[natiboy]

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/NewCincinnatiSkyline.jpg
Photo taken by: Aaron Davidson
http://www.flickr.com/photos/aarondavidson/

I figured it was time Cincinnati had its own thread, especially since there are a lot of large projects under construction or planned, and it doesn’t seem like things will slow down anytime soon. I am going to include some recently completed projects, projects currently under construction, and planned development. So here it goes…

1.Great American Tower at Queen City Square
Cost: $322 million

This is Cincinnati’s new tallest building. It was completed in the spring of 2011, and is 660 feet tall. Tenants include Great American Insurance Company, Great American Financial Resources, Frost Brown Todd, JPMorgan, KeyBank, Fort Washington Investment Advisors, IFS Financial Services, Analytic Partners, Lafayette Life, and Capital Analysts.
Source: http://www.queencitysquare.com/tenants.php
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/QCS.jpg


2.The Banks
Cost: $1 billion
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/progress-slideshow.jpg

This is a large development along the Ohio River between Great American Ballpark and Paul Brown Stadium. It is a mixture of residential, ground floor retail, a hotel, and office space. Phase one of the project, which is right next to Great American Ballpark, was recently completed, and includes 300 apartments and 80,000 square feet of retail space. The apartments are 98% leased, and 8 tenants are committed to the retail space. It should also be noted, that this project sits on top of the largest parking underground parking garage in North America, with over 3,300 parking spaces.
Picture of phase one below:
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/4e384c7f1a083793.jpg

Phase two will begin before this summer, and is adjacent to Paul Brown Stadium. The garage which phase 2 will sit on top of is finished, and is roughly the same size as the garage supporting phase 1. Phase 2 will include another 300 apartments and 70,000 square feet of retail and office space.

Also planned for the site is this office tower:
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/office-photo.gif

No tenant has yet signed on to occupy this tower. However, just this week it was announced that a company is looking into it. The company is known for its unique and innovative workspace, so this tower could see a redesign (I hope!).

Information and photos from: http://thebankscincy.com/default.aspx


3. Smale Riverfront Park
Cost: $120 million

This 45-acre park is under construction, and is bounded by the Ohio River, the two sports stadiums, and the Banks project. It will include 12 acres of lawn space, an event lawn, grand fountains, walking and bike paths, interactive water features, and much more. It will also include a bike and mobility center. People will be able to rent bicycles at the center. Locker rooms, shower facilities, and bike storage rooms will also be available. As you can see in the video below, part of the park sits on top of the large garage which is part of the Banks project.
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/plan_small.jpg
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/EventLawn_300.jpg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBZkJuZKq2g&feature=player_embedded

Information and photos from: http://mysmaleriverfrontpark.org/index.htm
http://www.cincyparks.com/waterfront-parks/cincinnati-riverfront-park/index.shtml


4. Moerlein Lager House
Cost: About $10 million

This project is also a part of the Cincinnati Riverfront Park, and is being built by the Christian Moerlein Brewing Company.. The exterior is a rather modern design, but the inside is meant to embody Cincinnati’s 19th and 20th century German beer culture. It will have a capacity of 500 inside and 600 outside in the beer gardens. Christian Moerlein will brew beer and grow its hops on site. It will open next month, and will serve all local Cincinnati beers, as well as beer from around the world!
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/Moerlein-Lager-House2.jpg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=BWAbUWJYiHo

Information and photos from: http://www.cincyparks.com/waterfront-parks/cincinnati-riverfront-park/index.shtml
http://www.urbancincy.com/2010/06/city-council-poised-to-approve-lease-agreement-for-4m-moerlein-lager-house/
http://mysmaleriverfrontpark.org/index.htm


5. Riverfront Transit Center
Cost: $23 million

This 3, 740’ long facility was completed in 2003. I have included it in the tread because it sits directly beneath the Banks project, the stadiums, and the riverfront park. It was built to be used as a bus and commuter rail hub, but has been largely unused. However, a commuter rail project is in the works which will run through the East side of Cincinnati linking downtown and Milford. This facility will be used as the terminus of the line.
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/transitcenter12.jpg
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/transitcenter13.jpg
Information and photos from: http://www.cincinnati-transit.net/transitcenter.html


6. Cincinnati Horseshoe Casino
Cost: $400 million

This will be one of the first casinos in Ohio. Casinos are also being built by the same developer in Cleveland, Columbus, and Toledo. It is located on what was once a MASSIVE parking lot the outskirts of downtown in the Pendleton neighborhood. It is well under construction, and construction of the large 1.5 acre plaza will begin soon.
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/CincinnatiHorseshoeCasino-5sm.jpg
Information and photos from: http://bridgingbroadway.com/category/news/


7. Various Over-the-Rhine Neighborhood Projects
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/5528734168_31337424c2_o.jpg
Photo by Aaron Davidson. http://www.flickr.com/search/?w=49808295@N02&q=over%20the%20rhine

Over-the-Rhine (OTR) is one of Cincinnati’s oldest, most urban, and most beautiful neighborhoods. It was mostly built by German immigrants, and was the center of Cincinnati’s rich beer brewing history. At one point German was the overwhelmingly dominant language in the neighborhood, and in 1850 boasted a density of 86,000 people per square mile.
However, in the 1940’s the neighborhood began its decline, and until fairly recently was one of the country’s most dangerous neighborhoods. After the race riot in 2001, the neighborhood was largely emptied. Thanks to Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation, a non-profit development company, OTR is becoming one of Cincinnati’s most desirable places in the city, and is seeing a ton of new development. Their projects are mostly historic building renovations, but they are doing new construction as well. Below is a list of current 3CDC projects:

Washington Park
Cost: $48 million
This is one of the oldest parks in the city, and is directly across from the Cincinnati Music Hall. It will be 8 acres when completed, and sits above a brand new 450 space underground parking garage. The park will include interactive water features, various play areas, and an amphitheater Since it is across from music hall, classical music will be played through the speakers. People will be able to download an app to their smartphones which will allow them to select the song they want to hear. The music will be synced with the interactive water features. This is supposedly the first such system in the county. The garage is basically finished, and the park will open this year.
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/washingtonpark3.jpg
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/6689607249_dd27918125_m.jpg
Information and photos from: http://www.3cdc.org/follow-our-projects/washingtonpark/

