By Debbie Adams
Progress continues on the Cleveland Commons (the former Cleveland Mart) mixed-use project in
Vinton with plans for a May opening.
In May 2023, the Town of Vinton, the Roanoke County Economic Development Authority, and
CMART Holdings signed a Performance Agreement to redevelop the former Cleveland Mart
into the mixed-use commercial and residential property. The purpose was to revitalize a
neighborhood near downtown, increase commercial opportunities, generate new local tax
revenues, and add to the housing inventory.
Owners Chris Dowdy and Dominic Basile of CMART describe the project as a “unique blend of
residential and commercial spaces, perfect for those seeking a vibrant, safe, and convenient
lifestyle.”
The building houses seven apartments (two one-bedroom/one bath and five two-bedroom/1
bath), and one commercial space on East Cleveland Avenue.
seven apartments and a “build to suit” commercial space.
The commercial space measures 1,160 square feet; zoned mixed-use, it is appropriate for office
space, retail, a barbershop, salon, etc. The space includes a breakroom and bathroom and is ADA
accessible. The developers will “build to suit.”
The two smaller residential units are about 700 square feet in area; the larger ones, between 780
and 900 square feet. They include energy and space-saving high-efficiency HVAC and
appliances with dishwashers and in-unit washer/dryers. There are granite countertops in both
kitchen and bath, and stainless steel appliances. The flooring is LVP (luxury vinyl plank). Living
areas are open-concept.
All units are high-speed Internet ready, with fiber and coaxial infrastructure. There is a fire
suppression system throughout the structure. All units – residential and commercial – have
dedicated parking spaces, off the street.
A tour of the property indicates that renovations have truly surpassed expectations. The
apartments are large and welcoming with great lighting and high ceilings. There are bathtubs, not
just showers, and large closets. There is privacy with corridors, outside entrances, and walls so
substantially insulated that neighbors don’t hear each other.
At this point, insulation and drywall are being delivered and installed. Inspections are being
completed in a timely fashion to enable opening in the spring.
General Contractor Noah Construction, owned by Mike Vanderpool, has again earned its
reputation for quality workmanship and meticulous attention to detail.
Cleveland Commons is located in the area of Vinton near the newly renovated Roland E. Cook
Lofts. The development is located about halfway between downtown Vinton and Lake Drive
Plaza and easily walkable to both.
The Cleveland Commons project has already sparked residential redevelopment projects on
nearby properties. The town does not foresee the area becoming more commercial, but remaining
mainly residential.
Dowdy says they seem to have timed their project advantageously as the Western Virginia Water
Authority has just completed replacing all utility lines on Cleveland Avenue and the street is
newly repaved.
For more information, contact Dowdy and Basile at clevelandcommons528@gmail.com or call
540-227-4108.
