Toledo Development News [Archive] - Page 3

toledo25

October 7th, 2008, 01:15 AM

Very interesting article, please chime in your thoughts!

THINK BIG: 10 franchises that could boost NW Ohio
By Michael S. Miller Editor in Chief
mmiller@toledofreepress.com

Rock critic Dave Marsh once defined “cool” as “that which expends the least amount of energy defining itself.”

But there has to be a balance between working too hard to be cool and not working hard enough. There are a wealth of wonderful homegrown restaurants and entertainment opportunities in Northwest Ohio. But even if you patronize the zoo, museum, opera, symphony, theaters and baseball stadium on a regular basis, there are plenty of open nights on the calendar.

While recognizing that our area needs some immediate help in the jobs and quality of education departments, there needs to be some sizzle to the steak. The following is a list of entertainment and restaurant franchises that could go a long way to improving our “cool quotient” and attracting and retaining young people. Toledo may never land a Hard Rock Café (until that casino opens at Portside), but Perrysburg has a Cheesecake Factory on the way, Rossford has Bass Pro Shops and Sonic is finally here, so why not dream a little?

1. IMAX
Toledo supports a lot of movie screens, as long as they're showcasing Hollywood's mainstream. Coming off the biggest summer box office ever, the biggest hit was “The Dark Knight,” which made a lot of money from IMAX screens. IMAX is a large-format film process that dramatically increases cinema's visual and audio canvass. Cedar Point used to have an IMAX screen, but Toledoans have to travel to Ypsilanti or Detroit to get the IMAX experience. It's 48 miles to the nearest IMAX screen. Imagine the impact if our COSI, like Columbus's COSI, was attached to an IMAX screen.

Stats: The IMAX theater network consists of more than 295 IMAX theaters in 40 countries. Online: www.imax.com

2. Culver's
We love our burgers in Toledo, but unless you have been to Culver's, you are missing one of the greats: The Culver's butterburger. Not fast food so much as high-end diner food prepared quickly, Culver's also offers frozen custard and desserts to envy. There's a busy Culver's in Adrian, Mich., 38 miles away. If Adrian can support a Culver's, surely Toledo can.

Stats: Founder Craig Culver owns six Culver's and oversees more than 370 franchised restaurants in 17 states. Online: www.culvers.com

3. Common Ground Festival
Each summer, Lansing, Mich., dedicates both sides of its modest riverfront to three days of country, rock, rap and pop music acts. Top names draw thousands of people to an event that could be on our Downtown river banks. A conversation about bringing such a festival started a few falls ago, but did not gain momentum. Bowling Green's Black Swamp Blues Festival has the idea, but imagine that event transferred to the riverfront and you'll have an inkling of the vision.

Online: www.commongroundfest.com

4. Buca di Beppo
This restaurant chain, named “Joe's Basement,” specializes in “family style” Italian cuisine. That means when you order lasagna, you get a brick that can feed five people. The specialty is a “meatball the size of a baby's head.” The nearest Buca is 60 miles away in Livonia, Mich.

Stats: There are 93 Buca di Beppo restaurants in 25 states and the District of Columbia.Online: www.bucadibeppi.com

5. Dave & Buster's/GameWorks
With its casino atmosphere and ADD approach to entertainment, Dave & Busters is a video arcade game addict's heaven, with the latest in interactive and virtual technology. There's a Dave & Buster's in Westlake near Cleveland, 97 miles away, and one in Utica, Mich., 81 miles away. GameWorks, a similar franchise, has locations in Columbus and Auburn Hills, Mich.

Stats: Dave & Buster's owns and operates 46 locations in 21 states and Ontario, Canada.
Online: www.daveandbusters.com

6. Howl at the Moon
This is a dueling-piano bar that specializes in crowd sing-a-longs. It's ultimate karaoke, one of the safest ways you can give your date a sore throat. The closest location in the Flats in Cleveland, at a place that looks a lot like our still-underdeveloped Steam Plant.

Stats: Howl at the Moon has 14 locations in 12 states. Online: www.howlatthemoon.com

7. Apple Retail Store
A retail store specializing in, what else, Apple electronics devices, this store offers the latest gadgets for computers, iPods and gizmos you haven't heard of yet. The Apple Store in Aventure Fla., gets so busy, customers have to make appointments to get in. The closest Apple Store is at Briarwood mall in Ann Arbor.

Stats: Operates 199 stores in 41 states.

Online: www.apple.com/retail

8.Urban Toddler
Not yet a franchise, but a nod to young parents that could be the Starbucks of kids entertainment. At the Saline, Mich., location, 30 miles to the north, Urban Toddler features a giant room divided into play areas. There's a fire station, an art studio, a theater stage, a grocery store, a library and a café surrounding a middle section racetrack and padded play areas for tumbling. The store is attached to a retail store that focuses on kids clothes and education toys.

Online: www.myurbantoddler.com .

9. IKEA
People treat a day of IKEA shopping as a consumer theme park day. From utensils to furniture and decorations for every room in the house, IKEA is a wonderland of stuff. It's a Swedish concept, but for consumers, it's as American as credit cards and coveting. The closest IKEA is 56 miles north in Canton, Mich.

Stats: IKEA operates 260 stores in more than two dozen countries.

Online: www.ikea.com

10. Who did we leave out?
What franchises would you like to see added to the Northwest Ohio consumer landscape? E-mail your thoughts on our list or your suggestions to letters@toledofreepress.com for use in next week's issue.

As for Gameworks... TOO EXPENSIVE. If you have ever been to a Gameworks its like 2 dollars to play a video game. Toledo's economy can not support that.

Imax... I emailed Imax about 3 months ago... all it takes is for a local theater company to get in contact with them for making an IMAX theater... as they are all franchises apparently.

IKEA... also emailed them about a year ago (before the Novi store opened) and they said thanks for writing in and they will definitley look at Toledo for future projects. I explained to them how we are at the crossroads of the midwest.

Apple retail store.. Ummm Visit Best Buy on Monroe street. They now have a Apple store within the store...offering a full selection of Apple products in stock. Including the iPhone, macbook air, pro's and new iPods.

Cheers!

nickw311

October 7th, 2008, 04:28 AM

Apple retail store.. Ummm Visit Best Buy on Monroe street. They now have a Apple store within the store...offering a full selection of Apple products in stock. Including the iPhone, macbook air, pro's and new iPods.

A Best Buy is an entirely different animal from a real Apple Store. I can't take my MacBook to Best Buy to get it serviced under warranty, can't go to Best Buy and search a large selection of Mac software, can't go to Best Buy and get help from Mac Geniuses at the Genius Bar, cant get good service in general - everyone at Best Buy is going to try to pair you with some low end Gateway or other generic pc...

Basically all Best Buy does is sells the hardware - I already have a MacBook that I bought online from Apple with a student discount and no taxes - I don't need to go to Best Buy.

metrogrkid

October 7th, 2008, 07:52 PM

I'm excited about the AF2 team but I would be more excited about a full AF team. Grand Rapids, a smaller town than Toledo has the Rampage AF team.
nickw311:

I did a check on your Toledo vs. Grand Rapids population numbers. According to Wikipedia - VOILA:

City of Toledo: 295,029
Metro Toledo: 650,955

City of Grand Rapids: 197,800
Metro Grand Rapids: 1,323,095

It was Metro GR's million-plus number that won it an AFL team (as well as involvement with deep-pocketed GR-based owner Dan DeVos who also owns Orlando Magic, Orlando Solar Bears, Grand Rapids Griffins and Kansas City Blades teams).

GR City today would be very similar in size to Toledo City today if it had been smart enough to have annexed the inner-ring suburb of Wyoming Park (population 70,000) back in the 1960s. We seem to have made up for our past stupidities and then some nowadays.

Come visit, check out a Rampage game, party at Eve inside The B.O.B. entertainment complex and stay overnight at the J.W. Marriott Grand Rapids.

Mudhen419

October 18th, 2008, 12:30 AM

Pilliod Njaim

October 19th, 2008, 07:28 AM

^I saw the last Blade article, and I must say I'm pumped. While I wish the exterior wasn't so boxy, the interior does indeed look classy.

I am gonna kind of miss the "70's porn decor" though! The bizarre multi-colored chairs, carpet on floors, walls, everywhere, etc. were hilarious. The old Savage Hall was an interior designer's horror story. It took every bad design cue from the 70's and ran with it. By the way, does anyone know if Collaborative Inc. is doing the interior? I've seen their work, and I think they're probably one of the best design firms in Ohio. That company is certainly a high point in Toledo, and they're headquarted downtown.

Pilliod Njaim

October 19th, 2008, 08:24 AM

I did a check on your Toledo vs. Grand Rapids population numbers. According to Wikipedia - VOILA:

City of Toledo: 295,029
Metro Toledo: 650,955

City of Grand Rapids: 197,800
Metro Grand Rapids: 1,323,095

First off, you're using the wrong measurements. You need to be looking at market size, not metro size. DMA is what's looked at when placing sports teams, not just MSA (which mainly measures suburban-suburban commuting patterns). Second, you're using Toledo's MSA and Grand Rapids CSA, which is apples to oranges, and a totally different form of measurement. Grand Rapids CSA includes cities as far away as Muskegon (50 miles away). Toledo MSA only goes to Bowling Green (20 miles away).

Here are some real numbers that matter:

Urbanized Area
Grand Rapids: 539,080 people at 2094.7 people per square mile
Toledo: 503,008 people at 2486.1 people per square mile

So they're basically the same population in their urbanized area (central city and connected suburbs), but Toledo is denser by around 15%.

1950 Population (real urban city)
Toledo: 303,616 people at 7,927 people per square mile
Grand Rapids: 176,515 people at 7,543 people per square mile

Toledo's pre-WW2 urban city was much larger than Grand Rapids will ever be. All that matters is pre-WW2 area. After WW2, development was suburban. Toledo has a pre-WW2 urban area twice the size of what Grand Rapids has. Both Toledo and Grand Rapids have lost significant population in their 1950 boundary area, but not more than 30% in either city (which actually is low by Midwestern standards). So based on high density urban neighborhoods, Toledo is still significantly larger. The urban core of Toledo is almost twice the size of the urban core of Grand Rapids.

MSA (metropolitan statistical area)
Grand Rapids-Wyoming: 740,482
Toledo: 659,184

Pretty close here, not any significant difference in size.

And THIS is why Grand Rapids has AFL- there's no D1 college football! Also keep in mind that Grand Rapids has no competition for its media market. It's not a larger city than Toledo by any means (in fact, Toledo's pre-WW2 area is much larger), it's just Grand Rapids has no market competition. Toledo has Detroit (and Windsor), so 'nuff said. Detroit overshadows Toledo, especially in its northern suburbs.

DMA (designated media area)
Grand Rapids: 741,420 households, total population of 1,979,484
Toledo: 425,890 households, total population of 1,078,473

The Grand Rapids media market is almost the size of Cincinnati or Milwaukee's market. It's hard to believe, but it's true. Again, this has to do with the fact that Grand Rapids is all alone in western Michigan. Toledo has to compete for market with Detroit, and Detroit is one of the largest markets in America. Grand Rapids has no competition. Technically, based solely on market size, Grand Rapids could have pro sports teams, not just minor league (of course the population spread of the market matters too). Again, the Grand Rapids market is close in size to the Cincinnati market, which has 2,294,757 people. When you decide sports team locations, you look at market size, not just city size or metro size. You want to know how much reach a city has in its area. In more remote cities (Grand Rapids), you'll have more reach. Ever wonder why Green Bay has an NFL team? Despite being a tiny city a mere fraction the size of Toledo, and an urbanized area of only 187,316 people (MUCH smaller than Toledo or Grand Rapids), Green Bay has a market area with over 1 million people! It's a remote city with no competition, and it's football rabid. Market size matters, and so does the popularity of the sport in the region.

GR City today would be very similar in size to Toledo City today if it had been smart enough to have annexed the inner-ring suburb of Wyoming Park (population 70,000) back in the 1960s.

No, Grand Rapids pre-WW2 city (urban part) would not be any larger. All annexing would have done is just add another suburb to the city limits. And Grand Rapids DID annex a ton of land after 1950. It doubled its land area. So did Toledo. They're both even in the annexation department. Grand Rapids annexing Wyoming would be like Toledo annexing Sylvania and Sylvania Township.

Grand Rapids was never as big a city as Toledo. As an urbanized area and metro area today, Toledo and Grand Rapids are even. The difference lies in the fact that Toledo has to compete with a massive city like Detroit for audience, while Grand Rapids has no competition from any larger cities.

It was Metro GR's million-plus number that won it an AFL team (as well as involvement with deep-pocketed GR-based owner Dan DeVos who also owns Orlando Magic, Orlando Solar Bears, Grand Rapids Griffins and Kansas City Blades teams).

When you place sports teams, you look at market size (in which case Grand Rapids has 2 million people, Toledo has 1 million), existing sports teams, and the general popularity of the sport in the city. It's not like there's a big difference between AFL and AFL-2. They are both cheesy, modern sports leagues with very limited schedules and no popularity compared to D1 college football. For minor league sports, baseball is clearly king, then hockey. Minor league football is an absolute joke since there are so few games and average single game attendance is not much higher than a good minor league baseball game. When you only play eight home games, that's a serious problem. When looking at yearly attendance, AFL is just a fraction of what Triple-A baseball puts up. Good Triple-A baseball teams sell over 500,000 tickets a year. An AFL team would be lucky to sell 100,000. That's a BIG difference. And most people don't even know the difference between AFL and AFL-2, nor do they care. D1 college football completely murders arena football in popularity. Football was never meant to be played indoors.

