Northern Kentucky Development News

[CVG]

Since the Cincinnati development thread is pretty much dead on the Midwest forum I figured I would start an NKY one over here. Plenty of stuff in the works, I will do my best to keep the thread updated.

Covington skyline with the recently completed Ascent at Roebling's condo tower.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2268/2504610780_1e9dce36ae.jpg?v=0

[CVG]

South Shore condos going up in Newport. Original plan called for:

Condominiums: Four buildings would be constructed, including two, 16-floor, 140,000-square-foot towers -one with 65 condominiums and the other with 65 apartments.

Two, four-level parking structures - one with 226 parking spaces and the other with 265 parking spaces - also would be constructed.

A clubhouse and recreational facility would be built in one of the residential towers.

Offices: Two buildings - both atop multi-level parking garages - would be constructed on an acre of land west of the condominium tower.

One building would house offices and the second either more offices or commercial or residential development.

Size and other characteristics of the buildings would depend on market conditions at the time of construction.

Marina: A harbor with at least 53 boat slips would be constructed in the Ohio River.

I couldnt find the new plan, but I think it calls for a total of 200 condos and no apartments. One tower is currently under construction, and another wont be built until every condo is sold in the first tower and at least half are sold in the second. Here is a recent construction pic from http://www.building-cincinnati.com/

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v366/grasscat/Construction/080723335nptmanss.jpg

[CVG]

$1 billion development in the works in Dayton, KY. Plans for the resort-style community, which is modeled after a development in Naples, Fla., where Imboden has a second home, show more than 1,900 condos, flats and single-family homes; a retirement center; a 150-room hotel; and nearly 250,000 square feet of shopping, restaurants and office space. "It will be a destination," Imboden said.

DAYTON, Ky. - With his suntanned skin, worn loafers and casual style, David C. Imboden looks like a laid-back guy in search of a cold drink and a quiet patio.

But behind the easygoing exterior of this 51-year-old developer is a relentless deal maker who says he is determined to make the Ohio River a drawing card for this tiny river city.

"Let's face it, the river is the value here," Imboden said as he zipped through plans of his most recent development venture.

Imboden, president of DCI Properties, has spent two decades flipping and redeveloping eyesores along Cincinnati's riverfront.

Known best for his work in the East End, Imboden has made millions of dollars transforming hundreds of abandoned lots and blighted homes into high-end riverfront condos such as Riverfront Terrace and Waterfront East.

Now, the former Taft High School teacher and football coach says he's finished developing in Cincinnati and has set his sites on his largest waterfront undertaking: a more than $1 billion project on 142 acres in Dayton.

http://news.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080713/BIZ01/807130344/-1/NEWS0107

[CVG]

Another large development in the works for Newport. Doubt all of these projects get fully complete, but they do appear to be moving along. Old renderings looked horrible, but new ones are due out in the next few months.

Newport waits for Ovation
$1 billion project slated to break ground soon

NEWPORT - Grass, weeds and utility poles populate the site of the largest commercial/residential development planned in Newport.

The $1 billion Ovation project, however, should break ground some time late this year or early 2009, according to the city and the developer, Covington-based Corporex Cos.

In September 2006, Newport selected Corporex to develop the site into homes and businesses where a public housing project sat at the confluence of the Licking and Ohio rivers.

The public housing tenants were relocated, the housing was torn down and Corporex created plans for several high- and mid-rise towers with a mix of residential, office, retail and entertainment venues.

To hasten development, Corporex CEO Bill Butler said the project needed the state to grant a tax incentive.

Tax incentives came in the form of tax-increment financing, which the state approved for the project in 2007.

That means most of tax revenue generated by Ovation will go back into funding infrastructure improvements like the public garage.

The financing is worth $200 million for the project.

Since the end of last year, Corporex has worked on detailed drawings for the site, said Debra Vicchiarelli, chief marketing officer for Corporex. Detailed plans for the site will be unveiled to the public sometime this fall or winter, she said. The public will have an opportunity to comment on the plans in a series of public meetings.

http://news.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080714/NEWS0103/807140330/1170/NEWS

[Ian604]

Cool! Keep us up to date! I love the NKY burbs. They could be their own stand-alone city.

[bigwilley]

It is rather unknown what is goin on up there in NKY I have been waiting for somone to make a NKY thread :) thankyou!

[CVG]

Manhattan Harbour update, I stole the renderings from a post from UncleRando at UO.

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e33/UncleRando/Project%20Info/Miscellaneous/manhattanharboursiteplavt7.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e33/UncleRando/Project%20Info/Miscellaneous/manhattanharbourrendeci2.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e33/UncleRando/Project%20Info/Miscellaneous/manhattanharbourrendmjj5.jpg



DAYTON - The 2,000-home development on Dayton's riverfront would get a tax incentive worth about $100 million with a proposal unveiled Thursday before City Council.

