More than a century after it first opened its doors on November 2, 1912, Cleveland’s iconic West Side Market is breaking new ground — literally and figuratively — as it embarks on the largest renovation in its storied history.

On Monday, elected officials, community leaders and longtime vendors gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off Phase One of the Market’s $68 million transformation.

“This is not just Cleveland’s market, not just the region’s market, this is the state’s market," said Mayor Justin M. Bibb.

The event signals not just the start of long-awaited construction, but a renewed commitment to preserving a Cleveland treasure, while renovating and updating it for new generations.

“Here’s to the next century ahead, to keep this what it always should be, the people’s market on all sides of town, the people’s market in the region, our global treasure,”
 said Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne.

Cleveland’s oldest continuously operating municipally owned market, and one of the oldest in the country, has been a cornerstone of Ohio City since it replaced the original Pearl Street Market in 1912. Designed by famed architects W. Dominick Benes and Benjamin Hubbell, the grand 241-by-124-foot building is renowned for its soaring tile ceiling and a 137-foot clock tower. The iconic exterior will not change in the renovation.

Today, the market draws more than 800,000 visitors a year, a third of them from outside Greater Cleveland. But the decades haven’t been kind to its infrastructure. Vendors and marketgoers alike have faced challenges due to outdated systems, power outages and neglected maintenance. The lack of seating and event space has also contributed to the market’s decline, and increasing vendor vacancies.

That’s about to change.

The first phase of the transformation, estimated at $53 million, will focus on major upgrades to the East Arcade, including:

• Modern HVAC and cooler storage
• Renovated space for produce vendors
• Expanded food prep and storage infrastructure
• A new commercial kitchen

This phase alone is expected to retain 250 jobs, create 144 new ones, and support over 425 construction jobs.

Renderings released by the Cleveland Public Market Corporation showcase an updated food hall, produce market and outdoor seating area.

Backed by city, private and philanthropic partners, including $28M from Cleveland Development Advisors, the real estate affiliate of Greater Cleveland Partnership—this historic upgrade will transform the Cleveland landmark into a modern hub for food lovers, families and tourists, while retaining its iconic local flavor.