For much of the 20th century, Scranton Peninsula was a hub of manufacturing and shipping activity. Its proximity to the river and rail lines made it a strategic location for steel mills, warehouses, and freight operations. However, as Cleveland’s industrial base declined in the latter half of the century, the peninsula fell into disuse. What remained was a landscape of derelict buildings, contaminated soil, and a riverfront inaccessible primarily to the public.
This post-industrial void, however, presented a rare opportunity: a centrally located, underutilized tract of land with the potential to reconnect the city to its waterfront and redefine its urban identity.
The Master Plan: Vision and Collaboration
Key features of the plan include:
-
A network of walkable streets and short building blocks designed to foster community interaction
-
The creation of “slipways” landscaped pedestrian corridors that extend river views deep into the site
-
A mix of residential units, retail spaces, and public amenities
-
Integration with the Towpath Trail and Canal Basin Park to enhance connectivity and recreational access
This approach reflects a broader shift in urban planning, one that values sustainability, inclusivity, and placemaking over car-centric development.
The Peninsula Project: A Residential Anchor
At the heart of the redevelopment is “The Peninsula,” a residential project by the NRP Group. Originally paused during the pandemic, the project has since been revived with updated plans that include 330 apartments, 15 townhomes, and a small retail space constructed from a repurposed shipping container. The development also features nearly 400 parking spaces and landscaping designed to complement adjacent projects such as Silverhills at Thunderbird.
The architectural design, led by BKV Group, emphasizes contextual sensitivity and community integration. The buildings are arranged around a central courtyard, and the site plan encourages pedestrian flow while preserving sightlines to the river and downtown skyline.
Economic and Cultural Catalysts
The transformation of Scranton Peninsula is not limited to housing. It is also becoming a cultural and economic destination. Great Lakes Brewing Company is constructing a new production facility and riverfront brewpub, while BrewDog’s Cleveland Outpost has already established itself as a popular gathering spot. These developments are helping to activate the waterfront and attract both residents and visitors to the area.
Moreover, the presence of these anchor institutions signals confidence in the peninsula’s long-term viability and appeal. They also contribute to a broader ecosystem of local businesses, artisans, and service providers who stand to benefit from increased foot traffic and investment.
Environmental Restoration and Public Access
One of the most compelling aspects of the Scranton Peninsula redevelopment is its commitment to environmental restoration and public access. The site includes fish habitat breeding areas, a river observation deck, and public fishing access points. These features are managed in part by Cleveland Metroparks and are designed to enhance biodiversity while providing residents with meaningful connections to nature.
The integration of green infrastructure, such as permeable pavements, native plantings, and stormwater management systems, further underscores the project’s sustainability goals. These interventions not only mitigate environmental impact but also create a more resilient and livable urban environment.
A Model for Urban Resilience
Scranton Peninsula is more than a redevelopment project; it is a case study in urban resilience. It demonstrates how cities can reclaim neglected industrial sites and transform them into thriving, inclusive communities. By prioritizing design excellence, environmental stewardship, and civic engagement, Cleveland is setting a precedent for how post-industrial cities can reinvent themselves for the 21st century.
Power Point Summary: Key Takeaways
-
Location: 25-acre site along the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland’s Flats district
-
Lead Developers: Thunderbird Development Team, Perkins & Will, NRP Group
-
Core Features: Mixed-use development, pedestrian-first design, riverfront access
-
Anchor Projects: The Peninsula (330 apartments, 15 townhomes), Great Lakes Brewing Co., BrewDog Outpost
-
Environmental Focus: Fish habitats, green infrastructure, public trails and observation decks
-
Urban Impact: Reconnecting Cleveland to its riverfront, fostering economic growth, and modeling sustainable redevelopment
