Commercial and Economic Development
Do recent closings and downsizings in Shaker Square spell trouble?
No! Restaurants in the Square are doing extremely well, as are the retail businesses. The loss of Wild Oats was a confirmation that it was the wrong kind of business for this area. Ohio Signatures had been a thriving business for 30 years, and its owners were ready to retire. The Gap has closed stores nationwide as they retrench and re-establish their market. These kinds of changes are typical, particularly in the first few years of a center's new life.
What is happening at Van Aken/Warrensville, Chagrin west of Lee and Lee south of Chagrin?
The proposals made in the Strategic Investment Plan are still valid, however the City has been focusing its scarce resources at Shaker Towne Centre. We still plan to pursue ideas presented in the Plan, such as straightening Farnsleigh Road, when funds become available. In the meantime, changes to the Van Aken/Warrensville area have begun with the development of Sussex Courts condominiums, the narrowing of Chagrin and the addition of streetscaping elements.
Housing
How can the lower priced condominiums be promoted?
We’re going to work on this with them through the Shaker Works group.
New condominiums under construction are out of financial range for many down-sizing seniors. Will there be other options that are more affordable?
Many affordable condominiums already exist in our community, for instance, in buildings along Van Aken Boulevard. Less expensive loft-style condominiums are planned for the redevelopment of Shaker Towne Centre. The lofts condos at STC will start at $175,000. We hope that these condos will provide a wider choice for our residents.
Ice and Snow Removal
What is the City’s policy on snow removal from the sidewalks?
The City clears streets of ice and snow as quickly and efficiently as conditions permit. Residents are responsible for clearing driveways and sidewalks. The City will plow all sidewalks when a snowfall is 6” and at the discretion of the Administration when circumstances warrant (i.e., consistent snowfall which accumulates to 6” or more after several different snow occurrences).
City sidewalk plowing is conducted in the following order:
- Parts of neighborhoods leading to the schools
- Main arteries
- Side streets
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