Mercer Commons
Cost: $53.5 million

This is a HUGE residential development on Vine Street. It is a total of 2.67 acres. The renovation of 19 historic buildings and 26 vacant parcels of land are included. The project will yield 126 rental units, 28 condominiums, 17,600 square feet of commercial space, and a 340 space parking garage. Site prep just started this past week.
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/mercer6.jpg
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/mercer4.jpg
Information and photos from: http://www.3cdc.org/follow-our-projects/mercer-commons/

There are just too many 3CDC projects to list. Here is a PDF of current and planned projects, along with occupancy and revenue information: http://www.3cdc.org/images/editor/file/December%20Monthly%20Report_indd.pdf. Most of 3CDC’s completed condo projects are sold out, and the demand for more is huge. Below are some pictures of some of its completed projects:

Sangerhalle
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/SH5.jpg

The Belmain
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/BelExt2WEB.jpg

Bremen Lofts
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/bremen2.jpg

Fountain Square Overhaul
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/fountainsquare1.jpg
Photos from: http://www.3cdc.org/follow-our-projects/

Since 2004, 3CDC alone has invested more than $319 million in the neighborhood.


8. U square at the Loop
Cost: $78 million

This is a large mixed use development near the University of Cincinnati in Uptown. The project includes 150 apartments, two parking garages, office and retail space. Construction begins this month.
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/U-Square-at-The-Loop.jpg
Information and photo from: http://www.urbancincy.com/2011/12/construction-to-begin-on-78m-mixed-use-development-uptown-this-january/


9. Schiel School Redevelopment
Cost: $20 million

An old school has been demolished to make way for this mixed use development. It is also located in Uptown (Corryville) near the University of Cincinnati in the Short Vine area. It will include 102 apartments and ground level retail space.
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/Schiel-School-Infill.jpg
Information and photo from: http://www.urbancincy.com/2011/12/historic-schiel-school-to-make-way-for-20m-development-in-corryville/


10. American Can Lofts
Cost: $22 million

This old factory in the popular Northside neighborhood has been redeveloped into 110 apartments and 12,000 square feet of office and retail space. The project also included 75 parking spaces, which have been integrated inside the building. It opened in September, and is just about fully leased.
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/americancan.jpg
Information from: http://www.urbancincy.com/2011/07/22m-american-can-factory-redevelopment-to-welcome-first-residents-this-september/
Photo from: http://www.driven31.com/2011/05/visiting-american-can-lofts.html

11. Cincinnati Streetcar
Cost: $100 million

The streetcar will be Cincinnati’s first form of public rail transportation since its historic streetcars were torn out. The first phase will be a 4 mile loop modern streetcar system. It will connect the Banks, both stadiums, downtown, OTR, and Findlay market. In addition, it will connect Fountain Square, the main library, Music Hall, Government Square, Washington park, the Aronoff Center, and more than five Fortune 500 headquarters are also along the line. The next line will extend the system up to the University of Cincinnati. There are also proposed extensions to Cincinnati Union Terminal, the casino, and across the river into Covington and Newport Kentucky. Construction should begin any week now!
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/streetcar_map_small.jpg
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/Shelter_with_streetcar.jpg
Information and photo from: http://www.urbancincy.com/page/2/
http://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/noncms/projects/streetcar/


I know I am missing some. I will do my best to keep everything updated!

[Hayward]

Nice to see this. Is the American can lofts actually moving forward? Last time I saw it 10 months ago it had been deserted and all the construction equipment was gone.

[natiboy]

Nice to see this. Is the American can lofts actually moving forward? Last time I saw it 10 months ago it had been deserted and all the construction equipment was gone.

The lofts are finished. The first tenants moved in in September, and I've been told there are only a few units left!

[natiboy]

The Verona at Eden Park

This 105 year old building in Walnut Hills has been converted into 76 condos, and is nearing completion. It is already over 75% sold out.
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/bilde.jpg
Source: http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20120106/BIZ/301050187

[John Martin]

:previous:

I'm not crazy about most of those units themselves but that's a neat looking building.

[shakman]

Besides the Interstate Highway System and the taller highrises in the Greater Cincinnati area, I am not too familiar with the City so forgive me for asking about a project that may have already been mentioned...

While traveling on southbound I-71, just prior or it may have been just after the tunnel in Downtown, I noticed a large site to my right. Is that the Horseshoe Casino?

[natiboy]

Besides the Interstate Highway System and the taller highrises in the Greater Cincinnati area, I am not too familiar with the City so forgive me for asking about a project that may have already been mentioned...

While traveling on southbound I-71, just prior or it may have been just after the tunnel in Downtown, I noticed a large site to my right. Is that the Horseshoe Casino?

Yes, I believe that is the site. Here is a photo of the construction site, with I-71 in the foreground.

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/1ffd5506d7190d68d029af13e690155c8.jpg
Source: http://www.ongo.com/v/1139184/-1/AC1F0F6362F760C9/cincinnati-casino-back-on-track

Also, the casino is much further along than this, for those who are not familiar with the site.

[Dale]

OMG! That's massive!