And if you want to talk football, I can simply bring up the Toledo Rockets (and even BG which is right next door). UT football attendance is twice what the Grand Rapids Rage puts up. Add BG, and football attendance in the Toledo market might be four times what it is in Grand Rapids. Football and basketball are two sports that are overlooked at the minor league level because D1 college sports greatly overshadow them. You can't say the same about about college baseball or hockey. The reason minor league baseball is popular is because it's not popular at college. Ditto with hockey. The reason Toledo isn't getting AFL is not market size. It has a more to due with the fact there is already a D1 college football team, and also a second one next door. Grand Rapids has AFL because it has NO D1 COLLEGE FOOTBALL. You'll notice most AFL teams are in cities that don't have D1 college football, with the obvious exception of Columbus, Ohio.

Also keep in mind Toledo has Triple-A baseball while Grand Rapids has Single-A. And baseball is really the only minor league sport with high annual attendance since it's such a long season. Toledo is actually one of the smaller Triple-A markets, but it has a team because the Mud Hens are well-supported. Market size is not all that matters.

Mudhen419

October 19th, 2008, 10:19 AM

Itll definatly be weird walkin into Savage Hall again... Had season tickets many times and actually got to play on the court a few times.... Bout time UT basketball got something nice always seems like football gets something new........ Theres a reason for the Multi-Colored seats.... I've seen it like that at a few places... Its to make it look like theres more people there from a TV watchers point of view.

Anyone have any word on the Marina district? Was suprized to see work actually being done on the main marina rd on a SATURDAY

Microsoft Bob

October 20th, 2008, 07:42 AM

To Toledo25..... How are you gonna say dave and busters is to expensive for toledoans? I just went to the one outside cleveland last night after the cavs spurs preseason game got a 20 dollar card that lasted me and a friend who split it nearly 2 hours. Talked to a lot of people in there workers and patrons who told me people from all over come to D&B's... saw pre teen children up to seniors in there all playin games..... This place would definatly work out in toledo........

Dec 3 2008 the new savage hall opens at UT

I agree. I definitely think it would go over well in Toledo. The Franklin Park Mall area would probably be a prime location for it. Not sure if it would work out well in the downtown area or not.

I've also seen people of all ages frequent the establishment down here in Nashville, TN. There's a variety of things that you can do and play in a D&B. If you're looking for a great way to kill a couple of hours while your spouse/girlfriend/mate shops the rest of mall, then D&B is your best place of refuge. :wink2:

Mudhen419

October 22nd, 2008, 09:37 AM

No Bonjour in over a month?? Lookin forward to a pretty big update from him.....

nickw311

October 22nd, 2008, 03:32 PM

No Bonjour in over a month?? Lookin forward to a pretty big update from him.....

I've noticed that... Has the economic downturn hurt this thread also? Anyone have updated pictures of the Arena or Pizza Papellis? I was at the Blarney last weekend but it was after dark so I didn't get a good look at the progress.

nickw311

October 22nd, 2008, 07:34 PM

http://nbc24.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=210320

More than two years after ground was broken for the Brownstones townhouses in Central Toledo, work is finally being done on the project.

About $270,000 in tax money has been allocated for the project on the corner of Smead and Dorr. Project developer Jackson McDaniel admits, it's been a tough sell because people don't want to buy a townhouse that only exists on paper. "When you tell people we're going to start construction, their answer is, 'Yes we'd like to buy them.", McDaniel says. "But if you can't tell them when you're going to start construction, then the answer is, 'Call me when you're ready'".

In order to secure funding, McDaniel had to get two approved buyers. He did, and says, four more are interested.

The six unit project is expected to be completed by February of 2009.

Pilliod Njaim

October 23rd, 2008, 10:34 AM

Wow, I was wondering what was happening with that project. Thanks for the update. Anyone have pictures?

nickw311

October 23rd, 2008, 03:26 PM

Wow, I was wondering what was happening with that project. Thanks for the update. Anyone have pictures?

No pictures, but here is a video newscast of NBC24 reporting on the construction

http://nbc24.com/News/video.aspx?id=210320

Edit: I drove by there today and there were workers on the site but nothing really more than moving dirt and laying the foundation so I didn't take a picture.

cjr2

October 25th, 2008, 05:48 PM

I was listening to WSPD the other day and they mentioned a hotel chain was interested in building downtown and I was wondering if anyone had anymore information on that. And I also heard the Crowne Plaza may be shutting down is there any truth to that? Thanks

southsider

October 25th, 2008, 11:11 PM

...next to the Honda dealership on Dussel Drive in Maumee? By the building size, it looks to be a fast-food / quick service restaurant. Del Taco? Sonic??

Mudhen419

October 26th, 2008, 12:50 AM

I dont think the crowne is goin under they just redid that place and it looks awesome.....And they also seem to have plenty of business over there...

Anyone been around Papalis? Its lookin great....

Paddington

October 26th, 2008, 10:54 PM

What's happening with the I-475 I-75 interchange? Will they be adding more lanes to it?

b1gh0u5e

October 27th, 2008, 12:26 AM

They are rebuilding the Central Ave. bridge over the highway. No change to the highway itself that I'm aware of.

nickw311

October 27th, 2008, 04:20 AM

http://wnwo.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=211446

Downtown Toledo's Crowne Plaza Hotel will not close in November of this year.

The hotel at 444 N. Summit St. is currently run by Lane Hotels, Inc. The company plans to shut down and cease all operations at the hotel in November. 146 workers will be laid off on Nov. 14, 2008.

However, the hotel's parent company, Paradise Hospitality, will offer positions to those displaced workers. Hotel management confirmed this information to NBC24 Thursday.

Employees will receive notification of lay-offs in accordance with the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act.

Pilliod Njaim

October 27th, 2008, 09:16 AM

Mudhen419

October 27th, 2008, 11:25 AM

thats some good news about the hotel.... did they say how big it would be??

Anyone hear about this German fest thats coming to Toledo in a year or 2? supposed to bring around 200,000 people to toledo for 4 days.......

cjfjapan

October 27th, 2008, 03:00 PM

http://wnwo.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=211446

This story doesnt make any sense to me...is it closing or not?

tvjay

October 27th, 2008, 06:37 PM

http://wnwo.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=211446

I am very confused.

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:14 PM

This story doesnt make any sense to me...is it closing or not?

The media jumped too fast on this story which they have YET to apologize for the mis-reporting. The hotel is changing owners and keeping the Crowne Plaza company; no layoffs, no shut-downs or anything like that. Shame on the local media for reporting recklessly and not doing its homework.

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:15 PM

I am very confused.

See my response to cjfjapan's post.

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:18 PM

I would like to see that and think it would also be good to get a NBA D-league team. Ft. Wayne has one.

From what I understand that we will not be able to have the NBA D-league team due to lack of available dates or conflicting schedules at the new arena. The hockey, arena football, and the concert/show venues are dominating the arena's calendar; too bad because I think Toledo should have one and perhaps place the team at the Seagate Centre which will be adjacent to the new arena.

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:19 PM

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081005/BUSINESS10/810050283

Pizza Papalis Tavern is looking mighty good right now and yet I need to take some photos for updating purposes. I love the "in-fill" developments that are happening in the downtown area.

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:21 PM

A Best Buy is an entirely different animal from a real Apple Store. I can't take my MacBook to Best Buy to get it serviced under warranty, can't go to Best Buy and search a large selection of Mac software, can't go to Best Buy and get help from Mac Geniuses at the Genius Bar, cant get good service in general - everyone at Best Buy is going to try to pair you with some low end Gateway or other generic pc...

Basically all Best Buy does is sells the hardware - I already have a MacBook that I bought online from Apple with a student discount and no taxes - I don't need to go to Best Buy.

IMHO, Apple Store would do extremely well at Westfield Franklin Park in the outlot buildings or in the Showcase Cinema wing.

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:24 PM

To Toledo25..... How are you gonna say dave and busters is to expensive for toledoans? I just went to the one outside cleveland last night after the cavs spurs preseason game got a 20 dollar card that lasted me and a friend who split it nearly 2 hours. Talked to a lot of people in there workers and patrons who told me people from all over come to D&B's... saw pre teen children up to seniors in there all playin games..... This place would definatly work out in toledo........

Dec 3 2008 the new savage hall opens at UT

UT Savage Hall is looking good on Douglas Road and you can actually see it from both directions, before it's usually hidden or not recognizable. Now with glass, facility expansion, and more colors, it's more noticeable.

Also I noticed the groundbreaking in the lot of University Hills, Bancroft & Douglas for a new hotel. No details as of yet.

UT Field Memorial House is stunning and I always dreamed for this building to be re-used when I went to school and now it is. Great job UT!

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:26 PM

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:28 PM

No Bonjour in over a month?? Lookin forward to a pretty big update from him.....

I'm here and breathing. I've been busy working in between my primary job and teaching at college part-time; yes, a lot of updates are coming at your way! :lol:

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:30 PM

I agree. I definitely think it would go over well in Toledo. The Franklin Park Mall area would probably be a prime location for it. Not sure if it would work out well in the downtown area or not.

I've also seen people of all ages frequent the establishment down here in Nashville, TN. There's a variety of things that you can do and play in a D&B. If you're looking for a great way to kill a couple of hours while your spouse/girlfriend/mate shops the rest of mall, then D&B is your best place of refuge. :wink2:

I think D&B would go very well in the One Lake Erie Building on Huron & Jefferson which is across the street from the arena, because if COSi levy passes, they will not only get the arena business, but COSi, summer crowd, Mud Hens, downtown workers, weekend party animals and regional draw elsewhere. If downtown, the main issue they would need to address is ample of parking.

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:34 PM

I've noticed that... Has the economic downturn hurt this thread also? Anyone have updated pictures of the Arena or Pizza Papellis? I was at the Blarney last weekend but it was after dark so I didn't get a good look at the progress.

Naw, I've been so busy lately and I apologize for that. I was at the first annual Oktoberfest recently on Saturday night as they closed Huron Street between Monroe & Washington, it was so much fun and a lot of people which I was surprised since it was not advertised heavily. I read somewhere that it was successful and they will be doing it next year.

The Madison Market, Le Pam Pam cafe, Pizza/Sub place is now officially opened at the corner of Madison/Michigan across from the Main Downtown Library. Looks gorgeous! Come on down and spend money!

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:35 PM

http://nbc24.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=210320

Very good news considering it's been stalled for the past few years. It would be nifty looking with the brownstone-development along Dorr Street corridor.

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:36 PM

...next to the Honda dealership on Dussel Drive in Maumee? By the building size, it looks to be a fast-food / quick service restaurant. Del Taco? Sonic??

Not sure, but I know there's a lot of construction south of Meijer nearby which will be the Urban Fitness Center.

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:40 PM

What's happening with the I-475 I-75 interchange? Will they be adding more lanes to it?

They are adding additional lanes on SB I-75 goin/g west on I-475, also additional lanes on EB I-475 going NB I-75 due to constant congestion. This will enable to provide a relief in traffic congestion and make ways for new cloverleaf interchange at Oatis/Upton/Promedia Parkway. They will eliminate the Central Avenue/Upton ramps along with Jeep Parkway/Willys ramp and still contemplating whether to shut down Berdan ramp. With the old Jeep plant gone, it doesn't make any sense in keeping a lot of the ramps whereas they can expand the I-75/475 freeway due to its heavy 24/7 traffic.

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:41 PM

They are rebuilding the Central Ave. bridge over the highway. No change to the highway itself that I'm aware of.

Read my update post to Paddington in regards to this project.

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:46 PM

I was listening to WSPD the other day and they mentioned a hotel chain was interested in building downtown and I was wondering if anyone had anymore information on that.

yeah, Marriott is looking at downtown. I believe they want to be on the river and were looking at the surface lot off Water Street between Fort Industry Square and the waterfront. There was some argument over the asking price of the land. Hopefully something is worked out. I'd be fine with the location in front of Fort Industry Square or the empty lot where the Federal Building stood on Summit. We need more infill, and I do understand why Marriott wants to be by the water. For a hotel, that's a big asset. Notice the three largest hotels downtown are all close to the water (Crowne Plaza right on the water, and then Park Inn and Hotel Seagate on Summit).

I agree with your insight but I think it would ideal to tear down Sewergate Hotel...I mean Seagate Hotel to allow the convention center to expand for accessibilty-means only and allow Marriot in the downtown area at two of my choice location: 1) Madison/Ontario to replace asphalt parking lot or 2) Superior/Adams to replace asphalt parking lot across from Valentine Theatre. These two locations make sense in terms of traffic flow and nearby amentities. I prefer leaving the waterfront to greenways/park only because there's enough building up structure as it is on the downtown side.

