The “Scioto Mile” will create a $38 million transformation of the east frontage of the Scioto River as it winds its way through downtown Columbus. The project has two primary features. First is a mile-long walking promenade that will extend from the Arena District on the North to the Galbreath Bicentennial Park on the South, which will include the restoration of the 1920s limestone balustrade, and with decorative lighting, pavilions, benches and other amenities along the route. Bicentennial Park will experience an $18 million overhaul with amazing new fountains that can create geometric designs, a glass-enclosed restaurant, and more. Click here for the website of the Scioto Mile, which has a wealth of information, renderings, etc..
A much larger project is taking place along the banks of the Ohio in downtown Cincinnati. “The Banks” is a massive transformation of eight city blocks of vacant land situated in the middle of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the two large downtown sports venues – the Great American Ball Park and Paul Brown Stadium. On April 2, ground was broken for the first phase of development that will eventually cost at least $800 million. It is a true mixed-use project, with hundreds of new residences planned, as well as millions of square feet of retail and office space. Click here to read a review of the history of this important area in the Queen City, first known as “The Bottoms” (and a list of links to other stories on The Banks), and here for the home page of the project.
Photos: Above - The Scioto Mile/City of Columbus ; Below - The Banks/Port of Greater Cincinnati Development Authority