Business View Civil and Municipal l December 2022

41 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 9, ISSUE 12 restructuring and resurfacing will need to occur in that area, and the multi-street reconstruction that is underway is progressing to support this effort. A contractor has been awarded for the street reconstruction efforts at a total cost of $3.15 million, with Cleveland Water picking up about $2.2 million of the bill. It will cover a comprehensive paving and resurfacing project that also includes the grading of water lines by Cleveland Water to prevent future issues. Garfield Heights is partnering with Clean Future Ohio to look at ways of not just attracting sustainable-focused businesses and manufacturers but building green infrastructure in the city. One of its large newer employers is Rivian Auto, which opened a service center for its electric truck business in the city. This partnership with Clean Future Ohio and the city’s commitment to Rivian and other possible businesses has helped it to attract grant money for electric charging stations around the U.S. This is especially helpful because three exits off I-480 border Garfield Heights, so it has room to add charging stations to lots directly off the freeway for commuters and carpools. Burke hopes this will allow the city to attract future green energy employers, EV battery manufacturers, and EV companies. He has even been in touch with economic development professionals and manufacturers in Canada who feel they can harvest the materials to make more batteries. The Canadian government believes that half of all vehicles sold in Canada will be EVs or hybrids by 2025. “We’re hoping that some of that business trickles down to Northeastern Ohio,” Burke says. “We’re only four hours away from them and can get anywhere quickly to anywhere from here.” Burke also feels that Garfield Heights is a great location for remote workers because of its accessibility and transportation benefits. He allows city employees to work remotely when possible GARF I ELD HE IGHTS , OHIO