Lucas County took a major step towards the construction of a new ballpark in downtown Toledo today.

With criteria established by The Board of Lucas County Commissioners before proceeding with site acquisition essentially being met, Lucas County will exercise real estate options to acquire $4,005,000 in Warehouse District properties and $1,300,000 for parking lots for the new ballpark.

“This is a momentous day, a day to look forward into the 21st century and anticipate baseball returning to downtown Toledo,” said Sandy Isenberg, President of the Board of Lucas County Commissioners.


Lucas County Commissioners authorized the purchase during the regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of County Commissioners, at 9:30am, at One Government Center, February 24th, 2000.

The properties include several buildings on Superior, Huron, and Monroe Streets, bounded by Washington. Also included are two parking lots on either side of Washington, on Summit. Lucas County officials plan to close on the properties within 30 days.

“Many people have come to me with questions about parking, I’m glad two lots are included in this purchase, and want people to know that we are addressing their parking concerns,” said Commissioner Bill Copeland.

“I’d encourage private investors and the City of Toledo to see this county financial commitment as a green light to begin cleaning up and improving the infrastructure of the Warehouse District, and to accelerate the rehabilitation of adjacent buildings. I see the ballpark as a catalyst for exciting redevelopment in that historic neighborhood,” said Commissioner Harry Barlos.