At a public hearing Thursday, developer DCI Properties and the city unveiled the proposal for the creation of a tax increment financing district, or TIF, around the Manhattan Harbour.

TIF districts allow the increase in tax revenue generated by a development to go back into the public infrastructure of that development. The city would issue $100 million to $120 million in bonds. Tax revenue generated by Manhattan Harbour would pay for the bonds and the interest.

The 2,000 homes and commercial space in Manhattan Harbour could have about $871 million of assessed value when finished, representatives with DCI told council.

TIF revenues would pay for raising the land 14-16 feet above the floodplain and the installation of lights, roads and other public infrastructure. Officials say the high development costs for Manhattan Harbour, largely because of its location in front of the floodwall, make tax incentives necessary.

"The challenge of Manhattan Harbour is unique," said Jim Parsons, an attorney for DCI. "We are building in an area that is currently unbuildable."

http://nky.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/AB/20080912/NEWS0103/809120392

[CVG]

Northern Kentucky's Vision 2015 to launch $10M fund

Northern Kentucky's Vision 2015 will launch a new development corporation to spur revitalization in the urban centers of the region's river cities.

The Catalytic Development Funding Corp. aims to raise $10 million by July 2009, said Jeanne Schroer, interim director of the University of Cincinnati Real Estate Center.

Schroer will become executive director of the new organization Sept. 1 and will be working right away to raise the money to leverage at least $100 million in development projects south of Northern Kentucky's riverfront.

"The idea is to move the success that has already happened on the river into the neighborhoods," Schroer said. "This would not be something for the very large, high-profile projects that are right there on the river. This is more the infill housing that might occur in neighborhoods in Covington, Newport, Bellevue, Dayton and Ludlow, or a unique mixed-use center in the neighborhood."

http://cincinnati.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/stories/2008/06/23/story1.html

[CVG]

Northern Kentucky region, Vision 2015 recognized for national planning award

The Northern Kentucky region was named as one of four finalists for the Alliance for Regional Stewardship (ARS) Organizational Champion Award for the work of Vision 2015, a community-driven ten-year strategic plan for growth.

The Organizational Champion Award recognizes regions, regional alliances and regional leaders for excellence and demonstrated progress in at least one of the four principles of regional stewardship: innovative economy, livable communities, social inclusion, and a collaborative style of governance.

This year’s awards were held at the ARS Regional Strategies Forum in Pittsburgh, July 29-30.

"The ARS is looking for the innovative ways in which communities tackle goals and challenges," says Kara Clark, vice president of communication and strategic initiatives for Vision 2015.

http://www.soapboxmedia.com/devnews/arsawards0902.aspx

[CVG]

Licking greenway plans 'a place of union', regional connection

Vision 2015 will host an public presentation to highlight the opportunities of the Licking River Greenway and Trails plan on Thursday from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the Northern Kentucky Area Planning Commission at 2332 Royal Drive in Fort Mitchell.

According to Human Nature, Inc. principal and landscape architect Gary Wolnitzek, residents can expect to see a plan that is based on broad community input and includes both short-term, immediately achievable projects and long-term, more ambitious projects.

"It's a vision that sees the Licking River corridor as the north-south spine of a regional parks network," he says. "It's a place of union, not a boundary - 'Where Northern Kentucky Comes Together'."

http://www.soapboxmedia.com/devnews/lickinggreenway0916.aspx

[eweezerinc]

Manhatten Harbour looks incredible!! Though my one complaint would be that there appears to be sections of open grass between the development and existing buildings. Are those necessary? I feel like that cuts off a portion of the development and makes it feel separated from the existing neighborhood. Is there a reason for that?

[CVG]

If we are looking at the same thing it looks like they have a steep incline that separates some of the development from existing buildings. It mentions in one of the articles that they are raising the land 14-16 feet above the floodplain so that probably leads to the separation.

[brian wear]

This project seems like a wonderful idea. Ten years ago. The economy in Dayton,Northen Kentucky and the country as a whole cannot support this. With the use of TIF moneney in this project the city should demand the most skilled and highest paid workers to build this project. This will set the bar for ligitimate contractors to bid the project.Contractors that use Independent subcontractor have an infamous history of not paying city,county and payroll taxes, these taxes are a vital source of immedate revenue to these entities. The city is in a fog when it comes to issues of this magnatude. The city is misinformed in regaurds to what they can regulate on projects.And have made no attemps to apply this action.

