CAMBRIDGE, Ohio (AVC News) — A historic downtown Cambridge building has been transformed into a mixed-use destination for food, entertainment, recreation, business and community gatherings.
Midtown Market, located at 1023 Wheeling Ave., officially opened Thursday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Cambridge Area Chamber of Commerce and Midtown Market.
The nearly $1.5 million redevelopment project has transformed the two-story building into a more than 17,260-square-foot mixed-use market featuring food vendors, office and co-working space, indoor recreation and entertainment.
The building was constructed in 1920 as the Sipe Chevrolet dealership and remained a car dealership until 2018.
Thursday’s celebration included tours of the newly repurposed building and was held in partnership with JobsOhio, Ohio Southeast Economic Development, the City of Cambridge and the Cambridge-Guernsey Community Improvement Corporation.
The project received a $450,000 JobsOhio Vibrant Community grant. The program provides competitive grants for development projects intended to transform areas within eligible communities, including mixed-use developments and operated shared spaces.
“Small towns across Ohio are proving that big transformations often start with a single building,” Gov. Mike DeWine said. “Midtown Market is a model for what’s possible when we invest in our historic downtowns to create commercial hubs that spark development and job growth.”
JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef said the project demonstrates how local businesses and community partners can work together on downtown development.
“The Midtown Market is now a bustling center of activity in downtown Cambridge, demonstrating how a local hub can bring people together and strengthen a community for generations to come,” Nauseef said.
The market includes local food and beverage businesses such as Chopp Boxx Hibachi and Pho-Sushi Bar, Delizio’s Pizza, Subs & Ice Cream, Desperado Baja, Taste of Greece & Moroccan Street Food, Chapman’s Coffee House, Bowl’d and The Station on Twenty-Two. The Thirsty Turtle also operates as a bar and restaurant within the facility.
Entertainment options include two duckpin bowling areas, arcade games, an indoor playground, private birthday party rooms and other family-oriented activities.
Midtown Market also offers office and co-working space, conference rooms and private event rentals.
Bill Arnett, executive director of the Cambridge-Guernsey Community Improvement Corporation, credited the local owners and numerous community organizations involved in bringing the project to completion.
“The CIC is excited to congratulate Midtown Market on their ribbon cutting and official opening in downtown Cambridge,” Arnett said. “Getting this project done took the work of numerous groups and organizations, but without the vision and financial commitment from the local owners it wouldn’t have happened.”
Cambridge Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Jennifer Vincent said the project adds another business and gathering place to downtown.
“Every new business that chooses to invest in downtown adds to the energy and momentum we’re seeing in our community,” Vincent said. “Midtown Market brings something unique to the area, and it’s wonderful to see local entrepreneurs investing in Cambridge, creating new opportunities, and giving residents and visitors another reason to spend time downtown.”
Cambridge Mayor Tom Orr also credited the partnerships behind the project and the JobsOhio grant funding.
“The transformation of this historic downtown building into a place where families can eat, play, work, and gather represents a significant investment in the future of Cambridge,” Orr said. “Midtown Market brings new energy and opportunities to Wheeling Avenue while preserving an important part of our city’s history.”
Matt Abbott, president and CEO of OhioSE, said the project aligns with the goals of the Vibrant Community Program.
“Midtown Market is bringing much-needed services and capacity to downtown and has already proven itself to be an effective community hub,” Abbott said.
The market’s owners have described Midtown Market as more than a collection of businesses, with the goal of creating a place where families, friends and community members can gather while also providing opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs.
The project is expected to serve as a hub for entrepreneurship and collaborative work while contributing to continued development and revitalization in downtown Cambridge.
Last Updated on September 24, 2026 by AVC News
