Economic Development

Welcome to Brook Park, a vibrant city where business growth and development are at the forefront of our work. Whether you are a real estate broker, an entrepreneur, an experienced business owner, or someone who is just starting out, our Economic Development team will be with you every step of the way.

Who's Involved in Brook Park's Economic Development?

Brook Park's Economic Development team regularly brings a variety of partners to the table to collaborate on ways to grow our business community. This includes real estate brokers, real estate agents, investors, public and private funding institutions, as well as business leaders.

What Role Does Economic Development Play?

We focus on Business Retention, Expansion, and Attraction (BREA) in order to make sure the Brook Park business community remains vibrant. We believe in creating an ecosystem where existing businesses thrive, new businesses find a conducive environment, and potential businesses see Brook Park as an attractive destination.

Services & Support Offered

Brook Park is committed to offering a complete range of services to aid in the business establishment and growth:
Project Management: Communication remains a pivotal part of our services. Businesses can expect active support throughout their journey, from meetings with our Building and Engineering Departments to reviewing building and zoning guidelines, to successful interactions with the Planning Commission, the Board of Zoning Appeals as well as Brook Park City Council.

  • Financial Incentives: We regularly meet with business leaders to discuss potential financial incentives to ensure projects can assemble the needed capital stack.
  • Property Tax Abatement: The Brook Park Community Reinvestment Area (CRA #15) was established by Resolution No. 20-94, adopted on June 8, 1994. The purpose of the CRA is to promote investment within the City of Brook Park and encourage the remodeling and construction of certain improvements to real estate. Qualifying projects are eligible to have 100% of the real property taxes otherwise due on the value of improvements abated for specific periods of time.
  • Grant Writing: We actively work to obtain grants, which can then be redirected to other vital community projects, such as infrastructure development

Communication remains a pivotal part of our services. Businesses can expect active support throughout their journey, from meetings with planning commissions to interactions with the City Council.

Additional Highlights:

  • Property Listings: We aim to list available parcels on our website to assist in seamless location selection.
  • Time-Saving Options: We provide insights into zoning options to fast-track the establishment process.
  • Special Programs & Collaborations: Our recent collaboration with the state of Ohio and the local Police and Fire Departments led to a grant for retention bonuses for first responders.
  • Transportation and Zoning: We are open to expanding rail transport if businesses require, emphasizing the importance of zoning in this regard.
  • Development Focus: The city sees the potential in constructing new residential spaces like apartment complexes to attract businesses.
  • Coordination with Educational Institutions: With a vision to bridge the skill gap, we collaborate with local colleges for workforce training.
  • Process & Timeline: We act as your business concierge, streamlining processes and offering solutions to challenges, creating a roadmap for potential investors and businesses.

Building Relationships:

Businesses can expect regular updates and discussions regarding potential growth opportunities. The emphasis is on open communication, ensuring businesses never feel out of the loop.

Cost & Time Efficiency:

With free consultation services, businesses can bypass the costs of external consultants. Additionally, our commitment to time-efficiency ensures businesses' concerns are addressed promptly.

Equality & Fair Negotiations:

All businesses, irrespective of their tenure in Brook Park, receive equal treatment. We believe in mutually beneficial growth, ensuring that our negotiations are fair and advantageous for both parties.

Diverse Business Landscape:

Brook Park is home to every type and size of business and organizations. We are home to Fortune 50 companies like the Ford Motor Company, World Class research at The NASA Glenn Research Center, as well as international manufacturing companies like Waelzholz North America, LLC, to family businesses like Malley’s Chocolates.

Public Transportation:

The City of Brook Park is located just 14 minutes from downtown Cleveland and features easy access to I-71 and I-480. The City is also serviced by the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) and has a Rapid Transit Station on Brookpark Road.

Roundabouts & Urban Development:

Our city is evolving, with infrastructural additions like roundabouts. While mainly found on the east side, they are efficient traffic solutions that many find sensible once accustomed to.

Building in Brook Park:

Our vision is clear – to be the first touchpoint for those seeking investment opportunities in Brook Park. From codes and regulations to creating property value and generating income tax, building in Brook Park is seen as more than just construction; it's a pillar of economic development.

Why Brook Park?

Proximity to institutions like NASA Glenn, closeness to Cleveland, rail lines, highways, the airport, and availability of both public and private undeveloped land makes Brook Park an irresistible choice for business and development.

Join us in this journey of growth and prosperity, and let's build a brighter future for Brook Park together!

6161 Engle Road
Brook Park, Ohio 44142

Commissioner Paul F. Marnecheck

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Telephone: (216) 433-7032

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