more shots from that parking garage. These will definatly do for now

Can't wait to see how fast this goes up. I am moving to Chicago for the summer so I will have a nice surprise to look forward to come August.

Also, I remember a few months ago Bonjour made a post specifically about the arena, is that still around? I haven't seen it lately.

http://sports.espn.go.com/travel/news/story?id=3387179

Another minor-league team to capitalize on this what's-old-is-new-again design approach is the Toledo Mud Hens.

The International League team's Fifth Third Field is home to a section of "Roost Seats" courtesy of a deck that extends off the third floor of a renovated six-story warehouse down its right field line. Believe it or not, the first three rows of the 282-seat Roost actually hang right out over the playing surface.

Mud Hens spokesman Jason Griffin explained the thinking of team management, Lucas County administrators, and the architects at HNTB who made the group decision to transform what was an abandoned property into a signature ballpark feature.

"The building adds a lot of character to the field," Griffin said. "It might have been cheaper to knock it down, but if we had done that the field wouldn't have the same charm. And fans wouldn't have the chance to watch the game from such a unique location."

In addition to housing team offices, banquet facilities and what Griffin describes as the largest souvenir store in minor-league baseball, the building's trademark feature, the Roost, was designed to replicate the effect at old Tiger Stadium, which once offered a similar overhang to fans of the Mud Hens' big-league parent club in Detroit.

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080514/COLUMNIST08/805140416

Article published Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Tight-site arena likely to have huge impact downtown

Where several months ago there was rubble from demolished buildings, then a gaping hole for foundation and prep work, there is now the unmistakable, oval shape of an arena rising in the heart of downtown Toledo.

Many of the same companies and people who were involved in the construction of Fifth Third Field prior to its opening in 2002 are hard at work in making the Lucas County Arena a reality, but the comparison goes beyond that.

When our marvelous baseball stadium was just a hole in the ground with concrete pillars poking out of the dirt and steel beams dangling from cranes, I walked around the construction site and didn't envision any way in the world a first-class ballpark could be squeezed into such tight confines. Some 3.4 million visitors in the six-plus years since would tell me I was wrong.

So I expect to be wrong this time, too. But that's the first thing you notice in watching the arena's main concourse take shape with its back to Madison Avenue - it seems so compact.


Tim Meyer, the project manager for the Lathrop Company, said the entire site is about five acres, tops. The building footprint, as he called the area upon which the arena will sit, is about three acres.

How big is that? Well, if you built a tee box at the corner of Jefferson and Huron, where the main entrance will be positioned in the southwest corner of the arena, and plant some grass for a green where the loading dock will be in the northeast corner, you'd need about an 8-iron to play the par-3 hole. That's it.

In the construction game, they call it a tight site.

Yet, 17 months from now, in October of 2009, upwards of 7,500 fans will be in the arena to watch the Toledo Walleye hockey team play its home opener. The venue will seat roughly 1,000 more for concerts and somewhere in between for the Ringling Brothers circus or Disney on Ice or Sesame Street Live.

The key to a tight site, where you can't build too far out, is to build up. The roof of our arena will peak about 80 feet above ground level. That's where fans will enter - the same level where the team merchandise shop and banquet facilities will be located - before climbing or riding escalators up to the second level and entry to the lower bowl seating areas. The third floor will feature 20 private suites, party decks, and club-level seats that will overhang the lower bowl, much like at Fifth Third Field.

"It will be a very intimate building," said Joe Napoli, the vice president-general manager of the Mud Hens who will serve in a similar role with the Walleye and, possibly, an arena football team. "Fans will love the feel, especially for hockey. In a lot of bigger arenas, the second deck is so far removed from the action. Not here.

"We visited a lot of arenas and we learned that a lot of them in mid-sized communities like Toledo are over-built. We saw 12,000 to 15,000-seat arenas where maybe 9,000 seats are being used on a regular basis. They spent millions for those extra 3,000 or 5,000 seats and they see no return on that investment. We saw a lot of unused space or space not being used wisely. And you still have to heat, cool, and maintain it.

"This facility is being done differently. It's compact, intimate. Our responsibility has been to focus on every square foot of the building and make sure each one contributes to the operation and to the fan experience."

Steve Miller of SMG, a management firm for public assembly facilities, will be general manager of the arena and has four months under his belt as GM of the SeaGate Convention Centre. While the Walleye will be the arena's main tenant with about 40 home playing dates per season, Miller will be responsible for bringing in the circus and monster trucks, MMA and pro wrestling, ice shows and dog shows, concerts and outside sporting events, like prep basketball and hockey tournaments.

"Part of the plan is to take arena events out of the convention center," said Miller, who came to Toledo after a lengthy SMG stint at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Mich. "We're aiming for between 100 and 115 events a year, including the Walleye games. There has been very, very keen interest in this market by some of the [touring companies] that would come in for multiple shows. I think the arena is a perfect size. It's going to be a great complex."

And complex is the key word. Toledo will soon become one of the few cities of its size - or, for that matter, of any size - in America to have its outdoor stadium, indoor arena and convention center lined up from one city block to the next.

"And that's just part of it," Napoli added. "The riverfront is a block or two to the east, the Valentine Theater is a block to the north, the art museum is exactly one mile from the front door of the arena, Promenade Park is a short walk, and the zoo is within a few miles. All of a sudden, you're looking at an impressive entertainment center with so many attractions so close together."

Napoli estimates more than one million people will visit the two major sports venues per year. He said all the downtown attractions will draw upwards of 2.5 million visitors annually.

And he expects the new arena to spur even more of a social renaissance in the city's center.

As part of the "tight site" format, neither Fifth Third Field nor the arena includes franchised restaurants, taverns or retail shops, other than team merchandise outlets. And, because our teams are steered by nonprofit boards that can afford to see the revenue go elsewhere, all parking is off site.

It's all part of the master plan that funnels fans over several blocks past eateries, watering holes, and specialty shops on their way to and from the ballpark. It will be no different with the new arena and, said Napoli, "We anticipate entrepreneurs will look at downtown in a new light because there will now be 12 months of constant activity in this area."

Yes, this could truly be huge for downtown Toledo.

Remember, big things often come in small packages.

Dave Hackenberg is a Blade sports writer.

Yet, 17 months from now, in October of 2009, upwards of 7,500 fans will be in the arena to watch the Toledo Walleye hockey team play its home opener. The venue will seat roughly 1,000 more for concerts and somewhere in between for the Ringling Brothers circus or Disney on Ice or Sesame Street Live.

Ah, I think he made a mistake here. Throughout the entire planning and construction process, I remember always seeing figures of 9,000 for hockey and up to 12,000 for concerts.

