City of Toledo

Collaboration is one of the most effective tools for solving environmental challenges. The City of Toledo's Division of Environmental Services recently partnered with the Junction Coalition, the Environmentalist Professionals Network, and Ohio State University's College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences to bring together environmental professionals, educators, and community leaders for a networking and educational event focused on local sustainability solutions. The event highlighted innovative approaches to addressing environmental issues while strengthening partnerships across sectors. Attendees also toured Urban Wholistic's urban farm at Tatum Park, where community-based agriculture is improving access to fresh food, supporting environmental stewardship, and demonstrating the impact of neighborhood-led solutions. Thank you to everyone who continues to invest their expertise, research, and passion into building a more sustainable Toledo!

The City of Toledo and Gerken Paving has received the 2025 Quality Award for Asphalt Paving from Flexible Pavements of Ohio for the resurfacing of Byrne Road from Detroit Avenue to Heatherdowns Boulevard. The project was recognized for high quality workmanship, smooth riding quality, and strong collaboration with contractor Gerken Paving, Inc. A key feature of the work included ADA compliant crosswalks designed to improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians. Benjamin Gates, construction monitor, said the recognition reflects a consistent focus on quality in the field. “I think it’s wonderful. Unexpected. I treat it like I do all the streets, you know, care and quality and just the focus of good work,” Gates said. Gates also emphasized a hands-on approach to field work and continuous improvement. “I feel like the opportunity for improvement sort of starts and stops with me and the opportunity to speak up for things that I see,” Gates said. “I’ve always had an eye for design and quality, and a lot of things need field fit and slight adjustments to what is actually occurring in the real world.” Dusty May, City of Toledo Construction Inspection and Testing Specialist, said the recognition reflects the teamwork behind the project and the quality delivered in the field. “It speaks to the work that our crews and contractors are putting in every day and the pride they take in doing it right,” May said. This is the first time in several years the City of Toledo has received the award, making the 2025 recognition a meaningful return for the work being done in the field.

The redevelopment of Westgate Village North is helping redefine Toledo as a destination for investment, shopping, and new opportunities. Securing the first Trader Joe's in Northwest Ohio is a testament to the strength of our local economy and the demand that exists in our region. This transformative project will breathe new life into the former Sears site and further establish West Toledo as a premier retail destination. In addition to Trader Joe's, the development will welcome Dick’s House of Sport, Golf Galaxy, Nordstrom Rack, Sierra, Mission BBQ, and Smoothie King, bringing new shopping and dining options, creating jobs, and generating economic activity that benefits our entire city. We're excited to see this long-vacant property transformed into a vibrant destination that will serve residents, attract visitors, and continue Toledo's momentum as a place where businesses want to invest and grow.

This quarter’s update highlights the initiatives and redevelopment stories helping shape continued growth, supporting business expansion, job creation, and long-term economic strength across Toledo. Click below to read the latest in Jobs and Economic Development newsletter. ⬇️

🏡 Another successful Homeownership Fair is in the books! Expanding access to homeownership is a key part of the City of Toledo’s neighborhood revitalization efforts. This event supports residents with the education, resources, and connections needed to achieve long-term housing stability and build generational wealth through homeownership. One of the most exciting moments of the day was awarding $10,000 in down payment assistance to Tawanna Jefferson, who has been working toward homeownership with support from our community partners. 📸 The last four photos capture the emotional moment she won! Thank you to all of the organizations, educators, and housing professionals who helped make this event possible. Together, we are creating pathways to homeownership and investing in the long-term success of Toledo neighborhoods.

Download Our FREE Landlord Resource Guide! Whether you're new to property management or a seasoned professional, this resource has everything you need to manage your properties effectively and maintain positive tenant relationships. What’s inside? ✅ A lease draft template ✅ Inspection checklists ✅ Guidance on Pay-to-Stay laws And much more! Click below to view and download. ⬇️

Lead can be found in paint, soil, dust, and water lines, and young children are at the greatest risk of health problems related to lead exposure, causing developmental delays. Thanks to a grant from H2Ohio, we’re working with Toledo childcare facilities to replace lead water lines. Watch to learn more! 🎥

Lead can be found in paint, soil, dust, and water lines, and young children are at the greatest risk of health problems related to lead exposure, causing developmental delays. Thanks to a grant from H2Ohio, we’re working with Toledo childcare facilities to replace lead water lines. Watch to learn more! 🎥

The City of Toledo's Vibrancy Initiative continues to demonstrate how strategic investment in the built environment can support broader community development goals. Earlier this month, 19 businesses will receive awards to support façade improvements, interior renovations, and future development planning. Collectively, these projects are expected to catalyze approximately $13.5 million in commercial building improvements, helping reactivate underutilized properties, strengthen commercial corridors, and create tenant-ready spaces for future investment. We announced the awards at the historic Mosaic Theatre on Broadway Street in the Old South End. The redevelopment of this property illustrates the intersection of placemaking, economic development, and social services. Plans for the site include community-serving programming focused on supporting low-income families through cradle-to-career initiatives, including Baby University and an Early Learning Center. These projects reflect how targeted redevelopment can advance multiple public goals simultaneously—from neighborhood revitalization and commercial corridor development to improved access to educational, family-support, and community-based services.

In October 2020, Toledo City Council passed the Toledo Lead Safe Ordinance, requiring rental properties with 1-4 units built before 1978 to be lead-safe certified. Certification means a property has been inspected and proven to be safe from lead hazards, like peeling paint or lead dust. Lead poisoning can permanently affect a child’s health, development, and future. If you’re a landlord, now’s the time to get certified. Find a local lead inspector at toledoleadsafe.com