This process marks a pivotal milestone in Mayor Bibb’s efforts to create jobs and deliver 5,000 affordable, high quality homes
Cleveland, July 8, 2025 — The City of Cleveland announced today a major step forward in its housing initiative, naming four manufacturer finalists in its Request for Proposals (RFP) process, and securing the site for a future off-site construction housing factory.
Following a competitive review process, the City has selected the following construction manufacturers as finalists: Module, ModDSys/Container Homes USA (CHUSA), ZenniHome, and Guardian Structural Technologies. Module, ModDSys/CHUSA, and ZenniHome are modular manufacturers who produce modules (3D) that are 90-95% completed in the factory and assembled on site. Guardian produces panels (2D) for framing a house and roof more rapidly and with greater home energy efficiency than traditional stick-built construction.
Each manufacturer is currently participating in a “product pilot” phase, during which their designs, construction processes, and business models will be evaluated.
As part of the product pilot, six homes, at least one from each manufacturer, will be developed in the Clark-Fulton and Buckeye neighborhoods in partnership with Habitat for Humanity. The homes are targeted for completion in the fall. This product testing will inform final selection of the manufacturer(s) and ensure alignment with neighborhood needs.
“Each of these finalists brings a serious interest in Cleveland, not just as a market, but as a place to invest, build, and hire,” said Jeff Epstein, Chief of Integrated Development. “In addition to creating housing opportunities, this administration is fully committed to implementing new pathways for innovation, driving economic growth, and revitalizing our neighborhoods.”
The City also released early concept renderings showcasing the types of modular and panelized homes under consideration. These preliminary designs include single-family homes that integrate with existing neighborhood character while meeting modern standards. Cleveland-specific designs are being refined to optimize the costs and practicality of those designs.
“These are high-quality homes that reflect the look and feel of Cleveland neighborhoods,” said Councilman Kris Harsh, who has been a visionary leader and partner on this project. “This initiative is about building in a way that respects and strengthens our communities. It’s also a real opportunity to expand access to affordable homeownership for Cleveland families.”
In a parallel development, the Site Readiness for Good Jobs Fund has finalized the acquisition of the former General Electric site in the Collinwood neighborhood. General Electric demonstrated strong civic partnership throughout the process, actively engaging as a responsible and collaborative stakeholder. The property will become home to Cleveland’s first off-site construction housing factory, with construction expected to begin in 2027. The facility is expected to create new local manufacturing jobs and serve as a long-term hub for innovation in off-site housing construction.
“General Electric was an anchor in this community for generations, and it’s fitting that this site will now help anchor the next generation of economic growth in Cleveland,” said Brad Whitehead, Managing Director of the Site Readiness Fund for Good Jobs. “This factory will not only deliver high-quality, affordable housing at scale—it will create high-quality jobs, strengthen local supply chains, and breathe new life into a cornerstone of the Collinwood neighborhood.”
A final manufacturer or group of manufacturers will be selected by the end of 2025. A “market pilot” will launch in early 2026, delivering 20 off-site construction homes to the St. Clair-Superior and Hough neighborhoods to gauge market interest and performance.
As the City prepares for the next phase of execution, philanthropic partners are stepping in to help bring these homes to life. The Cleveland Foundation has awarded the City $250,000 to support this phase of the project, reflecting their ongoing commitment to equitable revitalization of Cleveland neighborhoods.
