Outside the theaters of Playhouse Square Center, there’s a buzz in the air as people gather not only to attend performances, but to dine, shop and transact business. Progressive economic development initiatives are even bringing new housing to the Theater District.
In Playhouse Square Foundation’s expansive vision, the arts and entertainment district throbs with life 24-hours a day, year-round. The Foundation intends to play a leading role as a developer of its own holdings and as a catalyst for independent projects that add to the vibrancy of the area.
Among the improvements, both completed and planned, which are transforming a once-dormant neighborhood into a thriving urban district are:
Star Plaza, the unofficial “ninth stage” which accommodates outdoor concerts and special events.
Giant video boards/high-tech news ticker on the facades of the Wyndham Hotel and Hanna Building.
One Playhouse Square Bldg., where an innovative partnership with WVIZ/PBS and WCPN 90.3 ideastream created the $42 million Idea Center. This broadcast and arts education facility includes high-tech studios, classrooms, intimate performing spaces and a dance studio.
14th Street Theater: remodeled area created within the Hanna Building
New housing investment has added 400 market-rate rental units to the district. Additional housing development, including for-sale units, is being explored by PSF
Wyndham Cleveland Hotel – developed by PSF
Acquired and controls one block of the Theater District to complement evening theater activity with daytime office activity.
These projects represent a remarkable turnaround. They validate the efforts of those who, for the past three decades, have pinned their hopes on the opportunity the theaters present to lure people and investment capital back downtown. Those hopes are being fulfilled.
