VERMILION, OH – NOVEMBER 7, 2025 — A long-vacant school property in the heart of Vermilion is on the verge of a transformational redevelopment, led by Garrett Daniel Allen, principal of Yves Development, LLC. The proposed project will convert the environmentally compromised site at 935 Decatur Street into a new residential neighborhood designed to blend seamlessly with Vermilion’s historic charm and small-town character.

The approximately 10-acre parcel, formerly a middle school operated by the Vermilion Board of Education, has sat dormant for years. The site contains aging infrastructure and environmental hazards that require careful remediation. Through Yves Development, Allen plans to remediate and demolish the existing building, replacing it with a vibrant residential community and publicly accessible amenities.

The proposal includes approximately 80 homes, a mix of ranch-style residences and townhomes ranging from 1,426 to 2,085 square feet. Lower-density units will front Decatur Street, reflecting the scale of the existing neighborhood, while townhomes will be clustered toward the interior to create more open space and a pedestrian-oriented street network. Landscaped walkways, shared green spaces, and a community park will contribute to a walkable neighborhood within easy distance of Vermilion’s downtown core.

“This property sits in a prime location with incredible potential. It’s rare to find a site that offers such a unique opportunity to support a city’s downtown core while honoring its identity,” said Allen. “We’re excited to be part of the Vermilion community and to help expand the personality and pride that already make this place so special.”

Mayor Jim Forthofer expressed his support for the project.

“Vermilion really needs good housing. People love it here. They want to share in our special lakefront community. I am excited by the downtown homes proposed by reputable Yves Development — good quality housing in a setting that blends into our urban area. Join me in welcoming Yves Development to Vermilion.” – Mayor Jim Forthofer

Allen acknowledged that recent development discussions in Vermilion have raised questions about density, traffic, and neighborhood compatibility. He emphasized that this project is different by design.

“We’ve watched what hasn’t worked in other proposals,” Allen said. “We went back to the drawing board to make sure this project reflects the community’s character and expectations. We reduced the number of homes from what was initially studied, focusing on a scale that is both economically viable and community-friendly.”

“Many of Vermilion’s most loved neighborhoods near downtown are already fairly dense,” Allen said. “When density is paired with smart design and walkability, it enhances community character. This project shows how density can be done right — thoughtfully and responsibly.”

Yves Development has partnered with Jeff Foster of Payto Architects, who brings both deep design expertise and personal roots in the greater Sandusky area.

“Jeff has done an incredible job shaping this plan,” Allen said. “He understands what makes communities like Vermilion special, and he’s been instrumental in ensuring the design feels authentic, timeless, and connected to the neighborhood around it.”

“Redeveloping long-vacant sites like the former Vermilion Intermediate School helps communities grow in a sustainable, thoughtful way,” said Matt Lasko, Chief Development Officer of the Greater Sandusky Partnership. “This project meets a real housing need while giving new life and purpose to a property that has long been part of Vermilion’s story. Congratulations to Yves Development and the Vermilion community on this transformative project.”

“This isn’t a gated or isolated subdivision,” Allen added. “We want this to feel like a natural extension of Vermilion — a place for neighbors to gather, walk, and connect.”

“This project is about more than building homes,” Allen concluded. “It’s about building a neighborhood that reflects Vermilion’s character, supports its future, and creates a place people are proud to call home.”

About Yves Development

Yves Development is a locally rooted real estate development company focused on community-centered, attainable housing and neighborhood-scale projects. The firm emphasizes walkable design, contextual architecture, and meaningful public engagement to deliver lasting value to the communities it serves.

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