[natiboy]

Here's an update with some projects and proposals I missed

Federal Reserve Tower Apartment Conversion.
Cost: $19 million

This is a 15-story office tower which is currently being converted into apartments. It will have 88 loft style apartments when it's finished by this summer.
Source: http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20111206/BIZ/312070051
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/FederalReserve.jpg
Picture from: http://www1.officespace.com/CFS.cfm?RgnNm=Cincinnati&BldgID=1223451295&PrimaryCoID=-1646913195&pdf=1

Here are what the views will look like from the tower.
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/FederalReserveView1.jpg

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/FederalReserveView2.jpg
These pictures were taken by "thomasbw" on the Urban Ohio forum: http://www.urbanohio.com/forum2/index.php/topic,23747.30.html


21C Hotel
Cost: $56 million

The old 10- story Metropole building is currently being converted by 3CDC and 21C Cincinnati into a boutique hotel. According to 3CDC's website, it will become a 160-room hotel, art museum, restaurant, and public exhibition space. It is scheduled to open in Fall 2012.
Source: http://www.3cdc.org/follow-our-projects/21c-museum-hotel/

Before pics:
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/21CHotel1.jpg
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/21CHotel2.jpg
Pictures taken by "UncleRando" on Urban Ohio: http://www.urbanohio.com/forum2/index.php/topic,9681.240.html

Renders:
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/21CHotelRendering.jpg
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/21CHotelRendering2.jpg
Source: http://www.3cdc.org/follow-our-projects/21c-museum-hotel/


Fort Washington Way Cap Project
Cost: Estimated $58 million

This is a planned project to cap Fort Washington Way, an urban highway which basically cuts off downtown from the riverfront. The highway was reconfigured a decade ago, which oped up several acres of development space between the stadiums, which is where the Banks is being constructed now. The highway was constructed with caps in mind, and is built to handle caps which can support buildings up to four or five stories tall. We just need to money to make it happen!
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/FortWashingtonWayCaps2.jpg
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/FortWashingtonWayCaps1.jpg
Source: http://www.urbancincy.com/2010/07/fort-washington-way-caps-to-provide-valuable-real-estate/

The 3 red squares and the 1 green square on the top in the last photo are the planned caps over the highway, and the rest is the Banks development.

[natiboy]

OMG! That's massive!

I know! It was such a huge eyesore. Thank God it's finally being redeveloped!

[natiboy]

Here are a couple updates on a possible new tower.

In my first post, I hinted that a company was interested in building a new headquarters at either the Banks or at 5th and Race. The company is DunnhumbyUSA. They built a new headquarters a year and a half ago and have already outgrown the space. The company has 515 employees now, and has stated that by 2014 they will have 700 employees.
Source: http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20120111/BIZ/301110159

According to this next article, the developer of the Banks is prepared to build a tower of up to 30-stories. If this happens, it will be the closest highrise to the river, and would really change the skyline.
Source:http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20120116/BIZ/301160115/City-county-spar-over-dunnhumby-site?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGE

[Dale]

Wow! would zoning allow for that ?

[natiboy]

Good question. I'm not really sure. I'll have to look into it.

This was just announced today:

Ruth's Chris Steakhouse coming to the Banks!
http://www.urbancincy.com/2012/01/ruths-chris-steak-house-signs-on-at-the-banks/

[Hayward]

The lofts are finished. The first tenants moved in in September, and I've been told there are only a few units left!

Damn! That went fast.

If I wasn't living in Chicago right now, I'd be living in Cincinnati. I love this city.

[undisclosed]

I think Cincinnati missed an absolutely incredible opportunity to engage with some of the world's greatest architects to design something truly unique for Cincinnati's Riverfront, Zaha Hadid designed the Contemporary Arts Center 4 blocks to the north, you couldn't swing her by the riverfront at all?

[GatorHater]

I was in Cincinnati last month on my move up to Ohio. I made it a point to stop in this amazing city. I love what is happening down at the riverfront (the Moerlein Lager House looks great) and the riverfront park is going to be awesome. I couldn't get enough of Over The Rhine and really wanted to see the other neighborhoods in the city. I have some friends that go to UC and will have to visit then. I was just down in Athens at OU this past weekend and was half tempted to visit Cincy. Lots of great projects happening in the city right now. Mercer Commons and the streetcar are going to be a great way to start 2012!

[natiboy]

Glad you liked everything Hayward and Gatorhead:tup: The city is making a ton of progress.

I think Cincinnati missed an absolutely incredible opportunity to engage with some of the world's greatest architects to design something truly unique for Cincinnati's Riverfront, Zaha Hadid designed the Contemporary Arts Center 4 blocks to the north, you couldn't swing her by the riverfront at all?

I am holding my breath that if this tower goes through at the Banks, they will redesign it and really make it an icon for the city, similar to the way the Ascent become Covington's landmark tower. It is in the perfect location for it. This company that is looking into the space is supposed to be known for it's unique and modern workspaces, so I think a redesign is definitely possible.

[natiboy]

As of today, the residential portion of the first phase of the Banks project is 100% occupied.

Here is a good article about the first phase:
http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20120118/BIZ/301180139/Banks-an-eclectic-mix-?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGE

[undisclosed]

^ I think a building's interior decor doesn't always dictate the look of a building architecturally. I just wish they would build into the core of Cincinnati or along the skyline of Fort Washington Way, why put thirty stories in the middle of two stadiums and next to the Freedom Center, it just seems a little stagnant to me? I see some division in the city with FWW even if it was covered, the grid doesn't match up.

[natiboy]

I agree that a 30-story tower may be a little out of place there (from some angles). I the caps will make a big difference though once 4-5 story buildings are built on top. Even if the grid doesn't match up, not being able to see the highway when looking down the North/South streets will really help reconnect the area to downtown.

[shakman]

Yes, I believe that is the site. Here is a photo of the construction site, with I-71 in the foreground.

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/1ffd5506d7190d68d029af13e690155c8.jpg
Source: http://www.ongo.com/v/1139184/-1/AC1F0F6362F760C9/cincinnati-casino-back-on-track

Also, the casino is much further along than this, for those who are not familiar with the site.

That is it. Thanks for the clarification.

[natiboy]

You're welcome. I'm glad to fnally see that gap being filled.

The casino district plan was just approved. Here is the entire plan.

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/36633217/CPC%20Item/Item%202b.pdf

[Johnny Ryall]

1.Great American Tower at Queen City Square
Cost: $322 million

This is Cincinnati’s new tallest building. It was completed in the spring of 2011, and is 660 feet tall. Tenants include Great American Insurance Company, Great American Financial Resources, Frost Brown Todd, JPMorgan, KeyBank, Fort Washington Investment Advisors, IFS Financial Services, Analytic Partners, Lafayette Life, and Capital Analysts.
Source: http://www.queencitysquare.com/tenants.php
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/QCS.jpg
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/NewCincinnatiSkyline.jpg
Photo taken by: Aaron Davidson
http://www.flickr.com/photos/aarondavidson/

That scraper is so unique & classy and I love the spire/ crown. Its' design will not date. Literally, one of the best looking buildings to be completed in the U.S. in recent years IMO.