You certainly want at least 10,000 capacity for concerts, as that will attract a lot more of the big shows Toledo is currently lacking. I agree 15,000 seats is complete overkill at most arenas, but Toledo can support 10,000. It's much cheaper to build that capacity now rather than later with renovation. UT (9,000 seats) is under $30 million renovation right now, and they're barely adding any capacity.

New Schools, New Neighborhoods Development
NORTH TOLEDO -- If you build it, they will come. At least, that's what one north Toledo group is hoping.

They're building a new neighborhood around the nearly completed Chase Elementary School.

News 11's Tanieya Lewis reported live from the neighborhood in development.

This is how it works. Families who move into the neighborhood off of Ontario will get to send their kids to the brand new Chase Elementary School. The school will offer an eco-friendly curriculum, so kids will get to do projects in the wetlands nearby.

The wetlands is why the developer chose the location -- calling it a "Neighborhood of Choice."

The project is part of the "New School, New Neighborhood" coalition where developers are building homes around four TPS schools under construction. It's an effort to transform the entire neighborhoods and attract working families such as those from nearby Jeep and Libbey Glass.

The first home is going up and is already sold. There will be 32 homes in this neighborhood by the end of the project. Homes are expected to cost around $115,000.

13abc:
The land is sitting there, ready for development and now the developer is just about ready to build.
The first phase could begin next month and involves a user-friendly river walk right along the water's edge. The developer believes the final plans for the riverside drive area will make Toledo the envy of the Midwest.
Larry Dillin is already taking bids and construction could begin in June on phase one of the marina district site.
Story continues belowAdvertisement
It is a $20 million investment in what will ultimately be a $320 million project.
The city has cleaned the property, put in sewers and fire hydrants to get it ready for development. The final touches involve signing off on financing agreements.
It is 58 acres the city is essentially giving to Larry Dillin to build his retail residential and office complex.
Councilman Mike Ashford says that's $1 million of public land that should not be given to a private developer.
Several council members noted that not only did the city get the marina property for free, it's land that sits unused, generating no income.
Larry Dillin will take the land and create a $320 million project and expects Toledo will get at least $3 million in income taxes generated from the construction jobs.
"By this time next year, that waterfront's going to look dramatically different."
All that stands in the way now is the expected approval from council on various financing plans.

I heard Savage Hall was losing seats, and from looking at the drawings I think it looks like it as well......i think 7,500 to 8,000 is good for a hockey game in Toledo. Its hard to remember back when the storm would draw 5,000 to a game back when we had Duncan an Diesel winnin championships for us..... And I dont care about Bruce Springsteen concerts where we need 10,000 plus capacity.... The Old sports arena had lots of good shows for its size.....

Also google (Toledo MArina District May2008) theres a video from 13 abc

^The point is the Storm DID sell out some games, even with a very rundown, crappy arena. Attendance will be much better at a classier, more desirable venue like the new arena. It's not unfathomable for Toledo to occasionally get 9,000 people at such a nice arena/location in a market where hockey is more popular than in much of America. Other markets Toledo's size have done it, and with crappier arenas.

Savage Hall is pretty much staying the same for conerts I think. They are losing some permanent seats to suites, so basketball capacity will go down. Capacity for basketball will go down to 8,000. I think concerts will still be around 10,000. Just check out this link (some good graphics too): http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070627/SPORTS11/706270401

8,0000/9,000 permanent seats is really splitting hairs with MAC basketball, but for a city/county arena, capacity is more relevant since you want the municipal arena to be the largest in the market and attract the best shows.

Im all for a bigger arena.... But if we cant fill it then Id rather have the money for the extra seating spent on other things for the arena.... Like the Outdoor terrace or the video screen on the outside, glass roof..... somethin that makes it unique. I know its one of the first green arenas but I want something more. Somethin that might gain attention like the roost... not necessarily seating wise but just a part to the arena that people can look at and tell its LUCAS COUNTY ARENA or whatever it will be called..... And also..... is it 7,500 seats or is there standing room included in that? Are the suites included in that number?

Hello, This is my first post. Thank you everyone for a great forum. It is certainly an exciting time in Toledo with all of the recent developments and Toledo's establishing a place among the leading metrolplitan areas dedicated to the science and technology of alternative energy.

I have begun compiling a list of the most recent developments in the area. Any additions or corrections would be greatly appreciatted.


