Three Arches Ohio - Where Everyone Gathers
Community and Statewide Impact
The Power of a Shared Space
This project transforms a historic building into a welcoming community hub that brings people together and creates lasting benefits for residents and the state of Ohio. Spaces for arts, athletics, education, and wellness improve health, inspire connection, and strengthen the local economy.
Economic Impact & Tourism
“Travel spending is high, and most respondents plan to spend more in 2025. Cultural organizations remain a priority for travelers.” — Ohio Travel Industry Report, Jan 2025
Repurposing Napoleon’s historic school, including the 700-seat JLJ Auditorium, as a community hub will not only preserve an important landmark but also generate measurable economic activity. By creating a regional destination for events, performances, and gatherings, this project can capture a share of growing tourism dollars while keeping spending local. Experiences in rural Ohio already show that investments like this strengthen small businesses, support jobs, and help communities thrive.
Ohio Travel Industry Report 2025
Cross-Sector Strategies for Creative Rural Development (2025)
Health & Well Being
“Communities with strong arts and cultural resources tend to be healthier, more connected, and offer more opportunities for gathering.” — Livability Impact Study of the Arts, 2025
Community hubs that combine athletics, education, wellness, and the arts contribute directly to healthier communities. These spaces reduce isolation, build belonging, and improve both mental and physical well-being. Small investments in community infrastructure deliver measurable health benefits for residents and create stronger, more resilient towns.
Youth & Community Life
“Juvenile crime and victimization peak in the hours immediately after school. Afterschool programs during this time keep young people safe and engaged.” — National League of Cities, 2025
We know that young people need things to do and safe places to go. Repurposing Napoleon’s historic school will do exactly that—offering positive activities and mentorship that help youth stay connected and supported during the hours when risk is highest. National research shows the difference this makes: one community reported a 67% drop in juvenile arrests between 3 and 6 p.m., and a youth justice program in Montana cut recidivism from 55% to as low as 10–15%.
By providing structured opportunities and a sense of belonging, this project gives young people a reason to stay involved for the right reasons—and adults a place to come together to strengthen those connections.
Adaptive Reuse Across The U.S.
Adaptive Reuse Across The U.S.
Adaptive Reuse Across The U.S.
A recent Smart Cities Dive article spotlights closed school buildings transformed into artist studios, nonprofits, cafes, and municipal uses. These projects illustrate how communities are reclaiming empty schools as vibrant civic assets. View
Monclova, Ohio
Adaptive Reuse Across The U.S.
Adaptive Reuse Across The U.S.
The Monclova Community Center, located in a restored historic school building, now serves as a year-round gathering place for weddings, meetings, and community events.
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Bryan, Ohio
Adaptive Reuse Across The U.S.
The Yunion (Detroit, MI)
The former Bryan High School is being transformed into an Arts and Education Center that will house performance, learning, and creative spaces to connect residents of all ages. View
The Yunion (Detroit, MI)
Reeb Avenue Center (Columbus, OH)
The Yunion (Detroit, MI)
Once a shuttered charter school, The Yunion is now a youth development center providing space for job training, life skills, counseling, and community programming. It demonstrates how a building can be reactivated around people and purpose. View
Reeb Avenue Center (Columbus, OH)
Reeb Avenue Center (Columbus, OH)
Reeb Avenue Center (Columbus, OH)
After a $12 million renovation, this former elementary school became a community center serving Columbus’s South Side. Today it hosts early childhood programs, after-school activities, support services, workforce development, and a café. View
Open Air School (Columbus, OH)
Reeb Avenue Center (Columbus, OH)
Reeb Avenue Center (Columbus, OH)
Built in 1928 as the Open Air School, this historic building has been repurposed into a community space featuring a café and event areas while preserving its distinctive architectural character.
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