[natiboy]

^Glad you like it!

There were a lot of mixed feelings about it here in Cincinnati, but I think people are finally starting to warm up to it. I love the way it is lit. You can see it from over 20 miles away in some places.

[GatorHater]

^Glad you like it!

There were a lot of mixed feelings about it here in Cincinnati, but I think people are finally starting to warm up to it. I love the way it is lit. You can see it from over 20 miles away in some places.

I think the little touches that have been added over time to the tower since it topped out have added a lot to it.

About the tower at The Banks. Don't you think a 30 story tower will be too high there? 15 stories sounds decent, but anything else would ruin the view of the actual start of the CBD. I think the new riverfront park and Banks will be a nice step-up to the skyline itself, a nice "front yard" so to speak. Plus, with all the businesses moving downtown and Cincy's huge fortune 500 corporate footprint, a 30 story tower would look great at the highly popular 5th and race spot (that's the right spot, right?).

Anyway, hope you don't mind if I add to your thread...

Looks like the already popular Banks is bringing back the Bengals:

http://cincinnati.com/blogs/bengals/2012/01/20/bengals-will-train-at-pbs-in-2012/

[natiboy]

^I'm torn as far as the location goes. I think putting it at the Banks would really add to the momentum there, but I think a 30-story tower would look better at 5th and Race. I guess we'll just have to wait and see.

And thanks for posting the link. You beat me too it!

[natiboy]

I forgot to post this one.

Western & Southern eyes big Broadway development
http://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/print-edition/2012/01/13/western-southern-eyes-big-broadway.html

Western and Southern, who was the developer of Queen City Square, owns a lot of property in SE downtown. Back in 2010, they stated that they were planning up to three more towers in the area. The site mentioned in the article was supposed to be the site of one of those residential towers.

Here's hoping for another big announcement!

[natiboy]

I forgot to post this one.

Western & Southern eyes big Broadway development
http://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/print-edition/2012/01/13/western-southern-eyes-big-broadway.html

Western and Southern, who was the developer of Queen City Square, owns a lot of property in SE downtown. Back in 2010, they stated that they were planning up to three more towers in the area. The site mentioned in the article was supposed to be the site of one of those residential towers.

Here's hoping for another big announcement!


There's a rumor going around that Western and Southern might actually be considering building a new headquarters on this site. And from comments made by the company and CEO over the past couple of years, it could be a tall one.

[Dale]

Fantastic to finally get some regular reportage on Cincy! It's one of my favorite cities and it sounds like things are coming around in a big way!

[natiboy]

Also, U Square at the Loop broke ground today!

Clifton's 'U Square' Project Finally Breaks Ground

http://www.wlwt.com/news/30298683/detail.html

[natiboy]

Fantastic to finally get some regular reportage on Cincy! It's one of my favorite cities and it sounds like things are coming around in a big way!

I'm just glad there's some interest. Thanks for checking out the thread:tup:

[ColDayMan]

Keep the coming. Clearly, I'm lazy ;).

[Wheelingman04]

Im liking this thread:tup:

[natiboy]

Im liking this thread:tup:

Thanks, keep checking back!

In the news today:

DHL plans $47M Cincinnati airport expansion

"Shipping giant DHL Express USA Inc. is planning a large expansion that would add more than 280 workers to its air-hub operations at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport."

http://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/news/2012/01/26/dhl-plans-47m-cincinnati-airport.html

[natiboy]

This is bad news:

A floor has collapsed at the construction site of the Horshoe Casino in Cincinnati. Early reports say 9 workers were seriously injured.

Update: 911 calls convey chaos
http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20120127/NEWS/301270041/


This is really strange. Just a few months ago a floor collapsed at the Cleveland casino that is also under construction.

[natiboy]

Old Enquirer building on Vine gets sales push from CBRE

This development has been a long time coming. It will be in what was the old Cincinnati Enquirer building. Original plans in 2004 called for a $32 million dollar renovation and conversion into a condo building. Looks like a plan is still in the works.

http://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/print-edition/2012/01/27/old-enquirer-building-on-vine-gets.html

Here's some pictures:
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/CincinnatiEnquirerBuilding.jpg
Photo from: http://cincinnativiews.net/newspapers.htm

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/CincinnatiEnquirerBuildingLobby.jpg
Photo from: http://freeimagefinder.com/detail/5911673253.html

More info and pictures at Emporis: http://www.emporis.com/building/617vinestreet-cincinnati-oh-usa

[natiboy]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PAObXNHHKfg

Here is an update on the Riverfront Park!

Highlights:
1. The Moerlein Lager House opens on Feb. 27th
2. Phase 1 of the park opens on May 18th
3. Construction of Phase 2 will start this fall
4, Construction of the boat docks starts in spring of 2013!

[GatorHater]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PAObXNHHKfg

Here is an update on the Riverfront Park!

Highlights:
1. The Moerlein Lager House opens on Feb. 27th
2. Phase 1 of the park opens on May 18th
3. Construction of Phase 2 will start this fall
4, Construction of the boat docks starts in spring of 2013!

I thought the boat docks/marina was just for rendering purposes to add something to the design. I was going to ask if they actually were going to be built which is pretty awesome! So The Banks will actually meet up with riverfront parks to the east?

[natiboy]

I thought the boat docks/marina was just for rendering purposes to add something to the design. I was going to ask if they actually were going to be built which is pretty awesome! So The Banks will actually meet up with riverfront parks to the east?

That's what I thought too, so I was surprised/thrilled to hear that they will actually be built!

And as far as I know, the pan is for this park will link up with Sawyer Point and the other riverfront parks on the east side of downtown. But looking at google maps, there is an existing parking lot that will have to be turned into a park if they are to connect. At the very least, bike trails will connect all of them.

