Duck Island Creates Community in Small Spaces

If you’ve ever wandered around the area nestled between Ohio City and Tremont, you’ve likely encountered Duck Island, a friendly microneighborhood perched among dramatic dropoffs on all four sides, giving it the unmistakable feel of an urban island.

“It's this incredible little community of neighbors that really know each other,” says Carolyn Bentley, who owns four houses in Duck Island and sells real estate in the area as managing partner and realtor of The Bentley Group/ Ted & Co.

The area has also been the site of new construction, including modern townhomes featuring rooftop decks with city skyline views built by Berges Home Performance. 

Two recent additions to the neighborhood, Mary Neagoy and Ed Markey, moved to one of these properties in November 2024, downsizing to a 2,400-square-foot townhome after living in Shaker Heights for 25 years.

“A benefit of new construction is the efficiency,” Markey says. “This house has no leaky windows, no leaky faucets. Everything is very efficient, so it heats easily. It cools well.”

Neagoy notes that the area touts the same quintessential suburban neighborhood feel as Shaker Heights but on a smaller scale.

“We are literally steps away from our neighbors,” Neagoy says. “It’s a wonderful place to live and a really engaged neighborhood. And, from an access point of view, we see ease in walking to the West Side Market to get groceries, meeting friends for drinks or dinner or getting on a bike and exploring the Towpath or city streets.”

The neighborhood’s block club, which meets monthly, adds to the community feel as neighbors address issues such as public safety and upcoming events during meetings.

“It’s a great way to interact with neighbors, learn what's going on and see what kinds of events we might want to take part in,” Neagoy says.

Tremont West Events

The center of Tremont, just a short walk away from Duck Island, will host various events this summer.

“These events are about strengthening the fabric of our community,” says Julie Dahlhausen, executive director, Tremont West Development Corp. “By offering free, accessible programming, we create opportunities for residents and visitors alike to connect with local businesses, support artists and farmers and experience everything that makes Tremont unique.”

Walkabout Tremont Second Fridays, May through October | 5-9 p.m. | Professor Avenue: A monthly street festival along Tremont’s business district featuring local artist and maker vendors, street performers and more.

Tremont Tree Giveaway May 9 | 3 p.m. until sold out | 2406 Professor Ave.: Free native trees and shrubs distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tremont Farmers Market Tuesdays, May 19 - Sept. 29 | 4-7 p.m. | Lincoln Park (1200 Starkweather Ave.): Featuring 40-plus local farmers and makers. 

Taste of Tremont, July 19 | Noom-8 p.m. | Professor Avenue: This signature street festival brings more than 25,000 visitors to the neighborhood for a full day of food, drinks, live music and family-friendly activities.

Tremont Arts & Cultural Festival, Sept. 19 | Noon-7 p.m. | Lincoln Park (1200 Starkweather Ave.): A celebration of the neighborhood’s vibrant arts scene. instagram.com/tremont.cleveland | facebook.com/TremontWest/