ConnecToledo is a 501(c)3 organization committed to the redevelopment of Downtown Toledo. Funded by the city's leading institutional and corporate organizations, ConnecToledo is committed to facilitating public/private partnerships, promoting events and attractions, investing in planning and projects and advocating for businesses. We build the critical connections for developing vibrant neighborhoods and a strong central business district.
ConnecToledo’s role in downtown Toledo’s revitalization – a word from our President
Despite the world being put on hold over the past 12 months, momentum has continued on the revitalization of downtown Toledo. More than $650 million in catalytic development projects over the past 5 years have either been completed or are underway in and around downtown. These projects include ProMedica’s corporate headquarters relocation, renovation of the Renaissance Hotel, residents moving into the Tower on the Maumee, renovation of the Hilton dual-branded hotel (formerly Park Inn), redevelopment of Fort Industry Square, Glass City Riverwalk’s levy approval by Lucas County voters, reconstruction of Summit Street with utility and streetscape improvements, expansion and renovation of the Seagate Convention Center, development of Hensville, demolition of the former Seagate Hotel and reconstruction of Levis Square Park to name a few.
The momentum that we have experienced over the past 5 years is a result of a tremendous public/private partnership that has emerged through visionary corporate leadership and engagement combined with the financial and political support of the leadership at the City of Toledo and Lucas County. I cannot remember a time in the past 35 years of my involvement in this community where we have had better partnerships, leadership, or a shared sense of desire to make this a better place to live, work, and play. It truly is an exciting time to be part of the renaissance that is happening in our downtown.
ConnecToledo continues to do its part to push the momentum of downtown to the next level. We are currently working on expanding the Historic District across the entire Central Business District, which will allow for buildings within the district to apply for Federal and State historic tax credits. In addition, over the past year, we completed the acquisition and subsequent sale to Metroparks Toledo of a property that was owned by Norfolk-Southern RR and deemed to be critical to the vision and development of the Glass City Riverwalk, a $200 million development that will bring our riverfront back to life for downtown Toledo. We continue to engage with the development community to support further revitalization and investment, support events and are constantly working to improve the cleanliness, safety, walkability and placemaking of downtown Toledo.
Our future is bright.
Paul Toth, President