[natiboy]

Here's a good article on redevelopment efforts in the Walnut Hills neighborhood:

http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20120204/NEWS/302100005/The-renaissance-Walnut-Hills?odyssey=tab

[natiboy]

Looks like utility relocation for the Cincinnati streetcar project could begin any time now:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=basMf4XfiGQ

[natiboy]

Here is a great 2012 development plan for the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood being done by 3CDC. In summary, about 250 residential units and over 30,000 square feet of commercial space will be added in less than two years by 3CDC alone.

http://www.3cdc.org/images/editor/OTR%20workgroup%20-%20Jan%2017%202012%20(NXPowerLite).pdf

[photoLith]

^
That is freakin amazing what they are doing.

[natiboy]

^
That is freakin amazing what they are doing.

Yes it is. They are making monumental improvements to the neighborhood.

I don't know whether it was planned or not, but most of those buildings being restored in Phase 5 will be on the streetcar line.

[natiboy]

DunnhumbyUSA has picked the 5th and Race street location for it's new headquarters!


Cultural fit for dunnhumbyUSA

First culture, and then cost, prompted Monday’s decision by dunnhumbyUSA to construct a new headquarters on the northwest corner of Fifth and Race streets, a city-owned lot that’s been long eyed for redevelopment.

Known for its client list of sought-after brands and retailers, and a young, highly paid workforce, the consumer research and insights company put more weight on the revitalization happening in downtown’s central business district than the multi-millions of dollars in financial incentives offered by county and city leaders.

http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20120206/BIZ01/302060034/


3CDC is developing the site. That, plus the fact that DunnhumbyUSA is known for innovative work spaces, hopefully means that we will get a very unique building on the site. The site will likely include underground parking and retail space. Old 3CDC plans for the site called for two residential towers, so hopefully that will find its way into the plan as well.

[Dale]

Cincy's on a roll! Sounds like it'll be squatty though.

[natiboy]

Cincy's on a roll! Sounds like it'll be squatty though.

Yeah, I'm a little worried about that part of the article.... I am holding out hope though. Apparently 3CDC has done several site studies, and each has invisioned two separate towers on the site. Maybe if the headquarters is built using the large floor plates, a residential tower could be built on top. I guess we'll just have to wait for more details.

[natiboy]

Cincinnati may soon be powered by 100% renewable energy

Cincinnati is working on a new power aggregation deal right now that could lead to the entire city being powered from 100 percent renewable energy sources. The deal, city officials say, could be finalized within the coming months and be in place for consumers by summer 2012.

Such a move would make Cincinnati the largest city in the United States to have its energy supply come from 100 percent renewable sources, and it might be accomplished without any significant cost difference for ratepayers.

Source: http://www.urbancincy.com/2012/02/cincinnati-may-be-powered-by-100-renewable-energy-by-summer-2012/

[natiboy]

Site prep is finished for the Mercer Commons development in Over-the-Rhine. Construction should start soon.

Here is a better rendering of the Vine Street building:

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/MercerCommons-VineStreet.jpg
Source: http://www.3cdc.org/follow-our-projects/mercer-commons/

[natiboy]

Cincinnati Streetcar Official Groundbreaking

February 17th in front of Memorial Hall in Over-the-Rhine

I will post an article as soon as one is released!!!!!!

[Dale]

Woot! The l-o-n-g wait is over.

[natiboy]

Streetcar work to start Feb. 17

The city of Cincinnati plans to break ground on the $110 million streetcar project on Feb. 17, Mayor Mark Mallory said today.

Mallory made the announcement at a special City Council meeting where the status and cost of the riverfront-to-Over-the-Rhine streetcar route was discussed.

The groundbreaking will be at 1 p.m. Feb. 17 at Memorial Hall in Over-the-Rhine, Mallory said.

http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20120210/NEWS/302100179/Mallory-announces-streetcar-groundbreaking?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGE

[natiboy]

^ I'm just so excited this project is going foward I thought I would share this promotional video!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9aYQrMoRjrc&feature=g-all-u&context=G253ccabFAAAAAAAAJAA

[natiboy]

Kao to move HQ downtown

Kao USA plans to move its headquarters staff from Spring Grove Avenue to downtown and create about 50 new jobs.
.....
The exact downtown location where the administrative jobs will be moving wasn’t revealed because the company hasn’t signed a lease yet. But real estate sources said Kao has been looking for 40,000 to 60,000 square feet of downtown office space.

http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20120213/BIZ/302130142/Kao-move-HQ-downtown?odyssey=mod%7Cnewswell%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE%7Cs

[llamaorama]

Kao makes jergens, etc.

Is there some sort of clustering effect of companies that manufacture or sell consumable domestic goods in Cincinnati? I know Kroger Corp, which owns like every traditional grocery chain in the country, is headquartered downtown.

[natiboy]

Kao makes jergens, etc.

Is there some sort of clustering effect of companies that manufacture or sell consumable domestic goods in Cincinnati? I know Kroger Corp, which owns like every traditional grocery chain in the country, is headquartered downtown.

Yeah, Cincinnati has quite a few of those types of companies. Cincinnati was designated as the "Hub of Innovation and Opportunity in the area of Consumer Marketing" for the state of Ohio. We have Proctor and Gamble, Kroger, Macy's, Kao, Totes, LPK, and many others.

[natiboy]

Looks like Covington Kentucky is planning a riverfront development project of its own.

Covington receives 3 proposals for riverfront development project

Two proposals were in response to a request for proposals the city issued in late November for a project area at the north end of Madison Avenue. One of the two respondants submitted a third proposal for a project in the area of the earthen levee west of Madison Place off Rivercenter Boulevard.

"The city is truly excited to see the interest shown in doing riverfront projects in the community along the Ohio River," said Covington Mayor Chuck Scheper. "These opportunities certainly raise the bar for our Covington riverfront vision as we seek to highlight and underscore development opportunities in the city that will lead to significant growth."
Source: http://www.fox19.com/story/16952034/covington-receives-3-proposals-for-riverfront-development-project

The projects include a proposed 28-story mixed use tower, marinas, wharfs, hotels, and landscaping improvements.

