West Side Market Scores Nearly $3M Donation for Massive Makeover
Liam Cutwater · September 30, 2026
West Side Market just landed a huge $2.9M boost for its epic transformation, promising new spaces, fresh events, and more reasons to visit.
There are upgrades, and then there’s what’s happening at Cleveland’s iconic West Side Market. Thanks to a jaw-dropping $2.9 million donation, the Market’s next phase of renovations isn’t just a dream—it’s happening. And for food lovers and city loyalists alike, this means fresh spaces, more events, and one seriously bright future for our living legend of a marketplace.
The Haslams Bet Big on West Side Market
Dee and Jimmy Haslam, owners of the Browns, have pledged almost $3 million to the ongoing West Side Market Transformation Project. That hefty sum doesn’t just pad the fundraising stats—it jumpstarts the next round of construction. Their philanthropic move targets the market’s longevity, with the goal of giving Clevelanders (and out-of-towners) a destination that’s bustling for decades to come.
What’s Changing? New Spaces, More Action
This isn’t just a cosmetic reboot. The plan for the Market includes:
- A second balcony on the east mezzanine (think: killer views and expanded public seating)
- Event and education spaces for everything from foodie workshops to school field trips
- A future-ready area that could host everything from chic weddings to community cook-offs
Maybe the coolest part? The upcoming event space is going in a part of the Market that’s never been accessible to the public. Yes, you might finally party above the produce, literally.
Why This Matters: Homegrown Food, Tight-Knit Community
Sure, the Market is a killer stop for pierogi and kielbasa. But it’s also one of Cleveland’s deepest ties to local food, family businesses, and our immigrant roots. This donation isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about making our communal food hub sustainable—and a magnet for future generations (and, let’s be honest, food Instagram).
As Rosemary Mudry, the Market’s executive director, put it: it’s about unlocking the full potential of the space so our fresh food tradition thrives. With more events and outreach, local vendors get new audiences, more revenue, and the Market stays the city’s beating culinary heart.
How To See the Upgrades (and Help Out)
Curious what’s already finished— or want to get in on the action? You’ll see barricades and busy contractors for a while, but the Market remains open for your lunchtime gyros, weekend coffee runs, and sausage samples.
- Regular hours still apply, so you can visit:
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Saturday: 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Sunday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- The fundraising isn’t done yet, with about $9 million left to go. Community donors are encouraged to shape the future—think of it as buying a share of Cleveland’s DNA.
Looking Ahead: A Market for Every Clevelander
When the dust settles, expect the Market to step into a whole new era. Expanded public space means more reasons to go (and more elbow room for picking out the best apples). A thriving slate of programs and events should draw even more local talent, vendors, and next-gen foodies. And, with a sustainable financial plan coming together, the Market looks set to avoid the fate of so many historic food halls that faded into the past.
So, whether you’re a weekly loyalist, a chef on the hunt for the region’s best produce, or just someone who likes sampling your way through lunch, the next few years at West Side Market are looking tastier than ever.
Get ready to experience the next chapter in Cleveland food history—and maybe reserve a table (or balcony seat) before the rest of the city catches on.