Toledo - Metro Area Development

Jeep Plant & Supplier Park Industrial $3,300,000,000
BP Husky Oil Refinery** expansion in Oregon $2,500,000,000
General Motors Powertrain Industrial $900,000,000
U.S. Coking Group* Coking plant $800,000,000
Toledo School District*** rebuild & renovate schools $800,000,000 2002-2012
Levis Commons** Phases III+ through 2009 $325,000,000
Toledo Marina District* Resident./Retail/Entertain. $320,000.000 2009
Riverwalk/Erie Market** Toledo Wharehouse district $300,000,000 2010
Buckeye Biopower** ethanal plant on river $240,000,000 2009
Veterans’ Glass City Skyway bridge $237.000,000 2007
Promedica* Toledo Hospital expansion $156,000,000
Whitehouse Square** retail & residential dev. $150,000,000 2011
Shops at Fallen Timbers New retail - outdoor mall $125,000,000 2007
Village of Southwyck** retail, office & residential $125,000,000
Westfield Franklin Park Mall expansion $117,000,000 2005
Levis Commons new retail - outdoor mall $106,000,000
St. Vincent; Hospital* medical campus expansion $100,000,000
Wastewater Treatment Plant City of Toledo $100,000,000
New Toledo Storm Arena* entertainment complex $100,000,000
Federal Courthouse** City of Toledo $95,000,000
FedEx Ground** Processing Center $87,000,000
CSX intermodel rail hub** Train yard in Wood County $80,000,000 2010
Mercy Health Medical** Monclova medical facility $73,000,000 2009
Levis Commons* Phase II $70,000,000
Bass Pro Shops New 150k sq. ft. retail $50,000,000 2008
Martin L. King, Jr. Bridge renovation $42,000,000 2008
Owens Illinois World Headquarters $40,000,000
Fifth Third Field baseball stadium $39,000,000 2002
Costco new retail $35,000,000 2007
Wood County Hospital** 100k foot expansion $35,000,000
Xunlight Corp.* Solar research & manufact. $32,500,000 2009
Toledo Art Institute Glass Pavilion $30,000,000 2006
Westfield Franklin Park* 2nd Mall Expansion $30,000,000+
Savage Hall* sports complex renovation $30,000,000 2008 l
Chrysler machining Plant** renovation $28,000,000 2009
Pilkington development** housing I-75/Maumee river $22,000,000
Kroger and retail** Roachton/25 in Perrysburg $22,000,000 2009
Water Street Steam Plant* conversion to condos $21,500,000
Owens Illinois world headquarters $20,000,000 2005
American BioDiesal Industrial $17,000,000
First Solar, Inc. Solar panel manuf. Plant $16,000,000 2001
UT* Savage Business Complex $15,400,000
Staybridge Suites* Hotel at Fallen Timbers $15,000,000
Holiday Inn & Suites Hotel in Maumee $15,000,000 2007
Triangle Warehouse Bldg** lofts conversion $15,000,000
Berdan Warehouse Bldg** lofts conversion $15,000,000
Urban Active Fitness Center (Sylvania) $13,000,000 2008
Gilham Hall at U of Toledo renovation $12,400,000 2007
Titan Tire Co.** 250k sq. foot expansion $10,000,000+
Toledo Shipyard* renovation $10,000,000
UTMC* Orthopedic Center $10,000,000
Skyway Center* Retail $10,000,000
YMCA* (West Toledo) expansion $8,200,000 2009
Hamilton Inn & Suites New Hotel in Rossford $8,000,000
Toledo Zoo* Nature’s Neighborhood $7,500,000 2009
Deveaux Shopping Center** renovation (Toledo) $6,000,000
Lexus of Toledo new Jim White dealership $5,500,000 2004
Holiday Inn French Quarter Perrysburg, renovation $4,000,000 2008
Spartan Logistics/Cedar Fair*Warehouse at Toledo Air $4,000,000
Toledo Bakery Building** Loft conversion $3,670,000
Gold Medal Indoor Sports 78,000 sq. ft. sports complex $3,500,000 2006
Omnicare, Inc. Expansion in Perrysburg $3,500,000
Ferry Terminal Toledo cruise ship terminal $3,200,000 2008
Central Catholic High* new stadium $3,000,000
Northcoast Iron Horse motorcycle dealership $3,000,000 2003
Maumee Indoor Theatre restoration $3,000,000 2004
Jim White Toyota renovation/expansion $2,000,000 2006
U of T Rocket Center 14,500 sq. feet of retail $2,000,000 2008
Georgetown Village apartment complex reno. $1,800,000 2006
Briarfield Village* Monclova retail strip $1,500,000 2008
St. Luke’s Hospital* Diabetes Center $1,500,000
Perrysburg Fire Station** new station at Levis $1,300,000 2009
Perrysburg YMCA expansion $1,000,000 2007

$10,903,220,000

Perrysburg Point** 200k sq. ft. of retail

* Under construction
** Serious proposal for development within next five years
*** 10-12 year project begun in 2002 to renovate district schools
- developments from 2000 to present
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Toledo Metro Area Awards

Toledo wins “World’s 3rd Most Liveable City” (with population between 200,000 to 750,000)
- United Nations/ International Awards for Liveable Communities 2007
November 2007

Toledo is named “Most Business Friendly City in North America”
- Financial Time of London/Foreign Direct Investment magazine
May 2007

Ohio - 2007: Most economic development projects in the nation. (399)
- 2006: Most economic development projects in the nation. (431)
(Chosen by Site Selection magazine. For a project to be counted, it must either involve a capital investment of at least $1 million, create at least 50 jobs, or add at least 20,000 square feet of floor area.)
- Headquarters to 28 Fortune 500 Companies (2007), 59 Fortune 1000 Companies.

TAYLOR HYUNDAI GRAND OPENING

PERRYSBURG, OH – The Taylor Automotive Family is very pleased to announce the Grand Opening of its newest dealership, Taylor Hyundai. The doors will officially open for business on Wednesday, May 14, 2008. Please join us to celebrate the unveiling of Taylor Hyundai. The new dealership is located across from Levis Commons at 12681 Eckel Junction Road, Perrysburg, Ohio.

This Taylor Family dealership is situated in the thriving, historic city of Perrysburg, just North of one of the Midwest’s premier retail developments, Levis Commons. The building site is located near the world headquarters of Owens Illinois and numerous rapidly growing businesses, including three solar energy companies, a Bass Pro Shop and the future Hilton Hotel and Conference Center.

Taylor Hyundai is a stunning 36,000 square foot, state of the art facility designed to cater to the high expectations of Hyundai customers. Located on a park like setting of almost twelve acres, the property features a large pond, lush landscaping and ample convenient parking. The Taylor Hyundai campus will be able to showcase more than 600 new and pre-owned Hyundai vehicles.

This flagship dealership, designed by the Collaborative architectural firm, built by Rudolph Libbe and decorated by Bruce Roberts Interiors, features numerous fine amenities for the enjoyment of its customers. For the convenience of its valued customers, the dealership has a 20 bay service area, comprising over 10,000 square feet which is equipped with the finest high tech equipment operated by Hyundai factory trained and ASE certified technicians.

The sleek contemporary design of the dealership, which includes soaring ceilings, large expanses of glass and one-or-a-kind door handles in the shape of the Hyundai logo, was specifically designed to showcase Hyundai’s impressive new lineup of stylish vehicles. Hyundai is known for its quality and attention to detail and guests to Taylor Hyundai will also find abundant custom details and a “best of quality” environment in their new Hyundai dealership. Hyundai has received many recent rave reviews, quality and safety awards and backs its high-value vehicles with the best warranty in the business. Hyundai, which means “modernity” has a large technical center in nearby Superior Township, Michigan.

Stephen D. Taylor has been an automotive dealer in the Toledo area since 1979 and has had the privilege of selling over 75,000 cars to his cherished family of customers. The Taylor Automotive Group, consisting of Taylor Cadillac, Taylor KIA, Taylor Automax and now Taylor Hyundai, is dedicated to providing its customers with the best experience and value in the industry. Outstanding customer satisfaction and offering the best priced vehicles have vaulted Taylor Kia to its present ranking as the Number One volume Kia dealership in the entire United States. It is the goal of Taylor Hyundai to also become the top Hyundai dealership in the country by providing unparalleled value, selection and personal customer service.

The Official Grand Opening Celebration will take place on Saturday, June 7, 2008. This event will offer unbeatable sale prices on new Hyundais and all pre-owned vehicles, gifts and a chance to win prizes including a brand new Hyundai. The Grand Opening Celebration will feature fun and games for the entire family, free food and drinks from 10am – 4pm as well as entertainment including a live performance by Chicago’s own Bluz Brothers Tribute Band.

Hello, This is my first post. Thank you everyone for a great forum.


^^Welcome! That was a good first post!