[ColDayMan]

It needs it. Newport and Bellevue are killing it.

[ColDayMan]

And in other (quiet, shhhh) news, the Cincinnati Streetcar broke ground today with Ray LaHood.

[natiboy]

And in other (quiet, shhhh) news, the Cincinnati Streetcar broke ground today with Ray LaHood.

I'm so glad it's finally happening!

Streetcar project breaks ground

OVER-THE-RHINE - — After years in the making, the city of Cincinnati broke ground today on the the $110 million street car project.

The event was held at Memorial Hall this afternoon.

The nation’s transportation secretary, Ray LaHood, attended along Mayor Mark Mallory and City Manager Milton Dohoney.

Upon completion, the streetcar will snake 3.6 miles from Riverfront into Over-the-Rhine, connecting the Banks to Findlay Market.

The first phase of construction will include the relocation of water lines in city streets.
Source: http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20120217/NEWS/302170045/Streetcar-project-breaks-ground-today?odyssey=tab%7Cmostpopular%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE

PS: In typical Enquirer fashion, the map in the article is incorrect. The streetcar will extend down to 2nd street.

[natiboy]

Dunnhumby documents reveal possible downtown Kroger
DOWNTOWN — The city of Cincinnati has opened its books on a pending deal that’s likely to bring 1,000 dunnhumbyUSA workers, 40,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space and up to 1,000 parking spaces to the long-anticipated Fifth and Race development.

It could also bring the central business district its first Kroger grocery store and up to 130 residential units.

City documents provided to the Enquirer reveal a plan for a mid-rise building for the consumer insights firm at Fifth and Race, and at Sixth and Race, residential units atop an above-ground parking garage. The two buildings would sit above underground parking and be connected by street-level retail. And one document shows a potential smaller-format test grocery store for Kroger.
Source: http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20120217/BIZ/302180006/Documents-reveal-dunnhumby-mid-rise-possible-downtown-Kroger?odyssey=tab

[Dale]

What's the current completion date for the streetcar ?

[natiboy]

What's the current completion date for the streetcar ?

I believe they are still shooting for the end of 2013. I'll check around for an updated date and post it here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bndDU0oIKHg&feature=player_embedded&list=PL78C57533AAA6402B

[Dale]

Thanks! Next year would be fast!

[natiboy]

Thanks! Next year would be fast!

It is actually early 2014. Here is an updated Enquirer article:

http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20120217/NEWS/302170045/Streetcar-project-breaks-ground-?odyssey=tab%7Cmostpopular%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE

[Dale]

It is actually early 2014. Here is an updated Enquirer article:

http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20120217/NEWS/302170045/Streetcar-project-breaks-ground-?odyssey=tab%7Cmostpopular%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE

Still pretty fast. Not far off the original timeline.

[natiboy]

Still pretty fast. Not far off the original timeline.

Which is pretty impressive, considering all of the whack job opposition to the streetcar in Cincy. The article says the actual rails should start being installed late this year!

[Dale]

Which is pretty impressive, considering all of the whack job opposition to the streetcar in Cincy. The article says the actual rails should start being installed late this year!

I'm going to have to schedule me a little jaunt to Cincy. Maybe Spring of 2014.

[natiboy]

I'm going to have to schedule me a little jaunt to Cincy. Maybe Spring of 2014.

:tup: Have you ever been here before?

[Dale]

:tup: Have you ever been here before?

Yes, too briefly however. And it was back in the early 90's. I'm anxious to see how much it's changed. I say Spring 2014 because the streetcar and most of the other major projects will be done by then.

[natiboy]

Yes, too briefly however. And it was back in the early 90's. I'm anxious to see how much it's changed. I say Spring 2014 because the streetcar and most of the other major projects will be done by then.

It will definitely look a lot different! Hopefully more major developments will come out of the woodwork before then as well. Until then, I'll definitely be posting occasional construction pics!

[Dale]

It will definitely look a lot different! Hopefully more major developments will come out of the woodwork before then as well. Until then, I'll definitely be posting occasional construction pics!

You're doing a great job!

[natiboy]

And so begins construction of the Cincinnati Streetcar!!!!

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/Firststreetcarconstructionpic.jpg

Photo by Cygnus at the Urban Ohio forum.

:upload_71700:

[Kingofthehill]

Heh, maybe I, too, will visit when the streetcar opens! That said, great news. I have always hated the fact that there are dense, old, functionally urban cities in the Midwest that are completely devoid of non-bus mass transit. Hopefully this will be a trend that continues!

[Hayward]

And so begins construction of the Cincinnati Streetcar!!!!

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/Firststreetcarconstructionpic.jpg

Photo by Cygnus at the Urban Ohio forum.

:upload_71700:

I can't believe it's actually happening.

[natiboy]

I can't believe it's actually happening.

It's been a long time coming for sure. I think all of us Cincy streetcar supporters breathed a sigh of relief on monday when everything started.

Hope you all will be able to make it to Cincy to ride it when it opens!

By the way, all of the cobblestones on Elm Street in front of Music Hall will be put back in place after the tracks are installed. It should look very European!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qKQYifNbmnc&feature=g-all-u&context=G26f70f0FAAAAAAAAAAA

[goat314]

I'm so proud of Cincy! Welcome to the Midwest rail transit club :cheers:
Chicago, Cleveland, Minneapolis, and St. Louis. Now Cincy! We need to get KC, Indy, and Detroit on board.

[natiboy]

I'm so proud of Cincy! Welcome to the Midwest rail transit club :cheers:
Chicago, Cleveland, Minneapolis, and St. Louis. Now Cincy! We need to get KC, Indy, and Detroit on board.

Well said! I'm still counting down the days until Ohio gets a new Governor, and we can get back to planning the Cincinnati/Dayton/Columbus/Cleveland inter-city rail... Rail from Cincinnati to Chicago via Indy would be amazing too.


I don't think I mentioned it, but Cincinnati and Hamilton county are apparently still planning a commuter rail line from downtown out to the eastern suburbs. The plan is controversial among area rail transit supporters, because there is a better route (an abandoned freight rail line) that could be used instead of the one that is being planned.

