113 years after it was first annexed by the city of Cleveland, Old Brooklyn is becoming new again.

With a steadily shifting population (including rapidly growing African-American and Latino demographics) and an equally changing economic landscape (with Chain Reaction slated to bring at least five new businesses into the area), Old Brooklyn is entering a new era. FreshWater Cleveland is excited to cover the neighborhood’s ongoing transformation in its first-ever On the Ground community reporting initiative.

For 10 weeks, FreshWater Cleveland will practice embedded journalism in the Old Brooklyn area—uncovering the people, places, and projects that are shaping and driving its future. {Spoiler alert: though the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is incredible, Old Brooklyn has so much more to offer as well.)

Some of the themes and topics explored will include: momentum in economic development; significant shifts in population growth and demographics; strides in education; the results of an in-depth community health assessment; and efforts to enhance and improve the community. Along with reported stories, content will include photo essays and multimedia, as well as a live event.

The On the Ground initiative is being made possible by partnerships with the Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation, Greater Cleveland Partnership, Cleveland Development Advisors, Cleveland Neighborhood Progress, and Cleveland Metropolitan School District.

Dive into one of Cleveland’s oldest neighborhoods—and newest hotspots—with us as we launch our first feature tomorrow, Thursday, August 16.