But if we cant fill it then Id rather have the money for the extra seating spent on other things for the arena.... Like the Outdoor terrace or the video screen on the outside, glass roof

Think of it this way. What's cheaper to add on later? Seating or an outdoor video screen? You can easily add some architectural detailing and outdoor decorations any time in the future. Adding permanent seating would require a large renovation. You want to build it right the first time.

Either way, I'm positive they want capacity over 10,000 for concerts/shows since the city and county need it, and all the planning called for upwards of 12,000 for concerts. Toledo had one of the smallest municipal arenas of any city its size in the nation, and we DID miss out on a lot. We're long overdue for a big update.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

13abc:
The land is sitting there, ready for development and now the developer is just about ready to build.
The first phase could begin next month and involves a user-friendly river walk right along the water's edge. The developer believes the final plans for the riverside drive area will make Toledo the envy of the Midwest.
Larry Dillin is already taking bids and construction could begin in June on phase one of the marina district site.
Story continues belowAdvertisement
It is a $20 million investment in what will ultimately be a $320 million project.
The city has cleaned the property, put in sewers and fire hydrants to get it ready for development. The final touches involve signing off on financing agreements.
It is 58 acres the city is essentially giving to Larry Dillin to build his retail residential and office complex.
Councilman Mike Ashford says that's $1 million of public land that should not be given to a private developer.
Several council members noted that not only did the city get the marina property for free, it's land that sits unused, generating no income.
Larry Dillin will take the land and create a $320 million project and expects Toledo will get at least $3 million in income taxes generated from the construction jobs.
"By this time next year, that waterfront's going to look dramatically different."
All that stands in the way now is the expected approval from council on various financing plans.

IMHO, Mike Ashford needs to sit down and shut up for once. He needs to understand Urban Planning 101 and what works/what doesn't work in Rust Belt cities. What boggles my mind is this council man keeps getting elected especially in my district.

Welcome to this forum CharmedQuark and looking forward to your constructive posts in regards to developments/redevelopments of the Toledo region. :)

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Charmed Quark: Interesting first post. I was quite in awe with the huge projects you were listing - kind of skeptical actually - but then I figured - well, I don't know that much about Toledo - so, I'm not going to say anything. That sounds incredibly impressive for a metropolitan region of a little less than 1,000,000! Even all the awards and honors - congratulations - very impressive - I was still kind of skeptical (I mean how can Toledo really have more economic development projects than a huge, growing region like Dallas, Atlanta, Los Angeles, etc - but then I was thinking - well, I suppose those other huge cities are too busy to turn in the paperwork to have all of their economic projects listed - so, congratulations to Toledo - for having a lot going on and making the effort to turn in all of the paperwork for listing all of your economic development projects. Everything was going fine - but then the very last thing really made me have to write. What are you talking about "28 Fortune 500 companies headquartered in Toledo!!?!?!? That just is wrong. Then ---- just as I was about to send this message out - I re-read your post, and realized - all of those super claims at the bottom were for the entire state of Ohio. OH! Now it makes some more sense. I will finish my congratulations to the entire state of Ohio. Congrats. I think it will be helpful to keep this post in place because there likely will be others that will read the post the same way I did and basically not believe it, because those last stats seem way too much just for the Toledo region. Anyway - That is great that Ohio has so many projects going on (and that they are filling out all of the paperwork to have them all listed and recognized). Keep up the great work - and while I'm writing - it still seems pretty strange because, whenever I see the lists of cities losing the largest percentage of their population, (most of) the big Ohio cities are very well represented (Cleveland, Akron, Youngstown, Dayton, Cincinnati). (I'm not sure how Toledo is doing with its population, but honestly I'd be surprised if it was growing much, considering it is right between Detroit and Cleveland.) So - with all of these new economic development projects - what is going to happen? Do you Ohioans think the population slowdown is going to go the other way as people start moving to Ohio to get jobs related to all of these big economic development projects? Again - interesting post. I'd like to know if Ohio is going to start booming because of these projects - or are they not real job intensive - or are there still so many other jobs being lost, that the net gain won't make a significant difference in overall population growth. Thanks for any input. - Curious in Tampa.

As reported in previous posts that Johnson Controls inc. in Northwood was going to shut down permanently by 2010 and now it will remain open in a modified set-up. It's good news considering the stagnant national economy.

For those who is wondering what is the latest update on the historic Triangle Building on Erie & Lafayette Street, Rep. Peter Ujvagi (D., Toledo), a committee member, pointed to the $11.3 million proposed conversion of the old Standart-Simmons Hardware Co. warehouse at 34 South Erie St. in Toledo into 75 loft apartments as an example of a project left waiting in the wings. The tax credit would have been worth $2.7 million.

“These folks are out-of-state investors [from Lansing, Mich.] who came specifically to participate in this program,” he said. “They bought the building and are now just staring at us trying to figure out what is going on.”

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Deleted due to Toledo Blade's request.

Oliver House South Wing Gallery to feature multiple art offerings
By John Dorsey
Toledo Free Press Staff Writer

The South Wing Gallery of the historic Oliver House is playing host to a wide variety of artistic disciplines. Early April marked the grand opening of the North Coast Theatre, the Blue Heron Gallery and M.J. Erard Fine Art. These venues will be connected not only by their location, but also by the themes in the work being presented.

North Coast Theatre's opening production is the popular musical theater piece “Erie Invaders” written by Christine Child and David Jex. At the same time, patrons will be able to check out the landscape paintings of M.J. Erard Fine Art Founder Mary Jane Erard, who is the inaugural artist at the Blue Heron Gallery, where she will also be serving as gallery director. Erard's exhibit, “Ohio Fields,” will run through May 23.

It was Christine Child and local business owner Pat Appold who started discussing the need for art in the South Wing.

“North Coast Theatre had been looking for a home and Pat Appold had been looking for a way to bring art into the South Wing,” Child said. “We had talked to other venues such as the Arts Commission of Greater Toledo, but in the end South Wing was just the perfect fit. From the beginning we always wanted to bring Mary Jane in as an opening featured artist, but after speaking with her we decided to bring her in as our gallery director as well.”

Erard has been part of the local arts community for a number of years, serving as president and a member at large at Spectrum: Friends of Fine Art at the Toledo Botanical Garden. Her work has also been accepted into more than 60 juried shows, including the Artists Project exhibit in Chicago. One of Erard's goals as a Gallery Director is to offer the community more juried exhibitions. M.J. Erard Fine Art will host the artist's permanent collection.

“I think that I can bring an interesting mix as both artist and businesswomen to South Wing,” Erard said.

