BROOK PARK, Ohio \u2014 It\u2019s the end of one era, and the start of a major new chapter in Northeast Ohio.<\/p>\n
The Cleveland Browns and Haslam Sports Group are set to officially break ground Thursday evening on a new enclosed dome stadium in Brook Park.<\/p>\n
It is a project expected to reshape the area’s dynamics.<\/p>\n
The $2.6 billion development marks a significant shift away from the team\u2019s longtime Downtown Cleveland lakefront home.<\/p>\n
The new stadium has a targeted opening date in 2029.<\/p>\n
The official groundbreaking of the future stadium is scheduled for 5 p.m. with several high-profile leaders expected to attend, including Cleveland Browns owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and several Browns players.<\/p>\n
The team\u2019s current downtown lease is set to expire in 2028.<\/p>\n
As excitement builds, business owners in Brook Park say they\u2019re preparing for both opportunity and a bit of disruption.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think change is always good. Sometimes change is needed,\u201d William Pecek, manager of Clutch Automotive, said.<\/p>\n
Many who spoke with News 5 believe the stadium could bring a surge in customers \u2014 especially on game days.<\/p>\n
“I look forward to Sundays when the games are on, and it’s just jamming left and right and you\u2019re non stop,” Brittany Smith, Brook Park delivery driver, said.<\/p>\n
At Brookgate Shopping Center, Javier Flores’ Brookgate Barber Shop has been a community staple for the past several decades.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019ve been the only barbershop for 65\u201366 years,\u201d Flores said.<\/p>\n
He recently signed a new five-year lease to remain locked in place through the stadium\u2019s anticipated opening.<\/p>\n
While there’s excitement, he admits there are concerns amongst small business owners<\/p>\n
\u201cIt could drive us out with high rent. I like the idea, but it\u2019s also a scary feeling,\u201d Flores said.<\/p>\n
Flores and others worry about rising property values, increased taxes, and outside investment that could potentially push out long-standing community-oriented businesses.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou get a lot of people with the big bucks, and it could change up everything,\u201d Flores said.<\/p>\n
Supporters say the project could deliver a much-needed boost to locally owned businesses still recovering from the pandemic.<\/p>\n
“I think it\u2019s good for the area. I think it will bring more dollars to small businesses, locally owned mom and pop places that really need a push,” Smith said.<\/p>\n
Pecek sees the move as a win-win from car repairs\u2014and the Browns’ future.<\/p>\n
He’s eager for new clients and a clean slate.<\/p>\n
\u201cI can\u2019t wait to get the Browns off the lake. Get rid of the curse,” Pecek said.<\/p>\n
The domed stadium is expected to open in time for the 2029 NFL season.<\/p>\n
There is also growing speculation that the new venue could position Cleveland to host a future Super Bowl.<\/p>\n
“It’s very possible. It’s happened in other cities who have been through this. Let’s see!” Flores said.<\/p>\n
For now, business owners like Flores say they\u2019re watching closely \u2014 looking to extend hours once it opens, but cautiously optimistic about future proceedings.<\/p>\n
“Long term, I\u2019m excited. It\u2019ll be a great thing. It\u2019ll be a lot different over here. It won\u2019t be quiet over here. The peace and quiet is long gone. But we are ready,” Flores said.<\/p>\n
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