THE GLASS CITY IS ON THE RISE Toledo’s Revitalization Fuels Economic Growth and Community Excitement By Destination Toledo
Toledo has long been deemed The Glass City due to its long history of innovation in all aspects of the glass industry, but as it continues to build momentum with an influx of business development and transformative projects, not only is it holding true to its roots but it’s also becoming known as a city on the rise. The best place to witness the area’s excit- ing growth is Toledo’s revitalized downtown, where ongoing transformations continue
to impress residents and visitors alike. With a focus on beautification, walkability, bike-friendliness, and an engaged ambassa- dor program that prioritizes hospitality, clean- liness, and safety, downtown has become an increasingly popular destination to work, live, and play. The reimagined Glass City Center underwent a $70 million renovation in 2022, making it the region’s pre- mier multi-use facility for conventions, trade shows, sporting events, and weddings. The center features a modern aesthetic, an expansive 16,000-square-foot ballroom, 26 meeting rooms, and a 75,000-square-foot column-free exhibit hall, along with over $1.5 million in art installations throughout. “This renovation of the convention center and attached hotel has been a game-changer for our destination.” says Lance Woodworth, President and CEO of Destination Toledo. “The secret is out about Toledo! We’re attracting larger events and conference groups that may not have even considered the Glass City before,” The convention center’s attached hotel also underwent a complete overhaul, in the same year, resulting in a 310-room dual-branded Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Suites. These developments, combined with the city’s existing attractions like the Toledo Mud Hens’ Fifth Third Field and the Huntington Center arena, act as anchors in the downtown area, hosting hundreds of events each year. Convention visitors, concertgoers, and sports fans flock to nearby restaurants and bars year-round, while new residents inhabit condos and apartments buildings that were repurposed commercial and industrial spaces. Toledo has also seen a surge of investment across various industries, with approximately $1.5 billion worth of City of Toledo projects currently underway, including major developments in downtown, the Westgate area near the University of Toledo, and the emerging Toledo Trade Center industrial park. This robust business development has garnered national attention, with Site Selection Magazine ranking Toledo among the top 10 cities for new business investment for six consecutive years. Supported by over $31.3 million in state funding from the Ohio Innovation Hubs Program and $10.4 million in local investment, the new Northwest Ohio Glass Innovation Hub builds on Toledo’s legacy as the “Glass Capital of the World” and accelerates innovation and job growth in both the glass and solar industries. Global glass manufacturer Libbey Glass is also in the midst of a $30 million investment to expand and maintain its operations in Toledo.
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