Discover College Hill Station Property Development Cincinnati

Last Updated on: 1st March 2025, 04:02 am

For over two decades, a vacant site in Cincinnati stood as a reminder of untapped potential. Now, it’s being transformed into a dynamic mixed-use project called College Hill Station. This redevelopment marks a significant milestone for the neighborhood, breathing new life into the area.

The project broke ground on July 17, with heavy machinery rolling in to begin construction. It will feature 171 residential units and commercial spaces, designed to enhance urban connectivity. Innovative elements like faceted windows and dual street-level entries aim to foster vibrant street activity.

This initiative reflects both urban redevelopment and local pride. Community input sessions played a crucial role in shaping the project, ensuring it meets the needs of residents and businesses alike. College Hill Station is more than just a development—it’s a catalyst for growth in Cincinnati.

Key Takeaways

• College Hill Station transforms a long-vacant site into a vibrant mixed-use project.
• The development includes 171 residential units and commercial spaces.
• Innovative design features like faceted windows enhance urban connectivity.
• Community input played a key role in shaping the project.
• This initiative is a catalyst for further growth in the neighborhood.

Project Background and Community Impact

A long-vacant space in the heart of the neighborhood is finally seeing progress. For over 20 years, this site stood as a symbol of missed opportunities. Now, it’s becoming a cornerstone of the area’s revitalization.

Historical Context and Redevelopment Journey

The site’s history is marked by years of inactivity and failed attempts at renewal. Previous plans never gained traction, leaving the community waiting for a breakthrough. This project, however, is different. It’s the result of a partnership between the College Hill Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation (CHCURC) and Pennrose, a leader in community-focused developments¹.

Together, they’ve worked to transform this space into a hub of activity. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to the neighborhood’s future. “This isn’t just about building structures; it’s about building a stronger community,” says a local leader involved in the process.

Community Engagement and Local Pride

From the start, residents played a key role in shaping the project. Monthly meetings allowed community members to voice their ideas and concerns². Their input ensured the development aligns with the neighborhood’s needs and aspirations.

One of the top priorities was creating diverse housing options to attract long-term residents. This focus on inclusivity has been a driving force behind the project’s design. It’s a testament to the pride and vision of the College Hill community.

This initiative is more than just a construction project. It’s a turning point for the neighborhood, blending historical context with modern urban design. As part of the Seymour/Reading Market Area, it contributes to the broader redevelopment efforts in the city Learn more about the Seymour/Reading Market.

College Hill Station Property Development Cincinnati: Innovative Design and Zoning

Innovative design and zoning are at the core of transforming this long-vacant site into a vibrant hub. By leveraging form-based zoning, the project ensures that the built environment aligns with the community’s vision and needs. This approach has allowed for creative solutions, such as flexible zoning parameters to enhance corner retail spaces and diverse residential layouts².

Form-Based Zoning as a Catalyst for Change

Form-based zoning focuses on the physical form of buildings rather than their use. This method has been instrumental in shaping the project’s layout, ensuring it complements the surrounding area. Adjustments to zoning parameters have improved the corner retail environment at Hamilton and North Bend Roads, creating a more dynamic streetscape².

Blaise Durio, a key project team member, highlights the significance of this approach:

“Form-based zoning allows us to create spaces that are not only functional but also visually cohesive with the neighborhood.”

Architectural Features and Facade Innovations

The design incorporates modern twists on traditional elements, such as faceted windows that enhance visual connectivity. These windows, inspired by bay windows, allow more natural light and create a sense of openness. Additionally, façade “folds” break up the building mass, providing scale and context to the structure².

Stefan Cornelis, the lead architect, emphasizes the importance of these features:

“The faceted windows and folded façades not only add aesthetic value but also strengthen the link between the building and the community.”

Pedestrian-friendly first-floor elements and preserved greenspaces further enhance the project’s appeal. Lower parking minimums ensure more space for community interaction, aligning with the broader goal of revitalizing Cincinnati neighborhoods.

Residential and Commercial Features in the Heart of College Hill

The heart of the neighborhood is now home to a blend of modern living and vibrant commerce. This mixed-use project offers a variety of housing options and retail spaces designed to meet the needs of the community. It’s a place where residents can live, work, and thrive.

Diverse Housing Options and Community Amenities

The project includes a range of residential units, from 1- and 2-bedroom apartments to modern townhomes. These homes are designed for families and individuals, offering flexibility and comfort. Contemporary architectural features add a touch of elegance to the neighborhood³.

Community amenities play a key role in fostering a sense of belonging. Fitness centers, dog parks, and meeting rooms encourage interaction among residents. Shared outdoor areas and greenspaces are maintained by a homeowners association, ensuring a well-kept environment for everyone to enjoy.

Retail Spaces and Urban Connectivity

Retail spaces are thoughtfully designed to complement the residential areas. Outdoor seating and walkable streetscapes create a lively atmosphere, perfect for shopping and dining. These spaces are part of a broader effort to enhance urban connectivity and support local businesses⁴.

The project’s design prioritizes pedestrian-friendly elements, making it easy to navigate the area. This careful planning benefits both residents and visitors, creating a seamless blend of modern living and vibrant commerce. It’s a testament to the neighborhood’s ongoing transformation.

Conclusion

The College Hill Station project marks a turning point for the neighborhood, blending innovative design with deep community roots. What began as a long-vacant site has evolved into a dynamic mixed-use hub, offering both residential and commercial opportunities. The $31 million investment reflects the commitment of public and private partners to revitalize the area⁴.

Community engagement has been central to this effort. Key players like CHCURC and Pennrose worked closely with residents to ensure the project aligns with local needs. This collaboration has fostered a sense of pride and ownership among neighbors.

As the project nears completion, it stands as a testament to successful urban redevelopment. It not only redefines the local landscape but also sets a benchmark for future initiatives. The College Hill neighborhood is poised to become an even more vibrant and connected community.

Source Links

1. https://www.pennrose.com/news-views/news/2020/2020-two-pennrose-developments-awarded-housing-tax-credits-in-ohio/
2. https://www.soapboxmedia.com/features/development-beyond-the-basin.aspx
3. https://www.nkythrives.com/features/strong-neighborhoods-make-strong-and-diverse-cities.aspx
4. https://www.soapboxmedia.com/features/sharonville-buys-and-controls-downtown-property.aspx