Cleveland Heights city officials are working to determine the cause of a devastating fire that destroyed much of a $66 million apartment complex under construction near the corner of Cedar and Lee Roads.
The blaze, which started Friday evening around 7:45 p.m., burned for nearly 20 hours and required assistance from 16 surrounding communities to extinguish. What was to be known as The Marquee at Cedar Lee is now a shell of ash and ice, leaving city leaders and developers grappling with the aftermath.
At a Monday press conference, Cleveland Heights Mayor Kahlil Seren and fire investigators emphasized a careful, methodical approach to uncover the cause of the fire.
“We never come into it with the idea that it is intentionally set. We come in blindly and let the facts of the case speak for themselves,” said Fire Investigator Thomas Beers.
The Cleveland Heights Fire Department is seeking community assistance, asking anyone with photos, videos, or information about unusual activity in the area to come forward. Investigators are also reviewing security footage and interviewing workers from the site, including electricians and HVAC and utilities contractors.
Mayor Seren urged patience, explaining that premature conclusions could skew the investigation. “We will get to the facts about what happened, but we don’t want to let any early assumptions shape our response or findings,” he said.
The fire destroyed the larger of two buildings at the site, which was approximately 75% complete. It was set to include 200 luxury apartments and retail space, with an anticipated summer 2025 opening. A smaller structure on Lee Road, which was recently completed, was not affected.
Although the larger building had a sprinkler system, Cleveland Heights Fire Chief Jim Harry confirmed it had not yet been activated due to the ongoing construction.
Once the investigation concludes, the city’s building department plans to issue a demolition order for the damaged structure, according to Chief Building Official Eric Elmi.
“It is very sad,” Elmi said. “We were so looking forward to this project, but it didn’t happen.”
Flaherty & Collins Properties, the development partner on the project, has expressed a commitment to rebuilding. However, Seren acknowledged the financial complexities involved. The rebuild’s cost will depend on the investigation’s findings and the outcomes of insurance claims from developers and contractors.
At this time, there is no indication that the city will subsidize the reconstruction.
The $66 million project, originally intended to revitalize the Cedar Lee neighborhood, now faces significant setbacks. However, city officials remain optimistic about eventually bringing new life to the area.
“This project was meant to be transformative for the community,” Seren said. “We’re committed to figuring out the path forward.”
The investigation remains ongoing, with updates expected as more information becomes available. Officials encourage anyone with relevant details to contact the Cleveland Heights Fire Department.