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:49 PM

http://www.toledofreepress.com/2008/10/24/banner-mattress-continues-to-grow-in-toledo/

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 08:54 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081026/BUSINESS10/810260328

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 09:01 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081027/NEWS16/810270321

Bonjourtoledo

October 27th, 2008, 10:38 PM

The beauty queen is coming along nicely. :)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Arena10-27-2008.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Arena210-27-2008.jpg

Mudhen419

October 28th, 2008, 12:08 AM

Heres a link to the German Fest I was talking about "Gaufest" http://www.presspublications.com/index.php/from-the-press/666-german-downtown-invasion-to-set-festival-records

Hope the link works ok for everyone......

Oregon Ohio news....... Safe route to school act is in effect in Oregon..... Sidewalks are being put in along Starr Ave between Wheeling and Lallendorf, pickle between wheeling and lallendorf, and I have heard they will be adding more sidewalk in other areas in Oregon Oh........ This is a good move since the city has seen 2 children die from being hit by cars either going to or coming from school...... Not sure if the bike lanes on Starr will still be there......

Also in Oregon the Pickle and Coy intersection is currently being redone... they have already made it larger and added the turning lanes..... They should have the new traffic signal in within a few days

Pilliod Njaim

October 28th, 2008, 01:08 AM

southsider

October 28th, 2008, 02:54 AM

Not sure, but I know there's a lot of construction south of Meijer nearby which will be the Urban Fitness Center.

I called the building permits office, and they said it's going to be a Tim Horton's. They should do well considering they're open 24 hours and the amount of traffic that uses this road between I-475 & the turnpike.

Bonjourtoledo

October 28th, 2008, 12:33 PM

Bonjourtoledo

October 28th, 2008, 12:42 PM

Bonjour, it's great to see you back!

If downtown, the main issue they would need to address is ample of parking.

From what I gather, there's plenty of parking downtown, something like twice as many spaces than are actually used on a regular basis? We have too many surface lots in Toledo (like every big city in Ohio), and I don't even think there is demand for it. If I'm not mistaken, many of the lots were from demolitions back in the 60's and 70's when downtown had nearly twice as many workers. People were incredibly lazy and couldn't even fathom walking a block or two.

Those demolitions were a big mistake and very short-sighted, and every city in Ohio is guilty of them (Columbus might actually be the worst). Garages with street-level retail/office would have been much better alternatives. That's the trend now in urban planning to satisfy parking needs that exist, and also maintain urban structure.

Marriot in the downtown area at two of my choice location: 1) Madison/Ontario to replace asphalt parking lot or 2) Superior/Adams to replace asphalt parking lot across from Valentine Theatre.

Those would be great locations for an infill project like this, and they are close to garages and other amenities too, or perhaps the hotel would build a garage underneath itself. I've seen that done before. Madison/Ontario and Superior/Adams would both be vital in rebuilding those urban corriders and would extend the big city "urban canyon" feel.

In many ways, those would be better sites for the hotel.

And my lord, the arena is looking incredible. Talk about great infill!

Downtown is in a tight spot in terms of parking if it happens during a weekday or even during a ball game. It's quite important for the retail/restaurant businesses who wants to stay open and have spaces avail for their customers, whereas in many cases they are shut-out with baseball fans taking up the spaces. This past summer with ball games and convention (Jehovah's Witness events) happening at the same time, it was pretty tight and I firmly believe downtown need to have stronger parking enforcement to keep the masses of people moving and stop abusing the rules of parking.

With the new downtown arena coming soon, it will create opportunity to either increase transit and create innovative parking to keep people moving. I can see it now, with hockey/arena football, baseball, downtown workers, and convention shows, it will be rocking for sure.

There is a plan for a Erie Street Garage (similar to the Superior Street garage next to the Biggby's Coffee shop) to be reactivated since it was chilled in late 2003 and to be pushed for development on the street of Erie between Madison & Adams due to the new downtown arena. This particular garage development will be tied to the former 5/3 Building and also would replace the current TARTA Park Station. The Park Station is a currently a block south of the proposed garage and it would be integrated into the facility according to the information I viewed. I hope this project happens.

Bonjourtoledo

October 28th, 2008, 12:43 PM

I called the building permits office, and they said it's going to be a Tim Horton's. They should do well considering they're open 24 hours and the amount of traffic that uses this road between I-475 & the turnpike.

I'm surprised they didn't have one in that area yet.

Bonjourtoledo

October 28th, 2008, 12:48 PM

Onward! Now if the media would stop meddling with their business and let them be what they are, fill them beds folks!

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081028/BUSINESS03/810280329/-1/BUSINESS

Bonjourtoledo

October 28th, 2008, 12:50 PM

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081028/BUSINESS03/810280370/-1/BUSINESS

Bonjourtoledo

October 28th, 2008, 02:04 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081028/NEWS04/810280327/-1/NEWS

Mudhen419

October 28th, 2008, 09:48 PM

Hey bonjour whats your thoughts on this "Gaufest" see my last post......

Paddington

October 29th, 2008, 02:31 AM

I cross posted it in the German forum to see what they thought of it. :dunno:

Bonjourtoledo

October 29th, 2008, 01:48 PM

Hey bonjour whats your thoughts on this "Gaufest" see my last post......

Thanks for reminding me to read the article and it is so cool that we will be seeing this type of an event next year in downtown. As a partial German background, I will definetly be there to celebrate with the great German beers! Actually, I'm quite surprised that this is happening because the "usual" German-American festival takes place in Oregon which is kinda "eh" for me and it's quite exciting for this to happen next year.

Bonjourtoledo

October 29th, 2008, 02:06 PM

I cross posted it in the German forum to see what they thought of it. :dunno:

German forum of this site?

Bonjourtoledo

October 29th, 2008, 02:07 PM

Too bad for Tennessee but a huge plus for our region in NW Ohio considering we have some of the best skilled workers in the country. I shall not shed a tear for those Southerners because they've been poaching Ohio jobs far too long, IMHO!

Direct link: http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081029/BUSINESS07/810290431

Bonjourtoledo

October 29th, 2008, 02:12 PM

With 85 more new jobs on top of the 50 planned (135 total) to be created at the downtown locations and they will be expanding to the One Seagate Tower. Good news for downtown to allow HCR Manorcare to stay in this region and grow despite of the shaky national economy.

Direct link: http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081029/NEWS16/810290393/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

October 29th, 2008, 02:14 PM

Direct link: http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081029/NEWS16/810290291/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

October 29th, 2008, 02:26 PM

Herzing College will be coming to Toledo at Hill & Reynolds as they bought the former State Farm Insurance offices: http://www.signatureassociates.com/press_release.asp?id=081016_15

Herzing College direct site: http://choose.herzing.edu/Producer.aspx?sid=150&sky=RG8FPON6&pgi=5982&pgk=XHQ7GMLW&rid=403324&rky=IJTCMM3D&tky=128697563100956250&gclid=CI6mgeW1zJYCFRIcawodZmGIyA

Paddington

October 29th, 2008, 07:52 PM

German forum of this site?

It was followed up with numerous :lol: and pictures of photoshopped Nazis. :shifty:

:laugh:

Bonjourtoledo

October 30th, 2008, 12:46 PM

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081030/NEWS16/810309985/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

October 30th, 2008, 12:47 PM

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081030/NEWS16/810300390/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

October 30th, 2008, 12:49 PM

Finally!!!!
http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081030/NEWS16/810300337/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

October 30th, 2008, 12:51 PM

Good day and a good thing for this region.

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081030/NEWS16/810300349/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

October 31st, 2008, 07:59 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081031/NEWS16/810310275

Bonjourtoledo

November 1st, 2008, 05:26 PM

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081101/NEWS16/811010301

Bonjourtoledo

November 3rd, 2008, 01:44 PM

Third time a charm?

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081103/NEWS16/811030329/-1/NEWS

Mudhen419

November 3rd, 2008, 10:30 PM

Bonjourtoledo

November 4th, 2008, 04:33 AM

With most of the former Pharm stores being replaced by Rite Aid except at Kenwood Shopping Center on Central Avenue & Alisdale, it was kind of mind-boggling of why Rite Aid chose not to continue at that location. It's a good location because of it's proximity to UT, Toledo Hospital, busy corridor and of course the Westgate and Old Orchard neighborhoods. The good news is, the vacant Pharm space now has a new tenant. Food Town Supermarkets!!!!!!!!!

See story at this link: http://www.foxtoledo.com/dpp/news/wupw_Food_Town_returning_to_Toledo

Bonjourtoledo

November 4th, 2008, 04:38 AM

If anyone is out getting pics of downtown please snap something of the main entrance of the new arena..... the webcams and all the sites i have found that show the progress of the Lucas County Arena have no new shots of the main entrance... one would be definatly apprieciated

I'm hoping to do it this weekend because forget about me trying it during the weekdays due to the time change. It's dark and I don't get home until the early evenings, however, don't hold your breath if I can't do it. Hopefully someone can be the hero for this thread. :lol:

Bonjourtoledo

November 4th, 2008, 04:45 AM

Bad news is there will be 155 Circuit City stores closing across the nation by the end of this year and 11 of them are in Ohio. The good news is the two stores in our area (Airport Highway across from Spring Meadows and Monroe Street across from Westfield) are not affected by the closing which is very good news. I love their sale especially with the new DVD release on movies and their product selection which overrides their crappy customer service.

Link to the story: http://nbc24.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=216185
Direct link to the list of closing: http://files.shareholder.com/downloads/CC/456083125x0x245809/2BFAC9D9-6CEF-4027-9E51-1C635F42F7A7/110308%20Store%20Closing%20List.pdf

Bonjourtoledo

November 4th, 2008, 01:48 PM

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081104/NEWS04/811040348/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

November 5th, 2008, 07:14 PM

Good News!!! The COSi levy passed by 53% last night and it will be reopen soon in downtown. With a huge support from the business community of our region to invest in the exhibits and the redevelopment of the Portside facility with their own private dollars along with the levy dollars, COSi will shine brighter than ever!

Direct link to the story: http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081105/NEWS09/811050345

Direct link to COSi's site: http://www.cositoledo.org/

Bonjourtoledo

November 5th, 2008, 11:44 PM

The Tetra Tech project is moving along (very good news if you asked me).

Link to story: http://nbc24.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=217754

Pilliod Njaim

November 6th, 2008, 08:17 AM

Yeah, I'm certainly excited for a Swan Creek revitalization. It's an under-utilized resource. When all is said and done, we'll have a great riverfront on both sides of the river, AND a great creekfront too! Ten years from now, we should see a transformed urban core in Toledo, with excellent waterfront development everywhere. Once the Marina District and Swan Creek projects get done, we might be at "critical mass" in the urban core neighborhoods. I'm also excited for the redevelopment of the Triangle Building in the Warehouse District. Any updates on that project?

tk29

November 6th, 2008, 09:14 AM

^ It just recently received a $2.5 million tax credit from The Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit program which can be used to help rehab the building.
http://glasscityjungle.com/wordpress/?p=3989

Bonjourtoledo

November 6th, 2008, 02:40 PM

^ It just recently received a $2.5 million tax credit from The Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit program which can be used to help rehab the building.
http://glasscityjungle.com/wordpress/?p=3989

Thanks for the link tk29 which I read that too when the blogger posted it. I've been by the Triangle Building several times this week and they've been doing a lot of prep work with windows, bricks, and interior aspect of the building. It's amazing to see the work to begin because it's the gateway into downtown from I-75 and Anthony Wayne. Also there's an ongoing redevelopment project across the Triangle Building (south-wise) with the new home of Lamar Advertising firm at Erie & Lucas Streets.

Bonjourtoledo

November 6th, 2008, 02:44 PM

Bonjourtoledo

November 6th, 2008, 02:47 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081106/NEWS16/811060280/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

November 6th, 2008, 02:48 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081106/NEWS04/811060404/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

November 6th, 2008, 02:49 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081106/NEWS16/811060438/-1/NEWS

Pilliod Njaim

November 7th, 2008, 07:04 AM

I'm really, really pumped that COSI passed. I voted for it, and am glad I did. I think with increased marketing in Southeast Michigan and Northeast Indiana, it can really be a hub for a larger region than just Toledo and Northwest Ohio.

And damn, I'm really happy Scott is being saved. It's an OWE landmark. It's a true urban school building with great neighborhood integration, and an almost collegiate-looking campus. I was by two days ago for election coverage, and it looked gorgeous with the fall color.

nickw311

November 7th, 2008, 07:41 PM

I was downtown this morning and snapped some photos of construction there. Sorry for the quality - it was on my blackberry and it was a cloudy day.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3135/3010959598_77e793f93e.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3189/3010959456_78b5ca26d2.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3040/3010122603_8114444d85.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3189/3010959456_78b5ca26d2.jpg?v=0

The new ABLE Law and LAWO Offices:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3293/3010122677_0c10e29c62.jpg?v=0

Pizza Papellis [sp?]:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3064/3010959290_96a9446154.jpg?v=0

Mudhen419

November 10th, 2008, 05:40 AM

HAHA Rossford... thats what u get for tryin to lure hockey away from toledo..... I would have liked to see the ampitheater constructed since there arent to many good outdoor venues around toledo.....

Oregon Ohio news........ In this weeks metro press theres an article about Sonic trying to get Oregon to change there ordinance on drive in restuarants. It also said Panera Bread was planning on putting a location in Oregon.

