Do It Yourself

The intersection of Miles and Richmond Roads in Bedford Heights has long been a hotbed for construction-related businesses. In fact, there are more than 35 such businesses in that one neighborhood. With that much competition, one might suspect a survival-of-the-fittest atmosphere. Instead, the businesses have decided to band together to form a nonprofit entity called the Building District.

Customer benefit is the impetus behind the group’s formation, says President Doug Rende.

The companies vary in their specialties and attract many different customers. "This is a market neighborhood where you can get everything from products and materials to service and installation in the same place," says Rende, who also is president of Babin Building Solutions, a building supply wholesaler. The Building District offers individuals and businesses products such as lumber, rugs, windows, tile, and marble, as well as an array of services, such as plumbing, design, manufacturing, and installation.

The goal is to create a neighborhood shopping district for builders, contractors, remodelers, and homeowners. Member businesses will work to attract new customers to the area, in an effort to benefit all of the businesses. Multi-location sales and promotions are in the works.

The Building District also contributes to charities and other nonprofit community organizations such as Habitat for Humanity.

The Building District plans to expand its voice in the community, adding at least 15 more members by the end of 2005. "We want people to know that if they need anything in building, the destination and location is Miles and Richmond," says Rende.