Challenge
When the LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland engaged Allegro, they were occupying a leased basement space in the Detroit Shoreway neighborhood in Cleveland. The space was not welcoming, had minimal visible signage, and didn’t properly fit the needs of the organization or its programming. The LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland hired Allegro to assist with their relocation after being referred by another non-profit organization.
Solution
Allegro first performed a rent vs. own analysis, looking at current occupancy costs and analyzing subjective and objective criteria such as management and maintenance of a new property, and long-term capital expenses (roof, HVAC, etc.). Through this strategic analysis, it was determined that the more viable option was for the LGBT Community Center to own their property.
Allegro worked with the LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland to create and administer a survey to community members in order to determine what the most crucial features were in a new space (location, safety, access to public transportation, outdoor areas, etc.). Armed with the insight this feedback provided, Allegro searched for in-market opportunities in many neighborhoods but focused specifically on the Gordon Square Arts District, close to the current LGBT Community Center. Upon determining there were no viable in-market opportunities, Allegro began looking at off-market opportunities. Allegro assisted the organization with the acquisition of a space in the greater Gordon Square area after performing due diligence on the property, addressing zoning, environmental, and geotech concerns.
A Mr. Hero franchise occupied the acquired property, but was demolished to allow for the construction of a new, modern facility. The much larger space makes way for better programming and visible signage, and creates a welcoming environment in a highly-trafficked area.