Both Pickle and Brown rd over passes (over 280) have been reconstructed and the Pickle/Coy intersection improvments are almost finished. When I drove by Sunoil off wheeling they were moving the fences back in preperation for the Wheeling Widening project (Navarre Ave to Pickle)

Thanks for the updated arena pics

Bonjourtoledo

November 12th, 2008, 02:38 PM

Thanks for the progress pictures of the downtown developments nickw311!

Bonjourtoledo

November 12th, 2008, 02:38 PM

Bonjourtoledo

November 12th, 2008, 02:41 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081112/NEWS04/811120361/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

November 12th, 2008, 02:43 PM

In regards to the former Penta campus south of OCC main campus: http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081112/NEWS04/811120382/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

November 12th, 2008, 02:44 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081111/NEWS16/811110337/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

November 12th, 2008, 02:48 PM

http://www.foxtoledo.com/subindex/news/business

Bonjourtoledo

November 12th, 2008, 02:51 PM

Fallen Timbers for Sale?
Posted on WTVG 13ABC website
Direct link: http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/story?section=news/local&id=6498528

Shares of General Growth Properties, the developers of The Shops at Fallen Timbers, plunged again today. The big question is if and how the company's troubling financial status will impact the future of Fallen Timbers, which just opened more than a year ago.

GGP shares traded as low as 33 cents a share this morning. A year ago, shares had been as high as $51. General Growth has more than a billion dollars in debt due by December 1. GGP's malls feature more than 24,000 stores nationwide.

A spokesperson for GGP tells us the company is considering selling 200 of its properties. They wouldn't elaborate on which or if Fallen Timbers is one of those.

We've heard the Westfield Group which owns Franklin Park Mall and Simon Property Group based in Indianapolis are interested in acquiring Fallen Timbers. Simon wouldn't comment on that possibility and Westfield did not return our call for comment.

Bonjourtoledo

November 12th, 2008, 03:01 PM

New $6M hotel to locate in Maumee
Landmark Development of Ohio plans Microtel Inns & Suites
Posted Toledo Business Journal website
November 2008 Edition

Plans for a new $6 million Microtel Inns & Suites are under way on Tollgate Drive in Maumee. The project is currently in the permitting stage; the groundbreaking is expected early this month once the Maumee Municipal Planning Commission gives final approval. The hotel will likely be completed by April or May.

Microtel is a Wyndham Worldwide Corporation brand. It was purchased from Global Hyatt Corporation earlier this year. The Maumee hotel is owned by Tollgate Ventures.

The hotel is a budget brand in terms of cost but, according to Landmark Development of Ohio, the real estate developer and general contractor for the project, it has similar rooms and all the amenities of a mid-tier brand.

The site, approximately 1.8 acres of vacant land — is located just north of Dussel Drive and in close proximity to both I-475 and I-80/90. A Tim Hortons restaurant is also currently under construction on the site adjacent to the hotel. Landmark Development explained that the Dussel area is a natural stop for hotels due to its closeness to both interstates, and it will likely be the closest hotel to the Turnpike once completed.

Landmark Development owns the territory and plans to have another Microtel in the Toledo area in another year. A third hotel is being considered as well.

In addition to the Microtel facilities, Landmark Development's portfolio includes several custom homes, strip centers, gas stations, and a restaurant. Two of its recent projects are a recently completed strip center in Northwood and The Hamptons subdivision on Stitt Road, about a mile from The Shops at Fallen Timbers. According to the company, it is looking to diversify in other areas as well.

The four-story, 38,000 square foot Maumee Microtel will include 85 rooms, an indoor pool, a conference center, an exercise room, a breakfast area, guest laundry room, and a large lobby with a business center. Room amenities include a flat-screen television, complimentary wired and wireless Internet access, free long distance phone calls, microwave, coffee maker, and window seat. According to Landmark Development, the design was provided by Microtel and follows its newest prototype.

Microtel's newest prototype was unveiled late last year. "Microtel's new suite design is functional and cost efficient to build, operate, and maintain, and we expect it to set a new standard for economy hotels," stated Roy E. Flora, chief operating officer of US Franchise Systems, Inc., parent company of the franchisor of the Microtel brand. "We have created a contemporary and inviting space that is streamlined yet practical."

Additionally, Landmark Development explained that the hotel brand offers accessible rooms, employees trained in disability etiquette in each of its locations, and special amenities for travelers with disabilities.

"People with disabilities have to consider accessibility when planning vacations, business trips, and other travel," stated Dr. Glen House, founder of Disaboom, an online community for disabled individuals that has partnered with Microtel.

According to Microtel, it has established standard prototypical designs in its hotels, going beyond ADA-compliance guidelines to ensure that all hotels feature 25% more designated rooms than required for guests with disabilities. The hotel chain also offers Opening Doors® training for disability etiquette to staff at each of its hotels. The Opening Doors program teaches hospitality employees how to be friendly and helpful to travelers with disabilities and special needs and also offers practical service skills such as customer relations, operational procedures, emergency and safety considerations, and an awareness of "people first" terminology. In addition, each hotel features "Access Microtel" accessibility guides, "Accessible Fitness" bags, and Upper Body Ergometers for guests with special needs.

Bonjourtoledo

November 12th, 2008, 03:05 PM

^^ Tim Hortons development is happening nearby the Microtel Hotel development as you can see the article in above post.

Direct link of Tim Hortons with picture: http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081109/BUSINESS03/811090276/-1/ARCHIVES30

Bonjourtoledo

November 12th, 2008, 03:07 PM

Solar facilities growing in Wood County
$241M to be invested into Perrysburg projects creating 534 new jobs
Posted on Toledo Business Journal website
November 2008 Edition

Wood County has become home to a number of growing solar energy companies. Two of them are investing $241 million into Perrysburg — First Solar, Inc. and Williard & Kelsey Solar Group, LLC have made plans to bring a total of 534 new jobs to northwest Ohio. A third company, Calyxo USA Inc., is growing its operations in the solar energy market as well.

According to Tom Blaha, executive director, Wood County Economic Development Commission (WCEDC), northwest Ohio offers key benefits for solar companies to locate in the region. He stated, "I think what the companies saw in Wood County was a tradition that we have throughout northwest Ohio; it's not just in Wood County.

"That tradition is the history in the glassmaking industry. Glass is the raw material that the solar panels are built onto. The company that's now First Solar…was started by a well-known northwest Ohio entrepreneur named Harold McMaster. He has since passed away, but this company is a legacy that has grown out of his inventions…

"Because of the fact that we have this history / background in the glassmaking industry, it means that there's a background for the kinds of things that are needed to make the solar panels. That includes not just companies and people that know how to make glass, but companies and people that know how to make glassmaking equipment, machines that create the glass and bend the glass, and so on."

First Solar, Inc.

First Solar broke ground last month for a two-phase expansion at its Perrysburg Township facility. It will be investing $54 million in a new research and technology center and $82 million to expand its manufacturing operations. This expansion will assist in keeping northwest Ohio at the forefront of the development of alternative energy resources and technology.

The investment will add approximately 500,000 square feet of manufacturing, research and development, and office space as well as at least 134 new jobs to the facility's current workforce of 700.

First Solar is collaborating with State and local leaders on a comprehensive incentive package for these two projects. These incentives are central to First Solar's expansion plans in Ohio and are subject to approval by state and local authorities.

The expansion will add a fourth production line and reconfigure the company's original pilot line to bring the manufacturing facility to the same four-line configuration as the company's five other plants, located in Germany and Malaysia.

Completion of the expansion is expected in the second quarter of 2010 and will increase the annual capacity at the Perrysburg facility to approximately 192 megawatts (based on run rates for the second quarter of 2008), according to the company.

"First Solar is excited to move forward with this expansion," Bruce Sohn, First Solar president, stated. "Our growing capacity allows us to continue reducing the cost of solar electricity to a level competitive with conventional sources. The associates at our Ohio manufacturing plant are making a singular contribution to energy supply and a cleaner, healthier environment."

Additionally, First Solar will construct a separate facility to support increased development activities associated with its advanced thin film solar module manufacturing technology.

"Scaling our manufacturing capacity while taking advantage of existing infrastructure will incrementally lower the manufacturing cost per watt at a rate comparable to our lowest cost facility in Malaysia," Sohn explained. "The expansion of our operations in Ohio is a direct result of the outstanding achievements of our associates and a strong, ongoing partnership with State and local leaders."

"First Solar is the jewel in our economic development crown. We are pleased to have had the opportunity to help them expand at each stage along the way. They are the nucleus of our renewable energy strategy and we appreciate this most recent vote of confidence in our community," added Blaha.

Williard & Kelsey Solar Group, LLC

Willard & Kelsey Solar Group, LLC is planning to locate its headquarters, research and development, and initial production operations in Perrysburg. The group will be building solar cells out of a Progress Drive facility, formerly the Delafoil operations.

The project includes the acquisition of a 252,000 square foot manufacturing facility to house four production lines for the manufacturing of a vacuum-coating, patented, proprietary system for the production of new thin cell solar panels.

Ohio was in competition with Kentucky, Florida, and Mississippi for this $105 million project, which is expected to create 400 new full-time jobs and retain 10 existing full-time jobs within three years of the project's initial operations.

The company has been awarded a State tax 60% credit for a ten-year term for its facility in Perrysburg. The value of the tax credit is estimated at approximately $3.5 million over the term, and the company would be required to maintain operations at the project site for 20 years.

William Mitchell, president / CEO of Willard & Kelsey, explained that his company is in the process of finalizing development of the process of making solar cells. It has secured bridge funding and anticipates four phases of development for the Delafoil building, as it has the capacity for four production lines.

Willard & Kelsey, formed in November 2007, is an Ohio Limited Liability Company established for the purpose of developing and manufacturing thin cell solar panels for worldwide distribution.

Calyxo USA Inc.

Another Wood County company is growing its operations in the solar energy market. Calyxo USA Inc. is a joint venture of Solar Fields LLC and Q-Cells, a large corporation headquartered in Germany.

The company's founder, Norm Johnston, has been instrumental in advancing the market for solar energy in the US. Johnston worked to form an association of 25 Ohio companies, Ohio Advanced Energy (OAE). OAE and Johnston were instrumental in passing Ohio Senate Bill 221 this past May. The new legislation requires that 12.5% of Ohio?s electricity must come from renewable energy generation facilities by 2025.

"The key to getting this important legislation was the bipartisan effort that went into creating Senate Bill 221," Johnston stated. "We now have a shot at getting new alternative energy businesses to come to Ohio."

Calyxo is currently constructing a 140,000 square foot manufacturing plant in Germany. The company plans to build additional manufacturing plants in the US and in selected foreign markets.

Calyxo will manufacture solar panels that will be installed at selected sites to generate electricity. The sites will essentially be fields of solar panel arrays.

According to the company, it is able to produce electricity at a competitive cost using the solar technology that it will be employing.

Wood County solar energy

Blaha concluded, "We have begun to build a critical mass in this industry that's still probably seen by most of the United States as sort of an infant business. We have already begun to develop a critical mass for it. We have over 700 people employed in making solar panels in Wood County. We have 6,000-7,000 people in those backup industries that I mentioned — glass machinery and so on — not just in Wood County but in the neighboring counties as well.

"What's good for Wood County is good for all of northwest Ohio. Not just for providing employment and employees for other counties, but also being a customer for other industries in those surrounding counties."

Bonjourtoledo

November 12th, 2008, 08:36 PM

Something I noticed during my lunch today, the regional office of Huntington Bank in downtown Toledo at the corner of Madison & Huron has now installed a "huge" logo sinage on their headquarters facing south toward the new arena. It is installed on either 7th of 8th floor and I wonder if it will light up at night like the most recent signage installations of Crowne Plaza, Fifth Third Bank and AT&T. Downtown is sure lighting up these days.

I anticipate that as soon as PNC Banking Company out of Pittsburg takes over Cleveland's National City Bank due to the recent banking/financial bail-out by the US government that they will be adding the "PNC" logo onto the original Owens Corning building that is on Madison & St. Clair.

Bonjourtoledo

November 12th, 2008, 08:37 PM

Event level seatings goes on sale!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! See link: http://www.toledofreepress.com/2008/11/12/event-level-arena-season-tickets-to-go-on-sale/

tk29

November 12th, 2008, 11:51 PM

You can see the Huntington Bank sign on the arena webcam. Pretty cool!

As for Oregon, I heard on WTOL 11 that there are plans for up to three restaurants and a hotel on Navarre. Maybe Sonic?

Bonjourtoledo

November 13th, 2008, 01:32 AM

Yeppers! The new huge Huntington Bank logo sign does light up at night and it's bright!

Bonjourtoledo

November 13th, 2008, 01:49 AM

These great pictures was taken recently by b1gh0u5e of the new downtown arena, Marina District and its surrounding area:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/009.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/010.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/011.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/012.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/013.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/014.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/015.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/016.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/017.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/018.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/019.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/020.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/021.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/022.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/023.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/024.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/025.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/026.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/027.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/028.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/029.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/030.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/031.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/032.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/034.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/035.jpg

Bonjourtoledo

November 13th, 2008, 04:56 AM

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081112/NEWS16/811120194

Bonjourtoledo

November 13th, 2008, 04:58 AM

http://www.wtol.com/global/story.asp?s=9338151

Bonjourtoledo

November 13th, 2008, 07:56 PM

Yeppers! The new huge Huntington Bank logo sign does light up at night and it's bright!