City, developers seek to fill vacant buildings
By Brandi Barhite of Toledo Free Press and Shaun Hegarty of FOX Toledo
Posted on Toledo Free Press website 5-16-2008

Toledo does not stand alone when it comes to its empty buildings.

“I can't tell you it's not a problem, but it is average,” said Sam Zyndorf, senior vice president of Signature Associates in Downtown Toledo. “It is not unique. There are a lot of cities, especially a lot of cities in the Midwest, that have vacant buildings. Truthfully, are all of those buildings going to be leased or sold? Probably not. Some are antiquated and will never see light again.

“It is simple supply and demand,” Zyndorf said. “We have the supply, we just need more demand.”

Development Specialist Anthony Jones said the City of Toledo does not have a comprehensive list of its vacant buildings, although preparing such a document is planned.

In the past two years, with aid from the city, 24 vacant buildings in Downtown have been purchased, renovated or are in the process of renovation, according to Jones. These include Home Slice Pizza, 28 S. St. Clair St.; Ottawa Tavern, 1815 Adams St.; and The City Grill, 421 Huron St.

“Our successes are helping us gain momentum,” Jones said.

But there's still more to be done when it comes to empty or barely-occupied buildings.

The more notables are the privately owned Fiberglas Tower, the former Fifth Third Center and the Berdan Building.

The city also owns an empty building at the southwest corner of Madison and Huron.

“From the outside it looks like it is dilapidated, but you go inside and see, ‘Wow, this could be something great if someone had the vision to turn this around,'” Jones said.

One section of the Madison Building used to be law offices; the other was a stock exchange and bank.

Jones met with a developer who had the Madison Building marked as an “ugly building,” but when he viewed the 20-foot archways, marble floors and walls and intricate paintings, his mind changed.

“We will entertain any development proposals for it,” Jones said. “We don't want to give it to somebody who doesn't have the means to develop it. We want to make sure we partner with them to get it to the final use of a developed, renovated property that is half a block away from the new sports arena.”

The uncertainty of the renovation costs is a challenge. The brick facade was ripped off, and the city isn't sure if the damages were critical or superficial.

“But I found out that everyone who has seen the building, who I took inside, were blown away by how beautiful it was,” Jones said.

A tall order
Part of Jones' job is to develop relationships with property owners so the city can help fill their buildings.

Jones has met with the Eyde Company, the owner of the Fiberglas Tower, 200 N. St. Clair St.

A feasibility study is being performed to determine how the skyscraper, which has been empty for more than 10 years, can be renovated and used in the Toledo market.

So far, it looks like a mix-used concept would be best for the former Owens Corning building, Jones said. Possibilities include retail on the top and bottom, and commercial outlets, condos and a fitness center throughout.

Jones said making the building dependent on various avenues of revenue would make it more sustainable in the long run. Having one tenant makes the building vulnerable to relocation, he said.

“The owners have exciting plans,” said Mitch Irwin, consultant for the Lansing, Mich.-based Eyde.

Irwin wasn't willing to be more specific, but said the owners are working with the city, county and the state of Ohio, and looking at incentive programs. The tower's asbestos is an issue that will have some cost, but it is resolvable, he said. A goal for the company is to make it the first-ever vertical brownfield project. The state of Ohio offers grants to clean environmentally damaged properties.

Jones is also working to help fill the former Fifth Third Center at Madison Avenue and Huron Street, and the Berdan Building, 601 Washington St. The former Fifth Third Center is owned by Ergur Realty; Berdan is owned by Parkwest Realty. They did not return calls for comment.

Outside parties have expressed interest in the Berdan Building, also known as King Warehouse No. 1., but Jones said he is not privy to additional information. Critical for that renovation is Ohio's historic tax credits.

“I know the building is in a phenomenal location in Downtown being cattycorner to the Mud Hens stadium,” Jones said.

As for the former Fifth Third Center, a mixed-used facility is proposed, but Jones could not elaborate.

Better with age
Jones said developing Downtown Toledo is about promoting its character. Downtown is not like building Fallen Timbers or Levis Commons from the ground up; the infrastructure is already in place.

“Older isn't worse,” he said. “Older provides an opportunity for a unique experience that those suburban sites won't be able to provide. Being able to have everything picture-perfect and symmetrical, and being of the same color and tone isn't always what people are looking for.”

Real estate expert Zyndorf said empty buildings are an image issue. Although it's not costing tax money for privately owned buildings to sit empty, it just doesn't look good.

The government really can't be blamed for the problem either, he said. Community leaders cannot do much except offer incentive packages when someone expresses interest in a property.

Jones said it's competitive. Some cities offer free land and buildings. Toledo has a variety of tax incentives, loans and grants.

John Gibney, spokesman for Regional Growth Partnership, said no formal survey is kept as to why businesses come to or leave Toledo.

The economy has played a recent role, but it works both ways, he said. Work doesn't just leave Toledo because of consolidation, it also comes to Toledo because of consolidation.

Zyndorf said some out-of-town people were looking at space in the past year and he hopes they come to Toledo, particularly Downtown. But it's important to be realistic, too. Not all buildings are viable any longer.

“Is somebody going to take on the wherewithal to go after the old Security Building at Huron and Madison? Even though the mayor won't like to hear this, highly unlikely,” he said.

“The problem is who is going to invest those millions of dollars into a building to create all that new space, and where is the demand? After you build it, will they come? I wish they would. I wish there were people waiting in line for office space.”

IMHO, Mike Ashford needs to sit down and shut up for once. He needs to understand Urban Planning 101 and what works/what doesn't work in Rust Belt cities.

Man, I'm really wondering why he is objecting here- maybe just for the sake of argument?

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you want to know somethin funny. i was sitting here reading the article on Downtown a couple threads up and i thought it was written by the Toledo Blade. So I'm sittin here readin it and I'm like HOLY TOLEDO the Blade is actually going to be retarded and is actually going to see downtown from all perspectives. Not just one. But then i looked and it was the Toledo Free Press

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Great article about our long-running, local company here in Toledo. Happy 120th Birthday ol' Libbey!

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To collaborate the burgeoning solar tech and alternative energy tech boom in this region the intermodal and shipping industries would be a no-brainer for this region to offshore the auto industries down-turns. More visuals and maps of the ongoing Intermodal Boom Developments around the Toledo region especially at North Baltimore, Port of Toledo, and Toledo Express.

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Why did that refinery close down? Seems to have been a bad move in an era where people are now calling for more refineries to be built.

Why did that refinery close down? Seems to have been a bad move in an era where people are now calling for more refineries to be built.

That is a very good question and hopefully someone will elaborate it with a little history on the former Chevron site.

