Cleveland’s Land Reutilization (Land Bank) Program

[Tess L.]

Hello All! Wondering if anyone could share their experience with the City of Cleveland’s Land Reutilization Program. Looking at the Scheme, it looks as though if a land bank-owned vacant lot is next to my property (both narrow), then I can apply to have it joined as a side lot (see city website).

It sounds like a great scheme, but often these things are not great in practice. I'd like to hear if the process is as straightforward as it seems, or if such applications end up costing time, money and effort for little result. In particular, whether there are any restrictions on the proeprty being owned by a USA citizen, or by an owner-occupant (I will be neither).

Thank you!

[Account Closed]

@bob prisco with all do respect, YOU clearly don't know Cleveland. I live in one of the hottest neighborhoods in Cleveland and the lot next door is a community garden owned by the city. We have inquired about purchasing it and the Councilman stated they are keeping it a green space. They also keep getting offers from developers, but are turning those offers down... do your research before acting like a jerk.

Cleveland is also a used as a case study for urban community gardens that other cities are trying to replicate.

To answer the original question of the thread... I own a duplex on the east side and contacted the land bank about purchasing the empty lot next door. They stated that if its owner occupied, you can purchase through the side-lot program for $200. If it's an investment property it'll cost about $600 for the lot. I hope this helps!