Geographic Spotlight: Ohio, USA
Steadfast City Economic & Community Partners has long been committed to fostering economic resilience and meaningful community growth. Our expansion into Ohio was a natural evolution, inspired by the region's forward-thinking approach to development and deep-rooted commitment to community engagement. From historic urban cores to small-town revitalization projects, Ohio is shaping a future that honors its past while embracing sustainable, inclusive growth, and Steadfast City is proud to be part of that journey. Follow a few of our Ohio projects below and connect with us as you look to the Great Lakes region for your economic, community or real estate development projects.
Youngstown, Ohio
During the inaugural cycle of the Opportunity Appalachia Program, Steadfast City partnered with the City of Youngstown, OH to explore the redevelopment potential of a major 300,000-square-foot vacant downtown property. Our team conducted a comprehensive market analysis, led stakeholder meetings, analyzed investment strategies, and assessed financial structuring to support the revitalization of the historic Strouss Department Store.
With engagement from City leadership, business owners, and over 80 community stakeholders, we developed a strategic framework to align the redevelopment with downtown market demands and community needs. As we continue working with the City, this $60M+ preservation and construction project is set to transform the site into a vibrant mixed-use space, enhancing downtown’s economic momentum and ensuring the building serves its highest and best use.
Gallipolis, Ohio
In 2023, Steadfast City provided technical assistance through the Opportunity Appalachia Program to support the redevelopment of three buildings in downtown Gallipolis, Ohio. Our team conducted a Market Analysis, Existing Conditions Report, and a Developer Prospectus—detailing the city’s economic landscape, projected industry growth, employment trends, and incentives available for redevelopment.
To bring the vision to life, we partnered with an architecture firm to create renderings of a boutique hotel concept and developed a financial model and feasibility analysis for the project. After issuing an RFP for developers, we secured a proposal from a prominent local developer eager to invest in downtown Gallipolis. This partnership is now moving forward with plans to breathe new life into these historic spaces and fuel local economic prosperity.
Euclid & Cleveland, Ohio
Beyond real estate and financial strategies, Steadfast City embraces the cultural and historical fabric of the communities we serve. In collaboration with the Cities of Euclid and Cleveland, we took on a project that sought to unlock the potential of nearly three acres of previously vacant land along a key municipal boundary.
Our team conducted an extensive market analysis and site plan while deeply engaging with local stakeholders and residents. To ensure the project honored community heritage, we hosted hands-on memory-building exercises and interactive mapping activities, allowing residents to shape the redevelopment vision with their own aspirations. By bridging past narratives with future possibilities, the project laid the groundwork for a culturally rich, sustainable transformation.
Looking Ahead
Steadfast City’s expansion into Ohio underscores our commitment to organic, community-led development that drives lasting impact. By embracing the strengths and potential of Ohio’s historic cities and emerging markets, we continue to foster partnerships that fuel economic innovation and strengthen local resilience.
From large-scale urban redevelopment to neighborhood revitalization, we believe in collaboration, strategic thinking, and forward movement. Ohio's energy and ingenuity inspire us, and we look forward to continuing our work—building places where communities thrive.