Two latest article in regards to the Marina District project:

Rep. Peter Ujvagi hails funds approval for marina district
Postedon WNWO 24 NBC website May 20, 2008

COLUMBUS, OH -- On Monday, state representative Peter Ujvagi (D-Toledo) applauded the Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission’s approval of $4.9 million in state funds to pay for portions of Toledo’s new Marina District development. This approval, in conjunction with legislation pending before Toledo City Council, means construction on the Marina District could begin soon.

“We are finally keeping our commitment to make this Toledo project a true destination, and I am pleased the state saw the importance of this development to northwest Ohio,” Rep. Ujvagi said. “These new outlets for cultural, arts, and recreation activities will be the catalyst for new residential and commercial developments, and they will promote improvements on Main Street and other East Toledo neighborhoods. These developments will create jobs and bring additional attention and revenue to our area.”

The money from the state will help fund the 35-acre Riverwalk project along the Maumee river in Toledo. The project plans include: a public road, multi-purpose path, boardwalk, public gathering sites, open-air performance spaces, and will also incorporate significant environmental standards and technology.

The Riverwalk portion of the Marina District has a target completion date in December, with residential building construction beginning in the next few months.


Land Deal for Marina District
By Aaron Brilbeck
Posted on WNWO 24 NBC website May 20, 2008

Toledo city council members today approved a deal to turn over 58-acres of prime, waterfront property to developer Larry Dillin. Dillin plans to use the city owned land for a 320-million dollar retail and housing project. Councilwoman Lindsay Webb says, this is a good deal for the city. "As that land is sitting vacant and unused, we're not collecting property taxes", Webb says. But Councilman Mike Ashford isn't so enthusiastic. He reluctantly voted "Yes", upset about the tens of millions of dollars in taxpayer money that has been used over the years to get the land ready for development. "The fact is", Ashford says, "these are taxpayers dollars. And taxpayers dollars should not be used for a private entity"

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Wed June 4th at the Seagate final plans for the arena will be shown. This came from WTOL's 5am broadcast...... Id like to attend but no times were said. If anyone else has info please let me know.

Also Fifth Thirds project near Pilkington in Rossford is movin along pretty good. Sewers and Hydrants have already been installed and it looks like there starting on a road.

Wed June 4th at the Seagate final plans for the arena will be shown. This came from WTOL's 5am broadcast...... Id like to attend but no times were said. If anyone else has info please let me know.

Also Fifth Thirds project near Pilkington in Rossford is movin along pretty good. Sewers and Hydrants have already been installed and it looks like there starting on a road.

Credit to the Glass City Jungle Blog for posting an e-mail announcement from the Lucas County Commissioners:

COMMISSIONERS INVITE RESIDENTS TO SEE FINAL DESIGN FOR NEW DOWNTOWN ARENA

The invites are now in the mail and the Lucas County Commissioners want residents to come down and see the final design for the new multi-purpose arena in downtown Toledo.

Commissioners will host a major design roll-out for the public on Wednesday, June 4, 2008 beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the Seagate Convention Centre.

The final designs for the arena are a product of intense work by HNTB and the Arena architectural team, as well as important public input delivered in community forums and other settings over the course of several months.

More media-specific details will be announced as we near the date. For more information about the Lucas County Arena, visit www.LucasCountyArena.com

WHAT: Commissioners Invite Residents to See
Final Design for Arena

WHEN: Wednesday, June 4, 2008
10:00 a.m.

WHERE: Seagate Convention Centre
First Floor

It was passed at the council meeting last night to allow Tetra Tech to purchase Erie Street Market, Water Distribution Building, and 27 parcels to proceed the Riverwalk project, very good news!

Council blesses Riverwalk plans
Posted on WUPW FOX 36 website on May 20, 2008

DOWNTOWN TOLEDO -- Toledo City Council members have given the Swan Creek Riverwalk project its blessing Tuesday evening.

Although city leaders are all on board, it doesn't mean the project is a done deal. The next step is in the hands of Tetra Tech, the developer, which will now dig into the soil in environmental cleanup in order to transform the banks of the creek into an entertainment, living and shopping hub on the edge of downtown.

"Every development project has risk involved," said Councilman Joe McNamara. "We just need to make sure we understand it and that it's a risk worth taking for the taxpayer."

The taxpayers will get over $4 million for the land along the creek and the Erie Street Market, but some don't consider Tetra Tech's initial payment a down payment because the company will get it back in a year if the deal falls through.

"If they walk away from the deal in 11 months and 28 days they walk away with the money as well," said Councilman Michael Collins.

That money would be over $75,000 if closing does not happen before the end of the year, figures some on the council fought for.

"You cannot expect members of council to just accept any multi-million dollar deal that the administration wants us to pass, without asking good questions we're not doing our job," McNamara said.

Part of that questioning involved the council showing the deal to Matthew A. Sapara, New Project Development with the Toledo Lucas County Port Authority, who doubles as a lawyer.

"(Sapara's) got the expertise actually to render a good opinion. The port authority is constantly working on development deals."

"I will feel better when Tetra Tech says we've done our due diligence, we believe we can remediate the property, and citizens of Toledo we have a deal," Collins said.

I found this on WSPD 1370AM newsradio website in regards to the new housing developments in north Toledo:

Edison Place Means 32 New Homes
New North Toledo Neighborhood

The first home is under construction in a new North Toledo development called Edison Place. A neighborhood group is behind the effort to build 32 market-rate homes near the new Chase Elementary School. Jessie Maraquin of North River Development says the homes range from $115,000 to $170,000. Edison Place is expected to be complete in 2011 at a cost of $7 million.


New Schools, New Neighborhoods Development
NORTH TOLEDO -- If you build it, they will come. At least, that's what one north Toledo group is hoping.

They're building a new neighborhood around the nearly completed Chase Elementary School.

News 11's Tanieya Lewis reported live from the neighborhood in development.

This is how it works. Families who move into the neighborhood off of Ontario will get to send their kids to the brand new Chase Elementary School. The school will offer an eco-friendly curriculum, so kids will get to do projects in the wetlands nearby.

The wetlands is why the developer chose the location -- calling it a "Neighborhood of Choice."

The project is part of the "New School, New Neighborhood" coalition where developers are building homes around four TPS schools under construction. It's an effort to transform the entire neighborhoods and attract working families such as those from nearby Jeep and Libbey Glass.

The first home is going up and is already sold. There will be 32 homes in this neighborhood by the end of the project. Homes are expected to cost around $115,000.

Toledo City Council yesterday handed over 58 acres of city land in East Toledo to Developer Larry Dillin for a planned $320 million Marina District development; and approved the ESM, Water Distribution, and 27 parcels of city property to Tetra Tech on 5/20/08 Tuesday evening.

