Future of The Banks: Cincinnati Riverfront Development Unveiled
Cincinnati’s downtown riverfront district, The Banks, is on the cusp of its final transformative phase. City and Hamilton County officials are scheduled to receive the inaugural presentation of an ambitious new development plan, aiming to breathe new life into five currently underutilized parcels. This initiative promises to further solidify The Banks as a premier destination for both residents and visitors.
Revitalizing Cincinnati’s Premier Riverfront District
The Banks has long been a vibrant hub, especially on game days and for events, but five specific parcels near Paycor Stadium have remained vacant and underutilized. According to The Banks Public Partnership, the driving force behind this update, these areas present a unique opportunity for strategic private development. The vision is clear: to enhance economic impact, cultivate an even more dynamic and lively atmosphere, and establish a clearer identity for the entire district.
This isn’t just about filling empty spaces; it’s a coordinated effort to move “beyond piecemeal progress toward a coordinated, forward-looking strategy that completes The Banks as a connected, vibrant, and beloved destination,” as articulated by The Banks Public Partnership. It’s about ensuring the riverfront evolves into a cohesive and truly integrated part of Cincinnati’s urban landscape, appealing to families, tourists, and locals alike.
The Minds Behind the Master Plan
The task of designing this crucial final phase has been entrusted to two leading firms: Perkins&Will and MKSK. These expert teams have crafted a comprehensive proposal that will be presented to key decision-makers. On Tuesday, November 19, 2025, the new plan will first be reviewed at the Hamilton County Commissioners meeting at 10 a.m. Later that same day, City Council’s Equitable Growth and Housing Committee will hold its own review at 1 p.m., marking a significant step forward in the approval process.
Collaborative Leadership: Who’s At The Table?
The ownership and future of these five parcels are a collaborative effort involving various public and private stakeholders. Cincinnati City Council and the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners hold direct control, with notable input from the Cincinnati Bengals and Cincinnati Reds ownership groups. Further guidance and oversight come from a robust network of committees:
| Group | Key Participants |
|---|---|
| The Steering Committee | The Banks Partnership, City of Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Cincinnati Reds, Cincinnati Bengals |
| The District Advisory Group | Cincinnati Park Board, Downtown Residents Council, National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Banks New Community Authority, Heritage Bank Center/Arena Management Holdings LLC, The Brady/ICON Festival Stage – Music & Event Management, Inc., NAI Hiffman/Hiffman National, Pyramid Global Hospitality Group – AC Hotel, Crawford Hoying and Anderson Real Estate (landowner), Lincoln Property Company (landowner), Eagle Realty Group (landowner) |
Project Timeline: Phases of Development
The journey to complete The Banks is structured into distinct phases. Currently, the project is immersed in Phase 1, the crucial planning stage. This involves a thorough analysis to identify what elements of The Banks are currently succeeding, what aspects could be improved, and—critically—what new factors could significantly increase foot traffic and community engagement. The Banks Public Partnership is working diligently to finalize this initial planning phase by the end of the current year.
Once a master plan receives approval, the project will advance to Phase 2. This subsequent stage focuses on the formal adoption of the updated Banks plan as a zoning amendment. Both the Cincinnati City Planning Commission and City Council will play vital roles in reviewing and accepting this amendment, which is initiated by Hamilton County. Phase 2 is targeted for completion by February 2026, paving the way for the physical realization of the new vision.
Cincinnatians Speak: Desired Additions to The Banks
Public opinion is a powerful driver in the development of The Banks. Through various polls, The Banks Public Partnership has actively solicited feedback from Cincinnati residents regarding desired attractions that would encourage more frequent visits to the district. The responses highlight a desire for a mix of practical amenities and engaging entertainment, including:
- Additional coffee shops and bakeries, offering more casual dining and hangout spots.
- Essential services like a dry cleaners, shoe repair store, or a pharmacy for everyday convenience.
- Experiential entertainment businesses, such as a local version of The Escape Game, to draw diverse crowds.
- A marina, capitalizing on the riverfront location for recreational boating and activities.
- New and/or different dining options, expanding the culinary landscape of The Banks.
- A ferris wheel, providing a unique landmark and panoramic views of the city and river.
- More civic events, including festivals, community walks and races, or an outdoor theater, fostering a strong community atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Banks Redevelopment
- What is the primary goal of this new development plan for The Banks?
The main goal is to revitalize five underutilized parcels near the riverfront, enhancing economic impact, creating a more vibrant area, and establishing The Banks as a coordinated, beloved destination for families and tourists. - Which design firms are involved in shaping the future of The Banks?
Perkins&Will and MKSK are the two leading design firms selected to develop the new master plan for The Banks. - When will Cincinnati officials get a first look at the proposed plan?
City and county leaders will review the plan on Tuesday, November 19, 2025, with presentations at the Hamilton County Commissioners meeting (10 a.m.) and City Council’s Equitable Growth and Housing Committee (1 p.m.). - What is the estimated timeline for the project’s key phases?
Phase 1, the planning process, is expected to conclude by the end of 2025. Phase 2, which includes formally adopting the zoning amendment, is targeted for completion by February 2026. - How will public input be incorporated into the development?
Public polls have gathered residents’ preferences for new attractions, such as coffee shops, unique dining, experiential entertainment, a marina, and civic events, all of which are being considered to shape the final plan.
As Cincinnati looks ahead to the completion of The Banks, this development represents a significant step towards a more connected and dynamic riverfront. Keep an eye on local news for further updates and opportunities to engage as this exciting vision for our city takes shape.
Cincinnati Banks Riverfront New Development Plan
