Where the VA Hospital once stood, a new era for Brecksville is taking shape. Valor Acres isn’t just a construction project, it’s the city’s next chapter, a reimagined center for community, innovation, and connection.
Located at the corner of Miller and Brecksville Roads, Valor Acres is a 90-acre mixed-use development led by the DiGeronimo Companies in partnership with the city of Brecksville, transforming what was once vacant land into a vibrant, walkable community where residents can live, work, and socialize. The project, which began construction in 2021 and is progressing in phases, blends modern design with small-town character to create “a connected, human-centered environment” that reflects Brecksville’s values. As of October 2025, several areas are complete or nearing completion, and the development has already attracted major tenants, including Sherwin-Williams, which is building a 600,000-square-foot Research & Development Center expected to bring hundreds of jobs to the region. Infrastructure upgrades, such as improved access to I-77, are also helping prepare the city for continued growth.
Canvas, Valor Acres’ luxury apartment building, was the first major portion of the development to open, giving the city an early glimpse of what the space will offer. The building features one, two, and three-bedroom units, along with amenities like a rooftop deck, resort-style pool, and pickleball court. On the ground floor, Primer, a coffee shop and bar, provides a casual gathering spot for residents and visitors. The Post, an open-air bar and event venue, is also one of the newest additions now welcoming guests. With indoor and outdoor seating for over 600 people, it has quickly become a go-to spot for socializing and community gatherings. Along with Canvas and Primer, these early openings bring energy and life to Valor Acres, forming the development into a vibrant, inviting atmosphere even as the rest of the project continues to take shape.
Valor Acres is also set to include a grocery store, a movie theater, and a variety of local shops and dining options, giving residents and visitors new ways to spend time in the city.
One of the most anticipated additions to Valor Acres is Masu, a modern sushi concept from chef Dante Boccuzzi. Masu, opening in November 2025, will offer both fast-casual lunch options and an upscale dinner experience, featuring authentic Japanese traditions and fresh fish. This new venture joins Boccuzzi’s portfolio, which includes acclaimed establishments like Ginko, Goma, and Dante. In the kitchen at Masu will be chef Jacob McDaniel, who is currently at Ginko. Masu’s arrival adds to the growing list of high-quality dining options in the area, complementing other notable establishments such as Flour, an Italian kitchen and bar known for its handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas, which is opening a second location in Valor Acres. These openings reflect the project’s aim to curate exceptional experiences, raising the bar for dining and entertainment in the city.
Beyond the new buildings and amenities, Valor Acres is already showing its impact on the broader community, including Brecksville’s schools. Jonah Pichette, a BBHHS teacher who manages student government, noted how the development has supported local projects. “Last year, Student Government wanted to pass out rally towels at the homecoming football game,” Pichette said. “Then Student Body President, Phil Packard, coordinated with community partners such as Valor Acres and DiGeronimo Companies, who generously donated to Student Government so we could purchase the towels. We were able to pass out hundreds at the Homecoming game and later at a basketball game to boost school spirit.” Though Pichette lives outside of Brecksville, he’s intrigued by the development and is looking forward to visiting once more restaurants and shops open. “From an outsider’s perspective, the Valor Acres project seems like sensible development of land that will provide entertainment for people of all ages,” he said.
City leaders also see Valor Acres as a bold step forward for Brecksville’s future. Dominic Caruso, President of City Council, described the development as an investment in the city’s long-term vitality. “Valor Acres will generate revenue to support city functions for years to come,” he said. “It will create a unique, upscale community within our community, offering new dining and entertainment options outside of our existing downtown without taking away from it. The Post, for example, has already drawn a great response as an indoor/outdoor venue unlike anything else in Brecksville.” Caruso highlighted the project’s economic benefits, noting that it will bring high-paying jobs, expand residential options for people wanting to downsize or age in place, and provide younger residents with modern living opportunities. Property values are likely to rise, benefiting the local school system.
Local residents are already feeling the buzz. Senior Owen Snider said, “I feel like it will help give more life and modernize the community. I’d go out more with these new areas being built, and I really hope Valor Acres makes Brecksville feel more upscale and lively.” Senior Brianna Sebastian added, “People will go out more instead of just staying home since there will be more things to do and places to hang out. I hope it’s casual and fun: somewhere teens and families can both enjoy.”
Valor Acres signals a major step forward for Brecksville. The project breathes new life into the area and reflects the city’s push toward a more connected, modern future. As restaurants open, offices fill, residents move in, and public spaces come alive, Valor Acres will continue to shape Brecksville’s identity: a district where the city’s past and future coexist, and where opportunity, connection, and community thrive.