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Picture008.jpg

Bonjourtoledo

November 13th, 2008, 07:58 PM

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081028/BUSINESS03/810280370/-1/BUSINESS

City of Toledo council and mayor passed the tax credit for expansion and job creation this past Tuesday night.

Bonjourtoledo

November 13th, 2008, 08:01 PM

Thanks for the link tk29 which I read that too when the blogger posted it. I've been by the Triangle Building several times this week and they've been doing a lot of prep work with windows, bricks, and interior aspect of the building. It's amazing to see the work to begin because it's the gateway into downtown from I-75 and Anthony Wayne. Also there's an ongoing redevelopment project across the Triangle Building (south-wise) with the new home of Lamar Advertising firm at Erie & Lucas Streets.

Today's (11-13-08) photos to see progress:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Picture005.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Picture006.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Picture001.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Picture003.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Picture010.jpg

Bonjourtoledo

November 13th, 2008, 08:05 PM

These photos were taken today (11-13-08). Enjoy! :banana:

Hannon's Block on Monroe/Erie:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Picture011.jpg

Pizza Papalis Tavern (former Brenda Body Shop) on Monroe & Huron:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Picture009.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Picture007.jpg

YWCA Expansion on Jefferson/10th:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Picture002.jpg

Former Studebaker Car Dealer Building Redevelopment on Adams/13th:
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/Picture004.jpg

Bonjourtoledo

November 13th, 2008, 08:08 PM

Good News! Direct link: http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081113/NEWS16/811130232

Bonjourtoledo

November 13th, 2008, 08:14 PM

Updates on various high-profile regional projects from Mr. Dillin himself with Levis Commons, Southwyck and Marina District.

Dillin Describes Project Delays
Master Developer Admits Progress in Getting Retailers for Southwyck and Marina District is Slow
Posted on WSPD Newsradio website 11-13-08

The construction season's almost over-- so you won't see much more progress on the Marina District other than new roads and infrastructure. But developer Larry Dillin admits you won't see any national retailers anytime soon, either, and has adjusted the first phases of the project.

Dillin is even turning to non-traditional lending sources to fund future private phases...such as pension funds, real estate investment trusts, and life insurance companies. Dillin says his vision for the future Villages at Southwyck is still doable, but progress in that project is also slow.

Dillin is even delaying the next phase of for-sale housing at Levis Commons and instead focusing on more rental units, which have a waiting list.

jpIllInoIs

November 13th, 2008, 11:02 PM

Holy Crap Bonjour, Great updates. I am loving the Triangel bldg conversion. And the Pizza Papalis Tavern..now that's what I'm talking 'bout!

Mudhen419

November 14th, 2008, 12:30 AM

Awesome updates and input everyone!

Bonjour, I've been hearing for a few years now that a target or Kohls has been looking to build in Oregon but havent heard anything lately..... And Since I moved out to Perrysburg I dont get the Metro Press or Neighbors east section anymore.. I had a friend who lived on Navarre down by where they wanted to put the new store (oppostie side of navarre from pearson park) who had his house bought and tore down and I heard a while back Dairy Depot (the next property over with someothing built on it) was supposed to be next but last year they added on a drive thru window..... So im not sure if there ready to shut down yet.

Oregon is havin a hard time filling in the plaza's they built a few years ago next to Walmart.

b1gh0u5e

November 14th, 2008, 02:24 AM

Pilliod Njaim

November 14th, 2008, 05:01 AM

Bonjour, thanks for all the updates.

Bonjourtoledo

November 14th, 2008, 02:43 PM

Bonjourtoledo

November 14th, 2008, 02:55 PM

That Pizza Papili's Tavern is pretty slick. Those are large garage style doors on the side and it will really feel like an extension of the stadium when its open before and after games. I think it also will help draw more attention to the Blarney across the street...which also looks really nice after the renovations...but seemed to just be by itself until now.
With the arena coming along, and several buildings in the immediate vicinity being upgraded, I could see this area doing very well someday.
Just up Monroe St. is another building with loft apartments and 1st floor commercial. Anyone have any info on this project? Any tenants?
Also, what's the occupancy of Bartley Lofts now?

The building you are referring to on Monroe is the "Hannon's Block", the plans to have commercial on first floor and residential on the 2nd/3rd floor. It's too early to tell of who's occupying because they are still in the early construction/rehabbing phase of the project.

The occupancy for Bartley is 62%, with 32 out of 52 units being sold which is good because they opened to the public shortly before the national housing crisis began. Direct link: http://www.bartleylofts.com/index.htm

River West Townhomes on St. Clair Street is 70%, with 28 out of 40 units being sold and it was also opened before the housing crisis. Direct link: http://www.riverwesttownhomes.com/index.html

Huron Lofts on Huron & Lafayette and Ottawa Lofts on Owens Corning Pkwy/Broadway Street are currently in full occupancy.

Bonjourtoledo

November 14th, 2008, 02:56 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081114/BUSINESS02/811140297

Bonjourtoledo

November 14th, 2008, 02:58 PM

Need a job or a change in career? Click on the link provided below:
http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081114/BUSINESS07/811140346

Bonjourtoledo

November 14th, 2008, 03:01 PM

Good News! Direct link: http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081113/NEWS16/811130232

Follow-up story at this link: http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081114/NEWS16/811140361/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

November 14th, 2008, 03:06 PM

In regards to the former Penta campus south of OCC main campus: http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081112/NEWS04/811120382/-1/NEWS

Link to the story of another development project on Oregon Road:
http://www.toledofreepress.com/2008/11/13/owens-plans-emergency-training-facility/

Bonjourtoledo

November 14th, 2008, 03:10 PM

Once the Johnny's Lunch company grows on a national scale, I suggest they get a headquarters established in downtown Toledo nearby their proposed downtown restaurant which has yet to be revealed. I love their hot dogs and burgers when I feel like cheating my diet from time to time.

Direct link to the story: http://www.toledofreepress.com/2008/11/13/johnny%e2%80%99s-grows-in-toledo-nation/

Pilliod Njaim

November 16th, 2008, 10:59 AM

Man I love Hannon's Block, what a beauty. Great to see such an historic building renovated.

nickw311

November 17th, 2008, 04:27 AM

What's going into the Former Studebaker Car Dealer Building

Pilliod Njaim

November 18th, 2008, 08:43 AM

^lofts?

Mudhen419

November 18th, 2008, 01:39 PM

Bonjourtoledo

November 18th, 2008, 02:59 PM

What's going into the Former Studebaker Car Dealer Building

As I recall, I believe residential lofts on 2nd-3rd floor, art space and commercial space on first floor.

Bonjourtoledo

November 18th, 2008, 03:00 PM

Bonjourtoledo

November 18th, 2008, 03:06 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081118/SPORTS10/811180347

Perfect name for a new team in a great town with a nifty, spiffy new arena. I am more of a football fan than a hockey fan, in fact, I could care less for hockey. IT's a good day to know that a football team is coming to Toledo!

GO BULLFROGS!!!!!!

:banana::banana2::righton::carrot::dance2::scouserd::cucumber::cheers1::rock::applause::booze::pepper::okay::nocrook::cheer:

Bonjourtoledo

November 18th, 2008, 03:09 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081118/NEWS16/811180327/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

November 18th, 2008, 03:11 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081118/NEWS04/811180350/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

November 18th, 2008, 03:27 PM

South Toledo Company Adding 20 Jobs
Sheet-Metal Firm Has Made Panels for New Arena and Fifth Third Field
Posted on WSPD 1370 AM Newsradio website
Direct link: http://wspd.com/cc-common/news/sections/local/?newsart=5

A family owned sheet-metal company in South Toledo plans to add 20 jobs over the next year...as it expands into architectural metals. Ken Gabel of V-M Systems says the company has made wall panels for Fifth Third Field and the new downtown arena. Ryan Reiter of the city's department of development offered $90,000 worth of tax incentives spread over the next 15 years.

Bonjourtoledo

November 18th, 2008, 04:43 PM

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/arena11-18-08.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y297/Decker9999/arena211-18-08.jpg

Pilliod Njaim

November 19th, 2008, 01:58 AM

^Bounjour, did you take that first picture from the roof of the Ohio Building?

Pilliod Njaim

November 19th, 2008, 02:01 AM

Perrysburg is somethin else.... youd never know theres an economic crisses going on right now if you never left the city..... We just won some award for most livable city or soemthing.... I guess the judges didnt get ran off the road by BMW's like i have a few times already. Lots of new stuff being built out here......

Perrysburg Township continues to sprawl to kingdom come, even in the face of multi-regional population stagnation. That's not healthy, and in the long run, it will be at their own expense. Anything built in the township right now will not be sustainable in the long run. Keep in mind that suburban developments never pass the test the time. Look at Southwyck or the plethora of other empty suburban developments in the region that were replaced with newer suburban developments even further from the core city. Something newer and "better" always comes along and kills the previous development. It's the story of America. Townships all over the country are continuing to do this. They have very few zoning standards and encourage sprawl. This actually hurts Perrysburg City since it takes business away from their traditional small town downtown.

What Perrysburg Township is doing is "growing for the sake of growing." That's also the goal of the cancer cell. ;)

The old core of Perrysburg (downtown and historic neighborhoods) are quite livable and sustainable. In fact, old Perrysburg ranks as one of the best suburbs in the state (along with old Maumee). But the township? Hell no. The relationship between Perrysburg City and Perrysburg Township is similar to the set-up between Maumee versus Monclova Township and Sylvania City versus Sylvania Township.

Classic example of the destruction this can produce is the new hospital being built in Monclova only about two miles from St. Luke's Hospital. Naturally, St. Luke's and Maumee are not happy about this (though at least the Monclova Hospital will be small). A lot of times, the townships are hurting their nearby incorporated suburbs more than they're hurting Toledo. Maumee has been bleeding to Monclova Township for quite some time now.

Bonjourtoledo

November 19th, 2008, 03:26 PM

^Bounjour, did you take that first picture from the roof of the Ohio Building?

I forgot to give credit to Buckeye Cablesystem that provides the shots of the new arena from top of the Ohio Building. I got the shots from the Lucas County Arena site.

Bonjourtoledo

November 19th, 2008, 03:27 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081119/BUSINESS05/811190370

Bonjourtoledo

November 19th, 2008, 03:30 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081119/NEWS16/811190442/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

November 19th, 2008, 03:35 PM

The official website: http://www.toledobullfrogs.com/

Bonjourtoledo

November 19th, 2008, 04:27 PM

Notice the dragonfly is part of the logo as well, so cool!

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

Bonjourtoledo

November 19th, 2008, 06:07 PM

CSX to start construction in January
Written by By JAN LARSON Sentinel County Editor
Wednesday, 19 November 2008
Direct link to the story: http://www.sent-trib.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=8223&Itemid=81

The last hoop was jumped through Tuesday for the $80 million CSX project west of North Baltimore. By the end of January, construction should begin on the railroad's 500 acres in Henry Township. The Wood County commissioners voted unanimously to approve a Joint Economic Development District contract between North Baltimore and Henry Township. The agreement will allow the district to capture 1 percent of the tax on labor used to construct the CSX intermodal facility.

"It's not been easy to hammer this thing out," Bowling Green attorney Rex Huffman said to the county commissioners. But the "exemplary" leadership of village and township officials resulted in the political partnerships rising above their conflicting interests for the overall good of the area.
"I really applaud the township trustees, the village council and the mayor," Huffman said. Dan Murphy, representing CSX, said the teamwork of the region has helped the project progress. "If CSX had similar experiences everywhere, our stock would be selling for $100 - which would be a good thing," he said. If construction goes as planned, the railyard should be in operation by the end of 2010. The site is expected to employ 50 to 75 people.

And most likely, those numbers will be just the beginning - with several spinoff industries predicted. "We look forward to working with you guys and hope for a lot of good news to come," Commissioner Tim Brown said. A meeting is being held later this week to discuss the types of additional developments that can be expected in the area. "We want to make sure we don't miss any opportunities," Brown said.
A similar type of meeting was held before Bass Pro built in Rossford.

The discussions will also focus on the type of traffic that can be expected from the CSX facility, and the type of utilities needed - "so we can stay ahead of the curve," Murphy said. A portion of the JEDD funds collected may go to pay for improvements to infrastructure near the rail site. The money will be split with 50 percent going to Henry Township, 30 percent to North Baltimore and 20 percent to the JEDD.

tk29

November 19th, 2008, 06:57 PM

From ToledoWalleye.com:
http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii128/biz298/20081118_thumb.jpg

Bonjourtoledo

November 20th, 2008, 01:36 PM

*GASPS!*

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081120/BUSINESS10/811200366/-1/BUSINESS

Bonjourtoledo

November 20th, 2008, 01:45 PM

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081120/NEIGHBORS03/811190427/-1/NEIGHBORS

Bonjourtoledo

November 20th, 2008, 01:50 PM

Keep in mind they do NOT have a downtown (seriously).

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081120/NEIGHBORS02/811190426/-1/NEIGHBORS

Pilliod Njaim

November 20th, 2008, 09:33 PM

^Northwood's plan for downtown district is a step in the right direction.

