Neighborhood Revitalization & PNC

Posted on 01/08/19 in PNC Circle Connects

Written by Michael Taylor, SVP, West Territory Executive of Community Development Banking at PNC

When I want to take a walk, I like to walk inside vs outside. By that I mean I like to walk inside the Cleveland city limits to visit one of its many eclectic neighborhoods. I’m always shocked by how much I discover.

The Detroit Shoreway and Tremont neighborhoods have been revitalized as hubs for art galleries, shops, dining and entertainment. On the east side, University Circle buzzes with activity in and around the cultural destinations, entertainment spots and higher learning institutions. It’s truly remarkable how much Cleveland has to offer.

It didn’t happen by accident. It took years of strategic planning by many organizations to breathe new life into these areas. PNC is proud to be a part of the solution by providing tax credit investments, including New Markets Tax Credits, loans and philanthropic support to help these neighborhoods and institutions develop new buildings and programs to connect residents to resources to help them thrive. For example, PNC has linked local residents to workforce development, job opportunities and cultural activities. In return, we’ve had the joy of watching our city return to its former glory and chart new paths.

And the work isn’t done. PNC is partnering and collaborating with a variety of organizations to restore historic neighborhoods such as Glenville and Fairfax, which were once integral to the city’s success. In Glenville, an historic building has been repurposed as a hub for local and visiting artists, and Fairfax residents are taking advantage of free programs in areas such as graphic design, healthy cooking and resume writing. The reason PNC is involved is simple. A vibrant urban core equals a stronger region overall, which is good for business, job opportunities, home values and quality of life.

So next time you’re ready to get out and explore, visit a Cleveland neighborhood that you haven’t been to in a while. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how much you’ve been missing.