Cincinnati upzoning plan paves way for revitalized waterfront district

The Cincinnati planning commission approved a zoning change for an area known as The Banks which the city hopes will help revitalize five vacant lots totaling over 8 acres along the riverfront near a major sports stadium.

According to an article by Sydney Franklin in the Cincinnati Enquirer, "The goal is to attract mixed-use buildings with retail, restaurants and bars, hotels and housing, per the plan. Adding more parking on the riverfront is also key for the district."

Franklin explains that the Banks Urban Design Plan Update, the latest masterplan and vision for the area, lays out expectations for future development and suggests "ways to liven up the district's public spaces and enhance connections to the riverfront and Downtown." The plan gives city officials more control over what projects get built there.