A major step forward is underway for the future home of the Cleveland Browns. Crews have begun mass excavation at the Brook Park construction site, marking one of the biggest visible phases yet for the project.

The work includes digging an 80-foot-deep footprint for the planned domed stadium — Huntington Bank Field.

Brook Park Mayor Ed Orcutt said the progress represents more than just construction.

“It’s here. It’s coming, and we’re extremely excited,” Orcutt said. “Brook Park’s evolving into something different. The whole region’s evolving. This is going to be something special.”

The city’s planning commission met Monday to hear details from Haslam Sports Group and development partner Lincoln Property Company about what will surround the new stadium.

Ted Tywang, chief administrative officer and general counsel with Haslam Sports Group, emphasized how long the project has been in the works.

“We’ve been working on this for years and years,” Tywang said. “We started future stadium planning many years ago. Now we’re here. We’re building the project for our fans, for the region, and we couldn’t be more excited.”

Developers unveiled plans for a large mixed-use district intended to bring year-round activity — not just football crowds.

The proposal includes:

More than 1,500 apartments

Retail and dining options

Seasonal attractions, including a summer farmers market and winter ice skating

Tywang said the development must function as a destination on its own.

“The development and this level of private investment does not make sense unless you’re going to have year-round activity,” he said. “We want a place that is about way more than football.”

Mayor Orcutt said the housing and hotel components meet real needs in the market.

“There’s a housing shortage, so we’re excited about putting in luxury apartments,” he said. “A hotel with 452 rooms right next to the airport is going to be great.”

Developers plan to:

Break ground on the mixed-use district in 2027

Open both the district and the new stadium in spring 2029

Tywang said the project reflects a broader vision for the region.

Brook Park’s planning commission now has 45 days from the submission date, Feb. 13, to approve or deny the development plans. Members expressed excitement but said they want to thoroughly review the proposal before taking a vote.