Mudhen419

November 21st, 2008, 11:47 AM

I hope Woodville mall doesnt lose my all time favortie chineese fast food (O.K. Wok) Its the last food outlet in the mall.

There was a meeting with Dillin at the German American Fests Oak shade grove club house about the Marina district. Not sure what it was about but there was a short clip on atleast one of the news channels. I also saw earlier this week the Glass City Marina won some sort of an award.

While I was looking for news on the Marina District I found this site... Check it out www.marinadistrictcondo.com/ its for Sanduskys marina district.

Mudhen419

November 22nd, 2008, 01:12 AM

Utrockets.com has another new video for the almost complete Savage Arena. First game at the newly redone arena will be December 3 against UMASS. This game is close to selling out.

tk29

November 22nd, 2008, 02:26 AM

There was a meeting with Dillin at the German American Fests Oak shade grove club house about the Marina district. Not sure what it was about but there was a short clip on atleast one of the news channels.

Marina District update from Fox 36 including: "Dillin is planning an announcement soon that will impact the marina district, something that hasn't been done anywhere in the country. Once finding is secured he will make a formal announcement.
http://www.foxtoledo.com/dpp/news/wupw_Marina_district_sees_progress

Mudhen419

November 24th, 2008, 12:07 PM

Dont know if anyone posted about this yet.... http://www.presspublications.com/index.php/from-the-press/171-pages-of-the-press/1017-5-million-grant-gives-boost-to-the-port-of-toledo

Bonjourtoledo

November 24th, 2008, 08:22 PM

Dont know if anyone posted about this yet.... http://www.presspublications.com/index.php/from-the-press/171-pages-of-the-press/1017-5-million-grant-gives-boost-to-the-port-of-toledo

Yes this already been posted several times in the past few months under the title of "Former Chevron Redevelopment News".

Bonjourtoledo

November 24th, 2008, 08:26 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081124/NEWS16/811240268

Good news, now focus on getting direct flights to the following destinations: Toronto, NYC, Washington DC, and Dallas. We can transfer to other airlines when reaching these cities--forget about Atlanta, Cincy, Pitts and Cleveland since we no longer go there.

Bonjourtoledo

November 24th, 2008, 08:28 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081121/BUSINESS02/811210257/-1/BUSINESS

*WHEW!*

b1gh0u5e

November 29th, 2008, 06:18 AM

Mudhen419

November 29th, 2008, 11:07 AM

I second that b1ghou5e.... They have an awesome squad over there at Southview....

Anyone else seen the giant forsale sign at the Pilkington Development? Definatly an eye catcher but it was dark so I couldnt read any other details

Pilliod Njaim

November 30th, 2008, 09:11 AM

Congratulations to the Sylvania Southview Cougars football team!!!!
Ohio Division II football champs after an amazing win over defending state champs Cincinatti Anderson.
It's not too often that a team from NW Ohio can compete with the big boys from Cincinatti, Cleveland, and Columbus.

Yeah, that was pretty awesome, and actually fun to watch on TV. My cousin is on the team, so a lot of my family went to the game, but we didn't make it. A lot of these guys have D1 colleges looking at them! That's amazing, and not something easy to do coming from the Toledo area, which traditionally doesn't compete in football with Northeast Ohio or Cincinnati area teams at the state level.

Toledo area is typically more competitive in basketball (Scotty, St John's, Libbey, etc.) than it is in football, so to have Southview win this really says a lot about what those kids pulled off. There are probably a lot of people pissed off in the Cincinnati area right now, and I love it.

Mudhen419

December 3rd, 2008, 12:23 AM

http://www.presspublications.com/index.php/from-the-press/171-pages-of-the-press/1051-larry-dillin-says

Interesting article on the Marina district..... It was in the metro press......

Also Arena419.com did a small update

Savage Arena re-opens tommorow UT vs Umass

4silverrings

December 4th, 2008, 05:30 AM

Bonjourtoledo

December 4th, 2008, 03:05 PM

Indoor ski slope... :lol: ...total joke.

Anyone care to make a guess?

LOL! Silly boy. I'd like to think it will be an IMAX movie theatre with indoor surf/wave pool hotel.

Bonjourtoledo

December 4th, 2008, 03:07 PM

GOOOOO ROCKETS! A good day with an awesome debut of the redeveloped arena and beating UMASS at our first home game! :banana:

Direct link to the story:http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081204/NEWS16/812040383

Bonjourtoledo

December 4th, 2008, 03:11 PM

nickw311

December 5th, 2008, 06:16 AM

There is a construction crew at tearing down the BP (where the attendant was shot and killed) at Dorr and Secor right on the UT campus. Anyone know what is going on there?

nickw311

December 5th, 2008, 06:36 AM

Direct link to the story: http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081204/BUSINESS02/812040346/-1/BUSINESS

What are your thoughts on the Big Three Auto Loan (it's not a bailout nor a free hand-out, they are asking for a loan which will be paid back)? If we can give away $700B to Paulson's banking buddies with no oversight nor provisions, I see no problem helping out the American auto companies. Enough of the slamming, get moving on it and I wish Obama's first day in office was now because it's not soon enough of the way our country is in economic turmoil.

I am conflicted about the Big 3 bridge loan. One one hand, the consequences of bankruptcy will be bad, and particularly detrimental in this area. Furthermore, the ripple effects will cause major, but temporary problems with the entire economy; more job losses with suppliers and uncertainty in the entire auto industry.

On the other hand, the airlines filed for bankruptcy just a few years ago and (some) emerged as more efficient companies without any major issues.

My thoughts on the Big 3 are that they have completely ignored ALL consumer sentiments, market trends, foresight, and common sense for at least the last 25 years.

It started with GM in the 80s not valuing their employees and trying to automate everything and laying off large amounts of employees (the entire town of Flint, MI).

Their contempt for employees then morphed into ignorance of consumer trends and desires. Instead of developing fuel efficient cars for the future they spent their money fighting legislation intended to improve fuel efficiency and help the environment. The Big 3 consciously disregarded all foresight and did what was quick, easy and profitable. They built Escalades, Excursions, Suburbans, Tahoes, Durangos, Hummers, and anything in between. When gas prices predictably went up, they were left with nothing that consumers desired.

The UAW is also a major problem. They are locked in extremely lucrative contracts and have WAY too much bargaining power. The purpose of unions is to equalize bargaining power between powerful corporations and meager employees, not to give the employees vastly superior bargaining power than the company.

While I understand that bankruptcy may cause problems, I have a hard time supporting the bridge loan to the Big 3.

In total, I am completely disgusted with what has happened in the economy in the last 4 or so years - I don't know what to think anymore. I can't wait for January 20th.

On a side note, my next car will be a Smart Car (http://www.smartusa.com/)

rustbeltrevival

December 5th, 2008, 02:32 PM

I agree with nickw on pretty much all of that. But what pisses me off even more about this situation is the ease with which the financial industry obtained bailout loans with very little specifics (and I was glad to see Jon Stewart pointing this out last night- they basically created securitized interests out of mortages, whereas the big 3 at least make tangible items!). I understand that without lending, our economy would grind to an immediate halt, but what would happen if we lost 2-3 million auto jobs? But I do agree that it's basically the industry's fault, with plenty of blame to be shared between executives and the UAW. The shit of it is Ford is doing great in overseas markets, and their cars are considered top quality and affordable. They should have exported those models back home years ago. Now they're paying for their foolishness, and schedenfraud (sp?) makes us want to see them burn, but I don;t think it's ultimately the right move.

rustbeltrevival

December 5th, 2008, 02:34 PM

My guess is that the project will be 50% powered by wind and solar, cutting down dramatically on energy costs for residents. But I do hope it's something crazier, like a pedestrian tunnel under the Maumee!

ddp

December 5th, 2008, 10:51 PM

Paddington

December 6th, 2008, 02:11 AM

nickw311

December 6th, 2008, 06:34 AM

You people need to get real. If the auto industry goes, it's all over for Toledo.

You cannot conflate the term "bankruptcy" with "the auto industry goes."

If the automakers are forced to file bankruptcy they will most likely reorganize into leaner more efficient companies.

Remember when Toys R Us filed for bankruptcy? Remember when K-Mart filed for bankruptcy? Remember when the airlines filed for bankruptcy? They didn't cease to exist, they merely changed their wasteful and inefficient practices and are of course still around.

tk29

December 6th, 2008, 07:38 AM

Genziko plans $5M+ relocation
from Georgia to Toledo:
http://toledobiz.com/major_stories/news02.html

rustbeltrevival

December 6th, 2008, 10:40 PM

Genziko plans $5M+ relocation
from Georgia to Toledo:
http://toledobiz.com/major_stories/news02.html

See, now that's the sort of thing that makes me smile!! We need more of this, and we all know it.

rustbeltrevival

December 6th, 2008, 10:45 PM

Pilliod Njaim

December 6th, 2008, 10:55 PM

What ever happened to campus architecture guidelines... even UT has a more cohesive and "academic" feel to their buildings. Oh well.

It's called modernism.

To me, every public school in Ohio is hideous except OU and Miami, with OU being the prettiest school in all of the Midwest due to it being the oldest, most intact, and having amazing topography.

4silverrings

December 7th, 2008, 05:50 PM

New arena design images for BGSU Falcons basketball...

http://bgsufalcons.cstv.com/genrel/120308aab.html

Love the front glass facade, but the rest is quite uninspiring. Perhaps landscaping and surrounding environments will help in the long run.

What ever happened to campus architecture guidelines... even UT has a more cohesive and "academic" feel to their buildings. Oh well.

You might have people turning off I-75 thinking it's a car dealership trying to get their Ford serviced. The middle picture makes it seem like a 1960's retro dealership, taking cues from 'the space age'.

With that said, I can't blame BG for the design. It's a fairly simple design, it's new, and it probably maximized what they had to work with. It's much needed.

Mudhen419

December 9th, 2008, 12:29 AM

The people who came up with recall carty are a waste of space.. The only support this will get is probly from Maggie Thurbers campaign contribution radio show that she does with the funding from Tom Noe.... Carty will get his fourth term.....

Im sure Carty and Bruce (of UAW) will be a big part in helping get the auto industry back on its feet...... Bruce Baumhower is a great man. I've known him since I was very small and his leadership is an important asset not to only the UAW of Toledo but our whole local economy.

And on the new BG Arena.....

I think it looks pretty cool.. Yes it does look like a car dealership but whatever the new venue is needed and different is always good......

Bonjourtoledo

December 9th, 2008, 02:29 PM

There is a construction crew at tearing down the BP (where the attendant was shot and killed) at Dorr and Secor right on the UT campus. Anyone know what is going on there?

That is a good question, I believe nothing at this point because UT wants to control all the land that is situated in the northwest quadrant of Dorr/Secor intersection.

Bonjourtoledo

December 9th, 2008, 02:31 PM

New arena design images for BGSU Falcons basketball...

http://bgsufalcons.cstv.com/genrel/120308aab.html

Love the front glass facade, but the rest is quite uninspiring. Perhaps landscaping and surrounding environments will help in the long run.

What ever happened to campus architecture guidelines... even UT has a more cohesive and "academic" feel to their buildings. Oh well.

The design of the Stroh Arena sure has a 1950-60s retro-feel IMHO, as long as the lighting is the key of the design then it will be respectable. I've seen too many retro-designed buildings fail miserably because of the dynamic lighting it lacks.

Bonjourtoledo

December 9th, 2008, 02:42 PM

You people need to get real. If the auto industry goes, it's all over for Toledo. This region's endured stagnation and slow decline since the 1970's. I'm not happy about that, but I can live with it as most folks still have a stable livelihood here. If GM and Chrysler go, there's going to be pure economic devastation in Toledo that school teachers, doctors, bankers, and even university professors with their cush jobs will feel the impact of.

Paddington, be nice and we are getting real but we have to look at both sides of the issue. The Jeep plant and supplier park is one of the newest auto manufacturing facility in the world, so if Chrysler does goes under another global auto industry will take an advantage of it. The attraction would be we have the skilled labor population and transportation infrastructure to support it.

Unfortunately, when the economy hit the skid ALL AUTO INDUSTRIES goes downward (including Toyota, Honda, VW, etc), if anyone is old enough to remember that this is almost the same situation with the auto companies, downward economy, and high gas prices took place in the late 70s and early 80s. Out of all the cities in U.S., Toledo does have the upper hand to improve greatly as the economy and US auto industries improves whereas other cities the auto factories are closed forever and there's no going back.

The Toledo metro region has to take this in stride and learn from this as we continue to diversify the economy with other industries such as alternative energy, solar, medical, transportation logistics, distribution, education, tourism, and many other industries to offshore the sole dependent of the auto sector.

Bonjourtoledo

December 9th, 2008, 02:43 PM

Genziko plans $5M+ relocation
from Georgia to Toledo:
http://toledobiz.com/major_stories/news02.html

Thanks for the great news tk29!

Bonjourtoledo

December 9th, 2008, 02:48 PM

Any thoughts on this? I'm sort of torn, along the mind-set of "I would probably sign the petition, but I think it's a ridiculous waste of time and resources at this point."