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As much as I love older buildings to be rehabbed, but I'm glad this building is demolished because it has been an eyesore and filled with empty promises for too many years. It is located right on Monroe & Maplewood. The existing homeowners of the Old West End deserved better and it's good for them for it to be gone.

Now there are four other buildings in the OWE area that I recommend for the city to demolish and they are (hopefully they are reading this):

1) Tremain & Ashland next to the Girl's Scout offices
2) Winthrop & Ashland next to Scott High School
3) Collingwood south of Bancroft next to Lutheran Services
4) Ashland & Columbia which is the former Tia's Bar

City tears down historic complex, owner billed $43K
City tears down complex after years of neglect
Posted on FOX 36 WUPW website 5-21-2008

OLD WEST END -- A historic apartment complex in the Old West End, constructed just before 1920, was torn down by the city Wednesday.

The complex has been on Mayor Carty Finkbeiner's dirty dozen property list and was given numerous chances to fix the place up.

"He was given ample opportunity and actually did board the building on several locations," said Mayor Finkbeiener. "But then he would not make improvements on what needed to be done on the structure to stabilize it."

The city then billed the owner of the historic complex $43,000 for the demolition.

"Sometimes the neighbors get pretty frustrated and they lose insurance on their own properties," the mayor said. "I saw a gentlemen back there quietly applauding what we had done. We had no choice."

Back in the day, the old apartment complex attracted some residents to move into the neighborhood. Some even tried to buy the building, but it was just too hard to maintain.

"Ive been here for 22 years and I moved into this neighborhood because of the historic significance buildings and the architecture," said Marge Dottling, who considered purchasing the complex.

But those who live close by are glad to see it go.

"It needs to come down," said Lance Sims, E & H Taylor Construction. "It's a hazard and it's really not a stable building, and creates a place for people to come for illegal activities."

Many say the nearly 90-year-old building was bringing in a lot of trouble.

"It's a pretty big nuisance with all the boards up on it and everything," said Rachel Spiegel. "It hasn't had people living in it in for a long time."

Two lanes of Monroe near Maple wood will be shut down and could cause some minor traffic back ups as the demolition continues.

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Poor Northwood folks (sense my sarcasm?) :|

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Apartment building near museum razed
Structure is 1st among 'Dirty Dozen'

Well, let's be realistic here. Nothing is going to get built there, and the building did not look beyond repair. This will just become another gap in a streetscape that has way too many gaps. Tearing it down does nothing but create another hole, and it certainly won't help property values. I see Toledo also tore down the original St. John's. Demolishing these historic buildings for "public nuisance" reasons does nothing to help Toledo. If they think they really have much an effect on property values or drug use, they're sadly mistaken. Those problems persist whether the building is there or not.

The only reason to spend TAXPAYER money on demolitions like these is if the building is a hazard to the public. In neither instance was that the case. The city can bill the owners all they want, but that doesn't mean the taxpayer is off the hook.

BG's historic Cla-Zel theater is sold again
Written by By DAVID DUPONT Sentinel Arts & Entertainment Editor
Wednesday, 21 May 2008

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Clazel.jpg

Ammar Mufleh is the new owner of the Cla-Zel. The downtown Bowling Green landmark, the Cla-Zel Theater, has a new owner.

Ammar Mufleh, of Toledo, has purchased the former movie house from CLA-ZEL Encore, a group of local businessmen who have owned the building since last December.

Mufleh said he's "fascinated" by historic structures, and when Andy Halleck and Tony Dishop first purchased the cinema, he offered to assist them on the project.

When they got involved in other projects, they approached him about buying the Cla-Zel. The sale price was $385,000.

Mufleh said he has been involved in commercial real estate projects in the area and other restoration projects when he lived in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Austin, Texas. His main goal is to maintain the integrity of the architecture while updating it.

He plans to use it in the same way as CLA-ZEL Encore. That would be a club focusing on a variety of entertainment, including musical acts, both local and national, possibility theater, and movies.

The projection equipment and screen in the theater, while needing work, are usable.

The offerings would be vintage, not first-run films, he said, with programs focusing on a theme.

Mufleh said he would be willing to make the venue available to community groups, including the university.

He hopes the new club will appeal to young adults through baby boomers.
Mufleh said he has crews, mostly local, lined up to start working on the project with restoration of the marquee beginning within a week or two.
He's looking forward to an opening to coincide with the Black Swamp Arts Festival in early September.

That's a tight schedule, he said, "but that's the goal."

End is nearing for Commodore in Perrysburg
Written by By DAVID DUPONT Sentinel Staff Writer
Wednesday, 21 May 2008

PERRYSBURG - The school district has taken the first step toward tearing down the oldest, and newest, sections of the Commodore school in downtown Perrysburg.

Superintendent Thomas Hosler Tuesday told the Bard of Education that the administration will seek requests for proposals to raze half the building - the original 1894 section, the 1916 section and the 1991 science wing attached to the 1916 building.

Hosler cited the building's continuing problems, including water leaking from the roof. The district has been told it would cost $268,000 to repair the roof. Officials expect to pay about $234,000 to tear the structure down.
"The fact of the matter is time's running out on this building," he said.

The school board has decided those sections of the building will never be used for either classrooms nor administrative space. An attempt to sell the property to a Michigan developer failed, when the developer, Manchester Properties, could not find businesses interested in locating on the property. Manchester would have razed the structure as well.

At various times, others have made proposals to either raze the building, or to put it to other use. From the district's point of view those proposals all lack a key element, Hosler said, "a check in hand." "We should stop apologizing for this and move on," said board member Mark Schoenlein. "It's selfish for any organization to hold us hostage to keep us in that building ... without providing the money."

He said that the district has done what it can to maintain the building, but it has just outlived its usefulness.

With the structure continuing to deteriorate, the district must take action either to repair or raze it, Hosler said. The district, he explains, needs funds to repair the remaining part of the structure, built in 1931 with later additions of a cafeteria and gym.

The district now uses those as central offices. Hosler said that will remain the case at least in the near future because it has no other viable options.
Staying in the 1931 building is not a desirable option, he said, a view echoed by board members.

"We can't continue to have staff members with buckets on their desks to catch rain water," board member Walter Edinger said.
Board member Val Hovland said that the building needs to be made safe for both employees and the public who has to visit the building on school business.

Hovland noted that the 1991 science wing of the building depends completely on the old structure for its utilities. Alone it has no plumbing or electricity.
Hosler said its roof also needs to be replaced.

