Battery Park is an urban redevelopment project on 13 acres between W. 73rd and W. 76th streets north of Detroit Avenue in Cleveland's Detroit-Shoreway neighborhood. Developer Marous Bros. is investing $100 million in 300 new housing units, converting the old Eveready Powerhouse into a private restaurant, market, and meeting place, and setting aside public access green space on its site overlooking Edgewater Beach. Construction has begun on phase one of single-family homes, townhomes and luxury lofts with occupancy expected by spring 2006. 

In addition to the lake views, the developers are touting a future connection to the lakefront itself as $49.8 million in state and federal funds is already promised to convert the West Shoreway into a Lakefront Boulevard. As part of that project, W. 73rd Street will have a new intersection with pedestrian access to the lakeshore. 

Marous should be commended for its vision in creating a mix of retail, housing and public space. The plan increases walkability and creates a sense of place. Perhaps another good will gesture would be inviting the neighborhood to help design the park area so it becomes a real social space, and to waive the fee to use the community center for block clubs and other community groups. 

In addition, all of the units will receive the city's 15-year, 100% tax abatement on the increased value of the property. That irks some nearby residents who attended a public meeting, The Plain Press reported. City residents absorb the cost of the infrastructure improvements, a city official admitted, but the new residents pay taxes on the value of the land and payroll taxes.

Former Mayor Campbell's target of 1500 new housing units a year was cited by the developer, and, indeed, infill development that brings in new residents is still a priority. But, with Mayor Frank Jackson openly questioning the wisdom of 100% tax abatements, will it be long before he makes public the cost-benefit analyses on projects like Battery Park? What is the cost of improving infrastructure, providing police and fire service and the loss of property tax compared to the gain in current land tax and income tax? We would like to know the answer.