Council Members Joe Cimperman, Ward 13, and Shari Cloud, Ward 8, are joining together to urge Judge Richard McMonagle of the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas to reverse his decision to place a temporary restraining order on the demolition of the old Howard Johnson building off of E. 55th Street at the Shoreway.  The temporary restraining order was issued at the request of property owners Lakeview 2006  LLC.

The building has been vacant for approximately 30 years, during which time the property has become blighted and a haven for crime.

“People have long driven past this building and wondered if anything was ever going to happen with it,” said Councilman Cimperman.  “We finally have a chance to remove this blemish from our skyline and bring positive growth.  There is no reason to halt progress.”

When the Cuyahoga County Port Authority expressed interested in redeveloping the property and surrounding area in order to relocate their operation, the proposal was overwhelmingly supported by the community.  To hold up demolition of this property now, impedes progress and stalls the promise of job creation and economic stimulus that the relocation of the Port Authority holds.

“Holding up the Port relocation impedes job creation and growth for our community and its residents,” said Councilwoman Cloud.  “The Howard Johnson building has been an eyesore in our community for years and years and it’s time to move this project forward.”