History Glenville’s Heritage Lane neighborhood is a microcosm of Cleveland’s neighborhood history; flourishing followed by decline followed by urban revitalization with resident determination. A snapshot of change, re-birth and a story of hope: a neighborhood can
thrive again with a strong core of residents, institutions, businesses and community organizations.
Built in 1910, the side-by-side, two-and-a-half story wooden duplex structures reflect the prevalent American Foursquare style of architecture. Originally known as a popular destination for middle class and immigrant families looking for industrial work in the early 20th century, Heritage Lane Historic Homes was built during a period of rapid growth in Cleveland.
In the 1960s, the neighborhood gained renown recognition during the Civil Rights Movement when Dr. Martin Luther King addressed a crowd of 10,000 at the neighborhood’s Cory Methodist Church. Later, Malcolm X delivered his famous “The Ballot or the Bullet” speech at the same podium.
Decades later, the neighborhoood is on its way back up. Nearly 80 units of new and rehabilitated housing, new commercial and institutional space, and revitalized streetscapes is being created on East 105th between the historic Glenville and University Circle neighborhoods. This will produce a beautiful, walkable neighborhood overlooking Rockefeller Park, adjacent to Case Western Reserve University and the rest of University Circle. Parks, jobs, education and the region’s premier cultural institutions—all within walking distance!
As Heritage Lane becomes closer to reality, continued support is necessary to
bring the completed project to fruition. Only with continued contributions, can Famicos continue the work of revitalization, development and services to residents, and turn tattered landscapes into thriving communities. Any size donation can make a difference in making the completion of the Heritage Lane neighborhood project a reality.
Heritage Lane Phase 1
Heritage Lane Historic Homes is the rehabilitation and sale of 13 duplex homes lining East 105th Street between Wade Park and Ashbury Avenues. Famicos is restoring their historic beauty while converting them into single-family residences, resulting in beautiful, large homes with historic charm and modern amenities. Five homes are sold, two homes are completed and available, and six homes remain to be rehabilitated.
Heritage Lane Townhouses consists of 13 new, modern townhouses directly across the street from the Heritage Lane Historic Homes. Famicos Foundations has completed the first six units and they are selling quickly. Exterior renovations on the remaining units is underway.
Heritage Lane Future Phases
Famicos Foundation is in the process of acquiring and demolishing abandoned and dilapidated structures north of the Historic Homes and Townhomes. The change is exciting: dangerous, empty buildings are being removed, the street is becoming safer and new development is on its way! Stay tuned for more updates!
South of the Historic Homes and Townhomes, the Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) campus expansion is proceeding. This project will bring 1000 jobs to Cleveland and high quality medical care for our region’s veterans.