Apartment building near museum razed
Structure is 1st among 'Dirty Dozen'

Well, let's be realistic here. Nothing is going to get built there, and the building did not look beyond repair. This will just become another gap in a streetscape that has way too many gaps. Tearing it down does nothing but create another hole, and it certainly won't help property values. I see Toledo also tore down the original St. John's. Demolishing these historic buildings for "public nuisance" reasons does nothing to help Toledo. If they think they really have much an effect on property values or drug use, they're sadly mistaken. Those problems persist whether the building is there or not.

The only reason to spend TAXPAYER money on demolitions like these is if the building is a hazard to the public. In neither instance was that the case. The city can bill the owners all they want, but that doesn't mean the taxpayer is off the hook.


IMHO, I think the OWE Association will be doing another corner park/streetscape like they did in various of places around the neighborhood. They dedicate huge amounts of their free time and raise funding (from the OWE festival) to maintain and beautify their small parks.

If the building were to be rehabbed they would need more parking because it looks like a 15-18 unit dwelling and it's not enough especially in today's world. This building used to be perfect for its location because it sits on the former Monroe Street Trolley line and population was far more dense in the early 1900s. Bottom line, it's too bad really that we've come to this especially with high fuel prices.

^No, it's too bad Toledo destroyed its mass transit system and deurbanized. In terms of parking, there actually was a large lot behind the building and empty space across the street. The lot looked large enough for maybe 20 cars. This demolition was a mistake.

And that still doesn't get at my main point. Taxpayers are fronting the bill for a demolition that they shouldn't be funding. This was not an emergency demolition or anything like that. The building looked structurally intact. It's not like it was falling onto Monroe Street. 2640 Monroe is a prominent location and the city has just created another hole in what was once a vibrant urban corridor. If this keeps up, it will be a corridor of nothing. Down the road, these historic buildings will be much more valuable. Without that quality housing stock, Toledo will not see repopulation or much more gentrification. This apartment is exactly the kind of building people look to rehab in vibrant urban cities. Down the road, that could be Toledo should it choose a healthier, more urban path.

The only time the city should really be paying for demolitions is in the case of public hazard. The building did not meet that condition. If the owner couldn't afford to fix the building, then he probably can't afford to pay back the city. The apartment should have just been sold to someone else and held onto until the point it's renovated or falling into the street. I can't believe people would call quality construction like that an "eyesore." You know, there were people who said the same thing about the historic warehouses around Fifth Third Field...

They also said the same thing about the Valentine Theater, the Toledo Trust Tower, the Commodore Perry, the Pythian Castle, The Toledo Steamplant, etc., etc., ETC. Point being, there are always some people who complain about vacant buildings, regardless of their structural condition or potential. The city is the last entity that should be making judgment calls on a building's worth. Let the market handle that. Obviously, if someone bought the building, they believed in its potential. Perhaps he just couldn't come up with the funding. Someone else could in the future.

^No, it's too bad Toledo destroyed its mass transit system and deurbanized.

And that still doesn't get at my main point. Taxpayers are fronting the bill for a demolition that they shouldn't be funding. This was not an emergency demolition or anything like that. The building looked structurally intact. It's not like it was falling on to Monroe Street. 2640 Monroe is a prominent location and the city has just created another hole in what was once a vibrant urban corridor. If this keeps up, it will be a corridor of nothing. Down the road, these historic buildings will be much more valuable. Without that quality housing stock, Toledo will not see repopulation or much more gentrification.

The only time the city should really be paying for demolitions is in the case of public hazard. The building did not meet that condition.

I agree to a certain degree, however, the city may be doing the demolitions with taxpayer's money but the bill will be sent to the owner. If he doesn't pay up, then property is forfeited to the city or whatnot. I find it disheartening such as the owner doesn't do crap with the building so when is enough is enough?

The building may be intact but there has been three actual fires in the past two years with vagrants in the building, overgrown weeds, steps of the building were crumbling, and abandoned cars in the lot; I drive by there every day to work and I amazed the ignorance of the owner not keeping up with the property nor redevelop it. Shame on him that it had to get to that point.

In a perfect world, I would've forced the owner to sell it to the Art Museum to redevelop itto an artist/studio living complex since the proximity is close by.

^The owner lives in Point Place, a mostly middle class neighborhood. Chances are he saw a lot of potential in the property, but just couldn't come up with the money, which is quite understandable given the grim economic picture in Ohio and Michigan. It's hard to secure money in a state like Ohio today. The "when is enough enough?" argument can be used for lots of places. How about the Steamplant downtown? I saw the OWE apartment a few months ago when going down Monroe, and the first thing that popped into my head was "wow, look at the potential of this place." Of course potential is just that- potential. Without money, it's not easy to renovate large properties like this. Perhaps the owner bought it to sell in the future, or hoped he could secure funding in the future.

It's not like he was some wealthy developer. He probably was just an ordinary citizen buying up historic properties for the hope they can be renovated some day in the future. If anything, it could be for mere protectionism of historic property in Toledo. I actually know some people like that in Vistula who are buying properties not to renovate today, but just to prevent the city from tearing them down. They're not rich, and they're mostly just working class joe's who see potential in vacant historic properties but are not in a position to spend a lot of money or secure a lot of loans. The man who owned this apartment building is probably disheartened by what happened. I remember what the owner of the Arbuckle Building went through when his place burned down. People tried accusing him of arson, insurance fraud, and then even went as far as saying the loss of the building "was a good thing since it was an eyeroe." He just was an AVERAGE guy that saw a lot of potential in a beautiful, but vacant building. His heart was broken when he lost that, and people making fun of the property only made it worse.

In other cities, renovations of properties like this have happened. The best comparisons to Toledo would be Providence and Baltimore. They're both large industrial port cities like Toledo that declined considerbly, but have seen lots of gentrification and rehabs in recent years, even on properties people called "eyesores."

The building may be intact but there has been three actual fires in the past two years with vagrants in the building

That is sad, but I hope citizens call the cops to prevent that. It's really the police department's job to handle that if it's a big problem.

In a perfect world, I would've forced the owner to sell it to the Art Museum to redevelop itto an artist/studio living complex since the proximity is close by.

Hey, that makes perfect sense to me. It doesn't have to be an expensive renovation- just livable. There are plenty of starving artists who wouldn't mind living near such a world-class institution.

US staffers: I moved this thread here because the local Toledo Newspaper (the Blade) wants all of their content out of the forums. It turns out there quite a lot of that in this thread, so I just stated a new one (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=20950538) and copied this one here for you to decide what to do with it.

I'll archive this thread and include a link to it in the new Toledo Development News thread. Jan, you may want to consider instituting forum-wide guidelines for posting news articles.