By Erik Jones, Lorain Daily
LORAIN, OH — After years of complaints, the long-vacant and deteriorating Emerald Valley property on Leavitt Road is finally slated for demolition—thanks to a $30,000 grant from Lorain County.
Mayor Jack Bradley announced the news during Monday night’s city council meeting, confirming that the county has stepped in to fund the tear-down despite the city not owning the property. The county plans to place a lien on the land to recover the costs later, allowing the demolition to proceed without delay.
“It’s been an eyesore for far too long,” the mayor said. “The county’s support is what’s making this possible.”
Located in a high-traffic area along Leavitt Road, the Emerald Valley site has been the subject of ongoing concerns from residents, city officials, and nearby businesses. With boarded windows, crumbling walls, and overgrown vegetation, the property has attracted vandalism, illegal dumping, and safety hazards.
The structure’s deteriorating condition and lack of upkeep made it a top priority for city leadership, who had limited options due to ownership and funding barriers.
County Collaboration Makes It Happen
The $30,000 grant comes through Lorain County’s property maintenance and demolition initiative, aimed at eliminating blighted structures and revitalizing neighborhoods across the county.
Though the city typically cannot demolish properties it doesn’t own, this collaboration allows Lorain to move forward with clearing the land while placing the financial responsibility on the property’s title.
“This is a great example of intergovernmental cooperation,” said a city official. “When city and county leaders align, we can make real progress on persistent problems.”
What’s Next for the Site?
Once the structure is removed, the city hopes to see new interest in redeveloping the lot, though no specific plans have been announced. The placement of a lien will ensure the county can recover the demolition funds should the property be sold or transferred in the future.
Officials noted that clearing the property will also improve the look and safety of one of Lorain’s busiest corridors—and send a message that long-term neglect won’t be tolerated.
Do you live near Emerald Valley? What do you think should go in its place?
💬 Drop your ideas in the comments — and let us know what other blighted properties the city should target next.
It would be nice if they could use this property to mitigate the flooding in the area; specifically, the Tower Blvd. area and St. James Reserve. There used to be a pond there and there is a stream blocked up with garbage. There is a lot of wildlife back there so it would be nice if we could keep their habitat. If they build more, there will be more flooding. At least limit building to the front of the property.
Sports fields and parking for the lost nation athletic facility behind the lot.