Propelled by a strategic vision and backed by a comprehensive master plan, Middleburg Heights is on the move with development across the community. The city is thriving with business investment and expansion — a testament to its commitment to adapting and staying flexible to accommodate economic opportunities.
“There is renewed energy in the city as businesses continue to make significant investments in Middleburg Heights as a desired location to grow, expand and thrive,” says Director of Economic Development Charles Bichara.
He points to the city’s central location, transportation access, progressive zoning policies and responsive administration as a few reasons why businesses are putting a stake in the community.
“We are also close to suppliers, the airport and business hubs throughout the region,” Bichara adds.
Middleburg Heights is home to more than 1,200 businesses in the office, industrial, retail and specialty sectors. That includes a medical corridor with 1.6 million square feet of offices and services. Northeast Ohio’s major health systems all have a home in the city. And more than 21,000 people work in Middleburg Heights each day. “We are truly a business-oriented community,” Bichara says.
After completing the first comprehensive master plan for Middleburg Heights in 50 years, including zoning code and map updates along with the Southland redevelopment initiative, Middleburg Heights is strategically prepared for continued growth.
Community support has been integral to the development momentum. The Southland Planning Study and development plan received “tremendous acceptance and feedback,” Bichara says. The study was rolled out to residents and the business community to present a reimagined multi-use district that will transform the area into a welcoming corridor for retail, recreation, housing and a range of business opportunities.
“It encourages a community feel to draw people to Southland and assures its continued viability for the next 50 years and beyond,” Bichara says.
The Southland District Vision repositions the Smith Road corridor and will incorporate on-street parking and a multi-purpose pathway that connects to the Big Creek trail network, along with support for new development. Additionally, the plan includes sustainable infrastructure, such as improved methods for treating stormwater.
“The vision immediately spurred redevelopment projects throughout the Southland district that are currently in progress and being planned,” Bichara says.
The business activity will unleash more residential development, as well. “It introduces more of a pedestrian friendly feel where people can use multipurpose trails — and places for people to gather,” Bichara adds.
Essentially, the plans triggered a development domino effect.
“You can drive down Pearl Road and see the Pearl Plaza under construction with new buildings, and next to that, the Pearl Crossings project is underway,” he says.
Already, some new construction has been completed, groundbreakings are underway, new businesses are opening locations in Middleburg Heights, and some existing businesses are expanding their footprints. This translates to even more robust amenities in Middleburg Heights — more jobs and more value for those who live, work and play in the city.
Bichara says, “Our theory for economic development has always been to facilitate and foster relationships with businesses and property owners to encourage the continued economic viability of the entire city. Never before in my tenure has there been more activity, and never before has there been a greater spirit of everyone moving forward together with the same unified vision.”