We could probably benefit more from the business community fielding a good candidate for mayor and convincing me that said person would do a good job running a city. If Jim Moody does want to run, for example, then he should start getting organized, getting financial backing, and getting his message out, not spending time and resources on a recall effort. On that note, I'm definitely supporting Keith Wilkowski, but I like the idea of Mike Bell entering the race, and I hope the D's and R's field some other good candidates as well. Just having a quality field of candidates in the primaries is a good thing.

Why bother signing the petition? If the group of businesses is so adamant to recall Mayor Finkbeiner, perhaps they should groom and fund a viable candidate for the Mayor's race in 2009. IMHO, this is nothing more than a retaliation against the mayor in regards to the firing of Port Authority's former chief Jim Hartung. It's a huge political mess and this is bound to happen since Hartung was dismissed because there are still a lot of upset people out there and they want to even the score.

All in all, I say it's a waste of time and resource considering the election is less than a year away. If they were truly are business people, they would simply endorse, groom, and fund a decent candidate as I mentioned earlier.

rustbeltrevival

December 9th, 2008, 02:48 PM

That is a good question, I believe nothing at this point because UT wants to control all the land that is situated in the northwest quadrant of Dorr/Secor intersection.

I'm pretty sure that UT purchased that property the day after the shooting, so they would be the ones demolishing it, but I can't substantiate that beyond hearsay!

Bonjourtoledo

December 9th, 2008, 02:51 PM

I'm pretty sure that UT purchased that property the day after the shooting, so they would be the ones demolishing it, but I can't substantiate that beyond hearsay!

UT has been wanting that piece of land for quite some time before the shooting incident and I believe the situation just speed up the process in making that purchase.

Bonjourtoledo

December 9th, 2008, 02:53 PM

The people who came up with recall carty are a waste of space.. The only support this will get is probly from Maggie Thurbers campaign contribution radio show that she does with the funding from Tom Noe.... Carty will get his fourth term.....

LOL @ your comment about Maggie/Tom Noe...you hit it right on the nail. I don't think Carty will be running for the fourth term and I would be quite surprised if he does considering his wife may just make him retire and enjoy life outside of politics.

Bonjourtoledo

December 9th, 2008, 02:59 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081209/BUSINESS03/812090369/-1/BUSINESS

Bonjourtoledo

December 9th, 2008, 03:00 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081209/BUSINESS03/812090362/-1/BUSINESS

Bonjourtoledo

December 9th, 2008, 03:05 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081209/NEWS16/812090360/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

December 9th, 2008, 03:14 PM

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/story?section=news/local&id=6543808

Bonjourtoledo

December 9th, 2008, 08:10 PM

UT has been wanting that piece of land for quite some time before the shooting incident and I believe the situation just speed up the process in making that purchase.

UT acquires key plot for development, will raze BP gas station
By Jon Strunk
Dec 9, 2008 Posted via UT Toledo website

The University of Toledo Foundation recently completed the purchase of land currently home to a BP gas station at the corner of Dorr Street and Secor Road on the southwest corner of Main Campus.

As part of that agreement, the land is undergoing environmental remediation as the gas pumps, underground tanks and gas lines are removed and the soil tested to ensure it meets the standards of the Environmental Protection Agency, according to Matt Schroeder, vice president for real estate and business development for the UT Foundation.

“We’ve been negotiating to buy the land since January of 2008 and finalized the purchase agreement in July,” Schroeder said.

He said the corner lot was one of the most strategic pieces of land UT has had its eye on since the merger because of the way it fits into the overall development strategy the University is formulating with neighborhood groups, the city, Lucas County and other stakeholders.

“This was the last piece of land north of Dorr Street we didn’t own,” he said.

According to Schroeder, once the environmental remediation is complete, UT will raze the convenience store and turn the lot into green space until it is ready for development.

Buildings on several other properties owned by the UT Foundation on the south side of Dorr Street also will be torn down and converted to green space in the next few months, he said.

Schroeder emphasized the lot was purchased with private funds and that no tuition, student fee or government money was used.

Bonjourtoledo

December 15th, 2008, 12:07 AM

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081214/BUSINESS05/812130260/-1/BUSINESS

Bonjourtoledo

December 15th, 2008, 12:10 AM

http://www.toledoonthemove.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=235105

Bonjourtoledo

December 15th, 2008, 12:12 AM

Let's hope the economy swings up soon.....

http://www.toledofreepress.com/2008/12/12/blade-to-lay-off-23-workers/

Bonjourtoledo

December 15th, 2008, 12:13 AM

http://www.toledofreepress.com/2008/12/12/fifth-third-to-open-new-banking-center-2/

Bonjourtoledo

December 15th, 2008, 12:16 AM

WOW..ProMedica Health System is doing really well.

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081214/NEWS32/812130262/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

December 15th, 2008, 12:20 AM

I love this neighborhood and I wish there was some redevelopments and infills at the intersections of Collingwood/Delaware and Monroe/Collingwood to cater the population of this area. There are plenty of disposable income to support the shops, cafes, gallerys, coffeehouses, commercial misc., and etc, and would definetly give it a real shot.

Not too long ago (perhaps couple of years ago), there were to be a huge development project taking place at the intersection of Monroe & Detroit with a brand new Kroger because of the access to I-75. Perhaps it is still on the table? We'll see.

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081213/NEWS16/812130365/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

December 15th, 2008, 12:23 AM

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081213/NEWS16/812130361/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

December 15th, 2008, 12:29 AM

Over the weekend, I drove by UT Main Campus on Bancroft Street and noticed a huge construction project is currently taking place at the Stranahan Hall which is expanding toward Bancroft.

Also the hotel project is moving along in between Bancroft/University Hills/Douglas Road. I'm curious which hotel it will be and what's the overall design of this project (i.e. # of floors, square footage, # of rooms, etc, etc).

Bonjourtoledo

December 15th, 2008, 12:34 AM

I noticed St. George Pub above Mano's is no longer around and it's being replaced by a new bar called Adams Street Attic (something like that), and a new gallery on Adams Street: http://www.thetruthtoledo.com/Gallery.html

Bonjourtoledo

December 15th, 2008, 02:59 PM

Bonjourtoledo

December 15th, 2008, 03:08 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081215/NEWS16/812150329/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

December 15th, 2008, 03:11 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081215/NEWS16/812150320/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

December 15th, 2008, 03:12 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081215/NEWS16/812159991/-1/NEWS

rustbeltrevival

December 15th, 2008, 05:59 PM

Take a look here at the most recently updated map of the neighborhoods in Toledo by the Toledo-Lucas Planning Commission staff this past summer: http://www.ci.toledo.oh.us/Portals/0/Planning%20Docs/Neighborhoods.pdf

If you could, tell me what # you currently live in and/or used to within the City of Toledo. If you never lived in Toledo, please state where you live.

I'll start: I currently live in #22; however, in the past ten years I used to live in #5 and #8.

I live in 14, and I grew up in 5. I love the Old West End, but I also love Old Orchard, so its hard to say where I'll end up. Love Downtown/UpTown as well, and saw that Shakin' Street Records on Adams now has signage, so it really might happen!! Adams is really coming along!

Bonjourtoledo

December 15th, 2008, 09:17 PM

Good News! http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081215/SPORTS09/812150292

Bonjourtoledo

December 15th, 2008, 09:20 PM

I live in 14, and I grew up in 5. I love the Old West End, but I also love Old Orchard, so its hard to say where I'll end up. Love Downtown/UpTown as well, and saw that Shakin' Street Records on Adams now has signage, so it really might happen!! Adams is really coming along!

I forgot about the Shakin' Street Records store, it's sure exciting along with the redevelopment of the old Studebaker Building and newly relocated art/plexiglas gallery next door to Manhattans.

Old Orchard is a great neighborhood, but not enough bathrooms per house which prevented us from buying one. LOL!

b1gh0u5e

December 15th, 2008, 11:17 PM

Currently live in 3. Have lived in 4 and 7.

Bonjourtoledo

December 16th, 2008, 04:05 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081216/BUSINESS03/812160275/-1/BUSINESS

Bonjourtoledo

December 16th, 2008, 04:08 PM

Very goods news especially during all the Big 3 Auto bailout drama: http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081216/BUSINESS02/812160337/-1/BUSINESS

Bonjourtoledo

December 16th, 2008, 04:10 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081216/BUSINESS03/812160241

Bonjourtoledo

December 17th, 2008, 05:00 PM

http://www.toledoonthemove.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=235105

The plant in Findlay has been sparred...very good news: http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/A/AR_COOPER_TIRE_OHOL-?SITE=OHFIN&SECTION=STATE&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT

Blade story: http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081217/BUSINESS07/812170270

Bonjourtoledo

December 17th, 2008, 10:13 PM

Developing new Swan Creek Riverwalk
Port Authority to vote on grant application
Posted on WSPD 1370AM Newsradio website 12-17-2008

The Toledo-Lucas County port authority will vote Thursday on a grant application to help the Swan Creek Riverwalk project move forward. If approved, the port authority would apply for a $3 million dollar Clean Ohio grant so the developer could tear down and clean up the old Plabell Rubber factory in the Warehouse District. The property is one of several that TetraTech plans to redevelop into the $300 million dollar Swan Creek Riverwalk project that would run from the confluence of the Maumee River near Owens Corning to I-75.

Bonjourtoledo

December 17th, 2008, 10:14 PM

New Science Center Will Stay on COSI Site
Levy Approved by Voters Keeps Current Venue
Posted on WSPD 1370AM Newsradio website 12-17-2008

The former COSI building will still be the home of the renamed Toledo Science Center-- operations director Lori Hauser says there's been no effort made at a possible move...since voters approved a levy to reopen the facility. But the science museum's board has agreed to conditions suggested by a levy review committee-- including free admission for Lucas County kids 12 and under on Saturdays.

Bonjourtoledo

December 18th, 2008, 01:35 PM

Huge milestone and it's a good thing its moving along....

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081218/NEWS16/812180282/-1/NEWS

nickw311

December 21st, 2008, 12:13 AM

Huge milestone and it's a good thing its moving along....

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081218/NEWS16/812180282/-1/NEWS

That's really exciting. Thankfully the people here are more enlightened than most of the people who posted on the Blade below the article.

Paddington

December 21st, 2008, 05:05 AM

We should all meet up at the strip club sometime. :cheers:

4silverrings

December 21st, 2008, 09:02 PM

That's really exciting. Thankfully the people here are more enlightened than most of the people who posted on the Blade below the article.

I hope the building developer takes a look at the outside of the building and the parking garage as well. Hopefully they can financing for the project as well. They say recessions are the best time to start businesses so you're ready when the boom comes. Same could be said about development projects. Toledo doesn't normally boom or bust, so we'll see.
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e180/millertime90s/Toledo/fsbuilding.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e180/millertime90s/Toledo/first_solar_tower.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e180/millertime90s/Toledo/xunlight_1.jpg

PS: Still new at this Photoshop stuff.

nickw311

December 22nd, 2008, 03:22 AM

nickw311

December 22nd, 2008, 03:23 AM

We should all meet up at the strip club sometime. :cheers:

Haha sounds fun, I could use a night on the town and a few beers.

4silverrings

December 22nd, 2008, 03:36 AM

From what I understand, this doesn't necessarily mean it will be developed, it merely means that the state has allocated money to help fund a cleanup, whether or not the owners choose to develop it is still in the air.

As far as redeveloping goes, that parking garage is terribly ugly, but I guess there really is no accounting for taste.

I do like your idea of making the non-window portion to a dark grey/black color.

Nick,

That's correct. Eyde had to commit $1 million for the state's $3 million toward the asbestos removal. Still, that's a commitment from Eyde that shows they want the building to be something other than nothing.

Actual development could cost $25-$30 million, which seems like a lot to commit when there is already a ton of vacant downtown real estate, especially with One Seagate being (relatively) new.

I actually don't find the Tower that appalling. Some do. There's not a whole lot to it, but what do you expect? It was the 1960's and it was an fiberglass company. I think it looks relatively modern even today. The parking garage on the other hand is an embarrassment and needs completely "resheathed" if the structural integrity is good. You could easily make the garage look better from the outside and turn the top floor into a "greenspace"/park/etc.

http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e180/millertime90s/Toledo/MainPhoto_Large.jpg

TampaMike

December 22nd, 2008, 04:34 AM

I like that garage, very detailed and not so plain. Although they gotta do something with that wall. Concrete in plain sight? Atleast paint it!

Paddington

December 22nd, 2008, 05:06 AM

Toledo - The Asbestos Capital of The World!

Sounds like something Finkbeiner would come up with, if he hasn't already. :dunno:

Mudhen419

December 22nd, 2008, 12:03 PM

whats up everyone happy holidays! im back from exile.... the ol cpu was down for a while. And no I wasnt the one who stabbed troy neff. See what I mean about road rage and people gettin ran off roads in perrysburg??

In a recent metro press there was an article about some of the road projects coming up next year. S.R. 20 from Perrysburg to 420 was the main topic with some business owners of the area commenting on what they thought about the project. Also some more intersection upgrades in Oregon at Coy and Starr and a little on the Wheeling widening project.

There was also something about a High Speed rail overpass in Northwood. This was the thing that caught my interest the most. It really didnt say anything in the article about it, it was supposedly in the planning stage?

