Since 1929, Shaker Square has served as a national model for walkable, transit-oriented retail. Nearly a century later, it’s setting the bar again—this time through an innovative blend of civic ownership, community visioning, and data-informed leasing strategy.
In 2022, local nonprofit Cleveland Neighborhood Progress (CNP) and Burten Bell Carr Development (BBC) acquired Shaker Square—with a $12 million low-interest loan from the City of Cleveland—to avert foreclosure and protect the fabric of this iconic neighborhood landmark. Their shared stewardship represents a rare dual-ownership model grounded in civic purpose—one that allows for long-term thinking, flexible leasing, and a focus on triple-bottom-line outcomes.
Community-Driven Vision
Following the acquisition, Streetsense was selected by CNP and BBC to lead the retail strategy component of a comprehensive revitalization effort, working alongside Agency Landscape + Planning and Cleveland-based urban design consultancy Seventh Hill. Together, we crafted a merchandising and urban design strategy to position Shaker Square as a thriving, mixed-use district grounded in market realities and community values.
Putting a Plan in Motion
Today, the Shaker Square team is using that strategy to actively recruit tenants. By offering a clear and compelling case that businesses can thrive here, Shaker Square is elevating the traditional leasing process—turning it into a strategy for long-term economic and community vitality.
Leasing Material
Retail real estate now hinges on more than just square footage—it demands a clear, compelling narrative that resonates with tenants and their customers. Whether through polished brochures or strategically framed vision documents, aligning narrative, brand, and market opportunity is essential to attracting tenants who are not only viable—but additive to place.
Final Thoughts
Shaker Square offers a compelling example of how legacy assets can be repositioned with intentionality, clarity, and impact. For civic leaders and place stewards navigating similar challenges, the lesson is clear: success in leasing starts with strategy—and strategy starts with story.
Image courtesy of Allen Penniman.
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