Entry Title: The Anchor District
Team Code: 2025-17085
School: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Overview (Narrative Excerpt from Original Project Submission):

The Anchor District is a $3.6 billion development project that will cost $2.9 billion and be delivered over four phases. The development builds upon the growing water and blue innovation economy in the Great Lake’s region to establish an Ohio-based hub for next-generation industries. The district will partner with Case Western University, Great Lakes ReNEW, and Cleveland Water Alliance to create a campus, research and development labs, and cutting-edge maker space for water technology startups. The development extends the Waterfront Line along the CSX corridor with added bus service throughout the site and bike and pedestrian paths. A central curved spine forms the backbone of the district; beginning with an underground connector that integrates Addison Road the spine links directly to landscaped water features and a pedestrian bridge to the future CHEERS project. With 20% affordable units at 40% AMI, the district prioritizes affordability and inclusivity in the 2,078 available residential units. New amenities include daycare facilities, grocery stores, shopping and dining centers, and a job training facility for the blue economy. The Anchor District features 250,000 square feet of open greenspace and incorporates sustainable infrastructure with bioswales, stormwater filtration systems, capturing and purifying runoff. Financing includes $83 million in subsidies and grants from CHIF and LIHTC.