Awesome news about the Fiberglass Tower!!! Im glad they arent tearin it down

4silverrings

December 24th, 2008, 05:30 PM

I like that garage, very detailed and not so plain. Although they gotta do something with that wall. Concrete in plain sight? Atleast paint it!

I'd say one thing Toledo is missing is inspired design. You know, maybe bend the rules of the acceptable. Take a chance. Someone mentioned that about the new arena; they had an opportunity to do something spectacular and picked a design that looked like everything else. Sure, it's a 'green' building, but it blends in.

Maybe that's what Toledo wants and likes with its Midwestern tastes. I'd like to see some actual architecture in Toledo. Someone take a chance. Maybe modern designs? I don't know.

PS the parking garage was from [i think] Arizona State. Campuses can take chances and have all that extra cash laying around. :)

Mudhen419

December 24th, 2008, 11:00 PM

Im happy with the design of the arena. I'd ratehr have it go along with the rest of downtown/fifth third field rather than shelling out way ore cash to make it look more modern.

tk29

December 24th, 2008, 11:54 PM

My only complaint of the arena is the number of seats. 8,500 just seems to small to me.

Mudhen419

December 25th, 2008, 12:09 AM

I'd rather have an arena that can be filled on a regular basis than a hulking 15,000 seat arena that never gets filled.....

Does anyone know if the 8,500 includes standing room only?? or is this number just the "seats"

Everyone said fifth third was to small as well and look at it now...

MY ONLY complaint is..... No middle of the arena hanging scoreboard?? from the drawings it looks like the scoreboard will be on one of the ends of the arena.... Im hoping they can put one at center ice..... not sure if the arena is high enough to have one with arena football being played in there..... Either way i know im gonna love the new place

Pilliod Njaim

December 25th, 2008, 08:54 PM

4silverrings

December 27th, 2008, 02:00 AM

Maybe that's what Toledo wants and likes with its Midwestern tastes. I'd like to see some actual architecture in Toledo. Someone take a chance. Maybe modern designs? I don't know.

Oh, there's plenty of real architecture in Toledo. Ever heard of the Old West End? ;) That's not only the most architecturally valuable neighborhood in Toledo, but also one of the best in the Midwest.

And downtown has a lot of good historic buildings ranging from beaux arts to art deco. Now getting to your point about the arena, I agree. It could have been much better. And what seems to be exterior brick actually looks brown (like in the original renderings). I thought they changed it to red? Red brick looks much better than brown brick, period.

I should have clarified. I meant modern architecture. I'm aware of all the historic architecture...what's left and what's left Toledo.

People complain about the National City Bank Building (I don't agree (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=186861&page=2)), The Fiberglass Tower, etc and I really think a shot of modern architecture could do Toledo good. Not just public or commercial real estate, but residential. Something more than boxes with 4 walls, double hung windows, and vinyl siding.

For instance, the condos on the river opposite of the grain silos near downtown. I thought A LOT more could have been done with those. I guess they are supposed to appeal to the older folks.

cjfjapan

December 27th, 2008, 08:40 AM

Bonjourtoledo

December 27th, 2008, 03:48 PM

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081227/BUSINESS03/812270361

Bonjourtoledo

December 27th, 2008, 03:49 PM

Posted on the US Conference of Mayors website: Toledo's "Shovel Ready" Infrastructure Projects

http://www.usmayors.org/mainstreeteconomicrecovery/stimulussurveyparticipantsdata.asp?City=Toledo&State=OH

Thanks cjfjapan! Nice to see some "green" projects on the list such as geothermal and solar.

Bonjourtoledo

December 27th, 2008, 03:50 PM

We should all meet up at the strip club sometime. :cheers:

Ummmm no....perhaps for coffee or a slurpee. :)

Bonjourtoledo

December 27th, 2008, 03:52 PM

That's really exciting. Thankfully the people here are more enlightened than most of the people who posted on the Blade below the article.

Ditto! The dialogues are far more constructive and productive here than any other blogs or message boards (especially the local ones) which are usually filled with endless personal diatribes.

Bonjourtoledo

December 27th, 2008, 03:58 PM

http://www.toledofreepress.com/2008/12/26/firms-seek-energy-funding/

Bonjourtoledo

December 27th, 2008, 04:00 PM

This story has been covered in earlier post but a different media outlet:

Willard & Kelsey Solar in Perrysburg receives $5.5 million loan, grant
Posted via Perrysburg Messenger Journal website 12-24-2008

Willard & Kelsey Solar Group, LLC, will receive a $5 million Research and Development Investment Fund Loan and a $500,000 Rapid Outreach Grant from the State of Ohio to assist with the purchase of new machinery and equipment.

The solar company, located on Progress Drive off State Route 25, in the former Delafoil building, will produce solar panels using newer, low-cost thin-film technology for worldwide distribution.

State Senator Mark Wagoner recently announced that the state Controlling Board approved the release of $5.5 million in state funding for the expansion of the Perrysburg solar company. According to the senator, the state support will enable the company to create 400 new full-time jobs.

“At a time when the loss of jobs is making headlines all around Ohio and the nation, Willard & Kelsey’s planned growth and the creation of hundreds of new positions is exactly the type of news our region of the state needs right now,” said Senator Wagoner. “I applaud the state for their efforts and I am hopeful that we will be able to find additional investment opportunities that grow jobs and strengthen our economy.”

Paddington

December 27th, 2008, 06:14 PM

Toledo's projects are more reasonable than what other cities are asking for.

Still, I'm skeptical of the basic premise of Obama's stimulus plan. These are all the projects that were planned, but didn't get built before because we didn't have enough money for them.

Now that we have even less money, we're going to build them to stimulate the economy? :nuts:

Bonjourtoledo

December 28th, 2008, 04:22 PM

Bonjourtoledo

December 28th, 2008, 04:24 PM

Interesting article especially with the developments: http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081228/NEWS16/812280312/-1/NEWS

Pilliod Njaim

December 29th, 2008, 12:18 AM

Toledo's projects are more reasonable than what other cities are asking for.

Toledo was very realistic in its requests. So was Cincinnati. Those two Ohio cities are most likely to have their wishes granted. Both asked for less money than most other cities with 300,000 people. Toledo is going for well-targeted infrastructure projects and lots of "green development", something Obama likes.

Now Akron's proposal for $900 million in funding? Just insane. They must have been high when they came up with their wish list. They asked for everything under the sun...

Also, note that Cleveland and Columbus have not requested anything yet.

Beware

December 29th, 2008, 01:07 AM

http://www.wisopinion.com/blogs/uploaded_images/trough-757908.jpg

(image from www.wisopinion.com)

The 2009 U.S. Stimulus package has become, just, ANOTHER shameless request for " pork " funding! Most cities, including Toledo, are just asking for more pet project (shopping centers, parking decks, museums. etc.) funding that has little or nothing at all to do with the criteria that President-Elect Obama outlined to stimulate our nation's economy. And, most of the contractors selected for these projects will use their existing workers to construct these projects IF the funds are approved.

In fairness to Toledo, My OWN(Illinois) hometown is just as shameless! I know that replacing roads and sewers aren't as sexy as building highrises, high-speed rail lines, and convention centers. But, the overwhelming number of U.S. cities and states requests for pet projects far exceeds the number of requests for crucial infrastructure (ex: roads, bridges, sewers, and schools). This is shameless!

4silverrings

December 29th, 2008, 01:30 AM

Oink, Oink

Obviously you haven't been to Toledo. I would guess you are flaming every board and merely changing the city name, but most of the requests listed do require serious attention.

Things such as energy efficiency, modernization, and maintenance are clearly 'pork barrel'.

Fortunately, this isn't communism. General improvement and maintenance is required.

Bonjourtoledo

December 29th, 2008, 03:01 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081229/NEWS16/812290303/-1/NEWS

Beware

December 30th, 2008, 11:39 AM

Oink, Oink

Obviously you haven't been to Toledo. I would guess you are flaming every board and merely changing the city name, but most of the requests listed do require serious attention.

:) You're correct, in that I haven't been to Toledo. But, You're wrong in assuming that I'm " flaming every board and merely changing the city name " . I'm not the least bit interested in doing such a thing!

Things such as energy efficiency, modernization, and maintenance are clearly 'pork barrel'.

:) THOSE are criteria, outlined in the 2009 Stimulus Plan, that are necessities vital for infrastructure upgrades.... NOT funding for " pet projects " without merit for public infrastructure.

Fortunately, this isn't communism. General improvement and maintenance is required.

:) And, just WHAT does communism have to do with the 2009 Stimulus Plan? I never mentioned it! Regardless, Your definition of " general improvement and maintenance " is broader than the 2009 Stimulus criteria. Whether or not you agree with it, it's becoming increasingly clear that most U.S. cities are seeking congressional " earmarks " , " pork " funding and attempting to justify it as infrastructure. Nevertheless, ALL will learn soon enough what's been approved since there's a short time in which state and local allocations must be approved, distributed, and spent. Meanwhile, " Good Luck with THAT " in Toledo!

Bonjourtoledo

December 30th, 2008, 02:29 PM

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081230/BUSINESS05/812300327/-1/BUSINESS

Bonjourtoledo

December 30th, 2008, 09:50 PM

Toledo was showcased on ABC News with Charlie Gibson from 12/17/2008 and it's a great short coverage: http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/JustOneThing/story?id=6475809&page=1

4silverrings

December 31st, 2008, 05:09 AM

Toledo was showcased on ABC News with Charlie Gibson from 12/17/2008 and it's a great short coverage: http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/JustOneThing/story?id=6475809&page=1

Solar Valley? I like it! :banana:

b1gh0u5e

December 31st, 2008, 08:02 AM

Very cool abc spot.

SUV111

December 31st, 2008, 03:46 PM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3076/3150592470_2e4fd21564_b.jpg
PHILIPPINES

Mudhen419

January 1st, 2009, 12:14 AM

Have a safe and happy new year everyone! The count down is on till hockey season in Toledo

Bonjourtoledo

January 1st, 2009, 03:56 PM

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090101/BUSINESS07/901010291

Brisbaner21

January 2nd, 2009, 02:28 AM

Happy New Year Toledo!

Bonjourtoledo

January 2nd, 2009, 06:14 PM

http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090102/NEWS16/901020291/-1/NEWS

Bonjourtoledo

January 2nd, 2009, 06:18 PM

As most of you know that this coming November there will be a general election for the Mayor's position of Toledo:

Toledo Democratic mayoral candidate named eight people to his economic development team
Friday, January 02, 2009 posted on WNWO NBC 24 website
Direct link: http://www.toledoonthemove.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=241687

TOLEDO, OH -- Keith Wilkowski, Toledo Democratic candidate for mayor, introduced the his Economic Recovery Council on Friday, which will advise him on strategies in his run for office.

Wilkowski, a former Lucas County Commissioner, made the announcement at a press conference with the newly named members.

"We need jobs here and we need jobs now," said Wilkowski. "With Washington debating an unprecedented economic recovery plan, we must take steps now to ensure that Toledo is not left behind."

The Council is comprised of community leaders in business, labor, and economic development. They include:

• Bill Brennan is the President of the Associated General Contractors of Northwest Ohio and former Board Chair of the Regional Growth Partnership, Northwest Ohio's leading private sector economic development agency with a mission to "build a high-tech, high-performance economy."

• Ken Dobson is the Director of the Clean and Green Building Resource Laboratory at the University of Toledo. In 2005, Dobson was awarded the Richard Preston Award and honorable mention recognition for his innovations in emerging applied tech-driven community economic development by the International Economic Development Council.

• Mary Gregory is the Executive Vice President of the Mechanical Contractors Association of Northwest Ohio, a trade association that serves as the voice of mechanical contractors in the region. Mechanical contractors will be key players in building and retrofitting our buildings for clean energy.

• Mike Haupricht is the Business Manager and Executive Secretary of the Northwestern Ohio Building and Construction Trades Council. The Council has led our area's response to the Obama administration's request for projects to fund in connection with the President-elect's proposed recovery program.

• Olivia Holden is the Executive Director of Assets Toledo, a non-profit organization serving small business owners with self-employment training and support. Those small businesses provide the majority of the private sector jobs in our economy and it was those small businesses that led the way in job creation during the
1990's.

• Hernan Vasquez is the President/CEO of Mandell-Vasquez, Inc. commercial HVAC contractors and a past Trustee of the University of Toledo. In 2008, the Northwest Ohio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce honored Vasquez as their "Businessperson of the Year."

• Mary Jo Waldock is Special Assistant to University of Toledo President Lloyd Jacobs for Economic Development. Waldock is responsible for helping the university mobilize and coordinate its diverse economic development initiatives reaching from the main and health science campuses to the city, region and globe.

• David Wallace, P.E. is past President of Benchmark Engineering and a former City of Toledo Assistant Chief Operating Officer. In 1997, Wallace led the city's effort to keep Jeep in Toledo.

Wilkowski has himself earned a reputation as a highly-effective and creative economic development leader. As counsel for the City of Toledo, Wilkowski led the effort to establish economic development agreements with suburban communities, generating millions of dollars in new city revenues. As Lucas County Commissioner, Wilkowski worked to bring Burlington Air Express (now BAX Global) to the Toledo International Airport, creating over 1000 good-paying jobs through policy innovation.

Wilkowski formally announced his run for Toledo mayor on December 18.