Here is a good article on the subject:
http://www.urbancincy.com/2010/08/breaking-down-cincinnatis-eastern-corridor-passenger-rail-plan/

[natiboy]

The Moerlein Lager House is finished!

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/MoerleinLagerHouse.jpg
Source: http://www.700wlw.com/cc-common/gallery/photos.html?album_id=309975#/0/18759655

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/MoerleinLagerHouseView.jpg
Source: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.178598712251567.35289.116212398490199&type=3

What a view!!! Opening night is on monday. I have a feeling this will quickly become the most popular restaurant in the Cincinnati area.

[Downtown Bolivar]

Can't wait to come to Cincinatti to run the Flying Pig! Things are looking great there!

[natiboy]

It will be great to see so many projects coming together in the coming months!

And just in time for the 2012 World Choir Games. It will be the largest global event that Cincinnati has ever hosted.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7kSBLNEZFo

[natiboy]

It looks like Cincinnati is pursuing a parking program for the Uptown neighborhood that is similar to the one in San Francisco.

Uptown neighborhoods looking to reform on-street parking policies

The streets of Clifton Heights, University Heights, and Fairview (CUF) are becoming more congested each year. As the University of Cincinnati (UC) enrollment increases, it has become a struggle to provide enough housing units and places to store automobiles.

This growing population shines light on a problem CUF has struggled with for more than 30 years. It is hard not to notice that Cincinnati’s urban core is on the up-and-up, and the work that organizations like the Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation (3CDC) and OTR A.D.O.P.T. are doing in Over-the-Rhine is making the area more attractive to young professionals, artists, students, and even some older suburbanite emigres. And this is a trend that seems poised to continue as gasoline prices continue to rise.

.....

http://www.urbancincy.com/2012/02/uptown-neighborhoods-looking-to-reform-on-street-parking-policies/

[goat314]

Well said! I'm still counting down the days until Ohio gets a new Governor, and we can get back to planning the Cincinnati/Dayton/Columbus/Cleveland inter-city rail... Rail from Cincinnati to Chicago via Indy would be amazing too.


I don't think I mentioned it, but Cincinnati and Hamilton county are apparently still planning a commuter rail line from downtown out to the eastern suburbs. The plan is controversial among area rail transit supporters, because there is a better route (an abandoned freight rail line) that could be used instead of the one that is being planned.

Here is a good article on the subject:
http://www.urbancincy.com/2010/08/breaking-down-cincinnatis-eastern-corridor-passenger-rail-plan/

Cool! St. Louis got its start with light rail by running it in abandoned rail R.O.W. With the 2nd line we got elevated and more subway segments. Why are they planning commuter rail? They should just use the abandoned freight line and start a light rail system like St. Louis. St. Louis and Cincinnati are very comparable. Light rail has been a big success in St. Louis, no reason Cincy couldn't do the same.

[natiboy]

Cool! St. Louis got its start with light rail by running it in abandoned rail R.O.W. With the 2nd line we got elevated and more subway segments. Why are they planning commuter rail? They should just use the abandoned freight line and start a light rail system like St. Louis. St. Louis and Cincinnati are very comparable. Light rail has been a big success in St. Louis, no reason Cincy couldn't do the same.

The commuter rail is the county commisioner's pet project. It's a really stupid plan. The tracks run right along the river in the flood plane, so there isn't much developable land or enough population to support the line along the route.

Running light rail along the Wasson corridor through the East side would serve some of Cincinnati's most dense/popular neighborhoods along with Xavier University, so that would be a much better option. But now, there is a plan to turn that corridor into a bike path, and rail bank the tracks for future rail use. I am afraid though, that if the trail is built and is there for a while, people won't want to give it up when we want to build rail.

http://www.urbancincy.com/2012/02/cincinnatis-wasson-rail-corridor-should-not-be-converted-into-recreational-trail/

[natiboy]

OTR townhouses sold out before completion

Twelve new townhouses being built in the 1400 block of Pleasant Street in Over-The-Rhine, as the final phase of City Home Cincinnati are already sold out, and the company behind the transformation has left its surburban roots to build new ones in the city's urban core.
http://www.soapboxmedia.com/devnews/022812schickel.aspx


http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/CityHome.jpg
Source: http://www.schickeldesign.com/City_Home_Cincinnati_Ohio.shtml

[natiboy]

Construction permits were filed last week for Mercer Commons. Hopefully construction will start soon!

http://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/bldginsp/downloads/bldginsp_eps45248.pdf

[natiboy]

According to Cincinnati's mayor in this video, Phase 2 of the Banks project will begin within the next couple of weeks.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=YLwHp4aFp50

[natiboy]

Plans have resurfaced to turn the old St. George Catholic Church into a boutique hotel. The old church is near the University of Cincinnati. It's twin spires were iconic, and could be seen from miles around.

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/StGeorgeChurch.jpg
Source: http://queencitysurvey.blogspot.com/2009/04/historic-catholic-churches-of_19.html

A fire a few years ago destroyed both of its spires. Plans for the church include a complete restoration of the church (including the spires) and a new building in an empty parking lot next door.

Plan to convert Old St. George into boutique hotel gets new life.....
Shafran has been working since 2008 with veteran Cincinnati developer Doug Hine on the $22 million renovation. Old St. George is an iconic Clifton Heights church and monastery, designed by renowned architect Samuel Hannaford and dedicated in 1874. The church closed in 1993 as part of a three-parish merger.

Hine said the project involves “a museum-quality restoration” of the property, including the reconstruction of its twin spires, damaged in a 2008 fire.
.....
Source: http://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/print-edition/2012/03/09/plan-to-convert-old-st-george-into.html?ana=e_ph&page=all


Old St. George Church hotel design calls for ‘wing’
The conversion of Old St. George into a boutique hotel will involve new construction as well as historic preservation.

