Proposed $18 Million Renovation for 2001 Payne Avenue
Cleveland is planning a major renovation of the historic police headquarters at 2001 Payne Avenue to create a centralized hub for various city departments. Emergency Ordinance 1323-2026 seeks to authorize the construction, rehabilitation, and renovation of the building, which was originally constructed in 1926. The project aims to consolidate administrative offices into this city-owned facility, allowing the city to vacate leased spaces at 65 and 75 Erieview before those leases expire at the end of 2028.
What's in the file
The legislation authorizes the Director of Capital Projects to enter into public improvement and professional service contracts to complete the renovation. According to the Legislative Summary, the project is a strategic move to reduce long-term rent expenses and maximize the use of City-owned property.
The proposed scope of work for the renovation includes:
- Upgrading or replacing HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems, including a new emergency generator.
- Modernizing the fire alarm and fire protection infrastructure.
- Replacing flat roofs and the north entrance vestibule.
- Installing new LED lighting and upgrading building technology.
- Performing interior renovations to ceilings, floors, doors, walls, and stairs.
- Restoring unique historic features of the building.
- Implementing interior and exterior improvements for ADA accessibility.
- Enhancing security and adding new furniture systems and equipment.
The project involves a significant financial comparison between the proposed investment and current lease obligations:
| Description | Amount |
|---|---|
| Proposed renovation investment | $18 million |
| Projected rent at The Fives through end of 2028 | $14.20 million |
Who may be affected
- City Departments: The Department of Public Health, Department of Aging, Office of Sustainability, Office of Urban Analytics & Innovation, and Cleveland 311 will relocate from leased spaces to 2001 Payne Avenue.
- City Employees: Approximately 315 employees currently in leased areas and up to 475 total employees are expected to use the modernized facility.
- Public Safety: Existing Public Safety staff at 2001 Payne Avenue will relocate to the new Cleveland Division of Police Headquarters, making room for the administrative offices.
- Residents: The project is described as a citywide investment that will provide improved access to various department services.
Status and timeline
- 2026-10-22: A memo was sent to City Council members regarding the upcoming legislation and project details.
- 2026-10-23: The emergency ordinance was introduced.
Residents can verify all details of this proposal by reviewing the official records for File No. 1323-2026 through the Cleveland City Council website.
Source record
- File
- 1323-2026
- Type
- Emergency Ordinance
- Status
- First Reading
- Committee
- City Council
- Introduced
- October 22, 2026