“If you’re standing in front of the church, to your right or to the east is a parking lot,” said developer Doug Hine. “We’ll build a wing of rooms on that parking lot, with a courtyard in between.”
.....
Source: http://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/print-edition/2012/03/09/old-st-george-church-hotel-design.html?ana=e_ph

[natiboy]

Here is the spring update for the Smale Riverfront Park. It's really coming along. The park opens to the public on May 18th.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVg6yZwva4w&feature=g-all-u&context=G26f70f0FAAAAAAAAAAA

Also, the Moerlein Lager House has been open for a couple weeks now and has been extremely successful. They have a 2 hour wait most nights, and they did over $900,000 in sales in the first week of operations.

[SpiderTre]

i'm loving the project renders and how much development they have planned around the city! can't wait til it's finished :]

[natiboy]

Downtown Cincinnati poised for surge of residential conversions

Developers are in the process of transforming the 85-year-old Federal Reserve Tower at Fourth and Race into 88 apartments after serving as an office structure for its entire life. The process is one being undertaken in old cities all across the United States – transforming old office buildings into unique residences.

In addition to the Federal Reserve Tower, the 86-year-old Enquirer Building on Vine Street has also had an apartment conversion planned. In the wake of the opening of the Great American Tower at Queen City Square, there appears to be many more candidates ripe for such conversion.

.....

According to DCI officials, developers have expressed interest in converting additional historic office towers into residences, but declined to comment as to which structures or which developers are expressing interest.
Source: http://www.urbancincy.com/2012/03/downtown-cincinnati-poised-for-surge-of-residential-conversions/#comments

[Dale]

Downtown Cincy is really setting the table very nicely. All the ingredients are coming to fruition.

[natiboy]

Downtown Cincy is really setting the table very nicely. All the ingredients are coming to fruition.

It's definitely an exciting time in Cincinnati. We could have a few towers going up in the city very soon, our neighborhoods are repopulating and crime is WAY down. I don't know what the current number is, but as of two weeks ago Cincy had only 6 murders for the year, which is a huge improvement. Over-the-Rhine was ranked one of the most dangerous cities in the US just a few years ago, and it was reported today that there hasn't been a murder there since September. Things are definitely looking up.

By the way, new details are starting to come out about Dunnhumby's new headquarters. 3CDC was supposed to be the main developer, but apparently several more have come forward and want to be a part of the project. Residential is supposed definitely be a part of the project.

Here is an article from today. The price stated in the article seems very low to me though.

dunnhumby incentive plan detailed
DOWNTOWN — Cincinnati City Council will decide Wednesday whether to award up to $12 million in tax incentives to help growing consumer insights firm dunnhumbyUSA build a new $36 million headquarters at Fifth and Race streets.

.....

It’s unclear whether the $36 million price tag includes 3CDC’s portion of the project. 3CDC has said it could use a combination of its own development funds, federal new markets tax credits, tax increment financing and traditional bank financing to fund the project. It has yet to submit development plans to the city.
Source: http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20120319/BIZ/303190132/dunnhumby-incentive-plan-detailed?odyssey=tab

[Dale]

Any more news on the rumored tower for The Banks ?

[natiboy]

Any more news on the rumored tower for The Banks ?

Nope. Nothing yet. The pad for the tower is there, but no news yet on a tennant. I'll definitely post as soon as some news comes out.

[natiboy]

Clifton project a sign of times for University of Cincinnati campus housing
After years of talk about developing the Uptown Crossings site in Clifton, there’s suddenly a burst of activity.

Columbus-based Hallmark Campus Communities is building an $11 million, 92-unit student housing project along Jefferson Avenue. Dubbed “University Edge,” it’s near the University of Cincinnati’s main campus.

The fully furnished apartments will include 232 beds in a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom units. The company also acquired an adjacent parcel at the corner of Jefferson and Ruther avenues for a second phase of 28 four-bedroom units, or 112 additional beds. No dollar figure was available for that phase.
http://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/print-edition/2012/03/16/clifton-project-a-sign-of-times-for.html?page=all

[natiboy]

Cincinnati Children’s eyes new research tower

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/Childrens_hosptower.jpg

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center might build a research tower on its main campus in Avondale that would be similar to the 11-story, $116 million facility it completed in 2007, sources told the Business Courier.

The tower would push the hospital’s research space to nearly 1.5 million square feet. The research footprint, at about 1 million square feet across six buildings, is already among the largest of any U.S. pediatric hospital. Construction could begin this year, sources familiar with the project said.

“It’s going to happen,” said one source, who did not want to be named.
Source: http://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/print-edition/2012/03/23/cincinnati-childrens-eyes-new.html

[natiboy]

Just some random streetcar news I read today over on UrbanOhio...

1. Utility relocation is complete for about three blocks on Elm Street.

2. Rolling stock should be selected within the next 3 weeks.

3. Cincinnati is in the process of applying for a grant which will be used to study route alternatives for the Uptown circulator streetcar extension.

[natiboy]

Kao USA moving headquarters to 312 Plum

Kao USA Inc. has picked the 312 Plum Building as its new corporate headquarters.

The owner of the downtown Cincinnati office building, a joint venture between Nashville-based Smith/Hallemann Partners and Harbert Management Corp ., signed a long-term lease with Kao USA, according to a news release. The beauty care manufacturer will relocate its corporate headquarters and occupy 55,000 square feet of space, taking the entire 10th and 11th floors and a portion of the ninth floor.
Source: http://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/news/2012/03/28/kao-usa-moving-headquarters-to-312-plum.html

[natiboy]

Here is a cool proposal that became public the other day.

City considers Eden Park station for micro-brewery
The city of Cincinnati is investigating whether a 118-year-old red brick pump station and water tower behind Krohn Conservatory could be sold and converted to a micro-brewery.

A pair of developers recently approached the city to redevelop the 7,000-square-foot property, which was designed by renowned architect Samuel Hannaford to enhance the park landscape. It’s on the National Register of Historic Places.
Source: http://cincinnati.com/blogs/developingnow/2012/03/28/city-considers-eden-park-station-for-micro-brewery/

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m575/natiboy1/250px-EdenParkStationNo7.jpg
Photo Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eden_Park_Station_No._7