[CVG]

Just found a wiki page about Northern Kentucky. The area added right at 50,000 residents from 2000 to 2007 and currently has a population of 412,820. That includes 7 counties total. A vast majority of the population and growth is of course in Kenton, Campbell, and Boone counties.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Kentucky

[card04]

Since the Cincinnati development thread is pretty much dead on the Midwest forum I figured I would start an NKY one over here. Plenty of stuff in the works, I will do my best to keep the thread updated.

Covington skyline with the recently completed Ascent at Roebling's condo tower.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2268/2504610780_1e9dce36ae.jpg?v=0

The Ascent condo tower is probably my favorite building built in Kentucky in the past ten years.

[CVG]

I like the Ascent as well, just wish it was taller. Hopefully something is built soon in Covington that breaks our little height barrier.

[madtony26.2]

It is a fairly new skyline, isn't it? Do you have any older pics of the skyline?

[CVG]

Yeah its still a new skyline. Rivercenter 1 is still barely the tallest in the city and its 15-20 years old. Most of the development in that picture is from the last 10 years. The Radisson Hotel and a couple 15 story apartments buildings have been around since 1970 or so.

[CVG]

Couldnt find an old skyline shot in a quick google search, but found a cool angle of the Covington skyline and background I had never seen before. You can see the old apartments to the right in the background and the Radisson is even further to the right not pictured, not really part of the core skyline.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0a/Covington-Kentucky.jpg/800px-Covington-Kentucky.jpg

[card04]

What is that creek/river seperating Newport and Covington? Somehow I never noticed it until I went there recently. Do you have any pics of the historical parts of Northern Kentucky, the parts I saw were very well preserved.

[shmeedt]

What is that creek/river seperating Newport and Covington? Somehow I never noticed it until I went there recently. Do you have any pics of the historical parts of Northern Kentucky, the parts I saw were very well preserved.

That's the Licking River. It's a pretty long river.

[seicer]

Convention center hits wall (http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20081123/NEWS0108/811230362/1169/NEWS)
Timing, location make expansion difficult
By Keith T. Reed, Cincinnati Enquirer, November 23, 2008

COVINGTON - Officials are deciding how much money to request from the Kentucky Legislature to expand the Northern Kentucky Convention Center, which they say is in need of an upgrade.

In Kentucky's 2007-08 fiscal year, the agencies that operate the center requested $51 million from the state to buy land and expand the center. The proposal was included in a planning budget before a change in administrations derailed the effort.

Even aiming at a much lower target has failed. A request for the current fiscal year for $3 million to fund an expansion feasibility study failed.

Officials are wrestling with how to keep the plan alive in the 2009-10 budget, which takes effect in July. A dour economy will likely leave state coffers too lean to spare the full $51 million. Those factors have left executives looking for a middle ground.

"We have to really sit and talk with our board and talk with our lobbyists and see what they think is possible," said Tom Caradonio, president and CEO of the Northern Kentucky Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The 9-year-old facility has been touted as an economic engine responsible for bringing more than 1,700 events to the area and pumping $784 million into the local economy. But officials say the center must grow to retain many of the same conventions.

Caradonio said that over the years, the convention center has lost out on conventions that would have combined to fill 180,000 hotel room-nights because it was either booked by another group or couldn't handle a group's size. The room-night figure is figured as each night one person would have stayed in a hotel while here for a convention. Had it won even half that business, Caradonio estimates, it would have been worth an additional $88 million to the area's economy based on figures through the end of 2007.

Expanding the center won't be an easy task, even if the money were there. It is virtually landlocked, flanked by a hotel, parking garage and offices.

Jay Fossett, Covington's city manager and a convention center board member, said there are at least three places where the convention center could be expanded, but they all come with stumbling blocks.

An expansion could be built to the center's northwest, on a city-owned riverfront parcel next to a Marriott hotel and an office building. But that land is already being eyed for a part of green space that would link Covington, Newport, Bellevue, Dayton and Ludlow along the Ohio River.

To the east, across Madison Street, is a parcel owned by developer Corporex Corp. But Corporex has considered building two hotels on that lot.

The best option would be to expand to the south, on land owned by the Internal Revenue Service, Fossett said.

But IRS' plans must be resolved first. The agency employs about 4,000 people, making it one of Covington's largest employers and a priority for the city to retain.

It occupies offices and has a parking lot immediately to the center's south and next year is expected to decide whether to stay in those offices or relocate.

"Everything hinges upon what the IRS wants to do," Fossett said. "We won't know until sometime next year."

[MetroMax]

Convention center hits wall (http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20081123/NEWS0108/811230362/1169/NEWS)
Timing, location make expansion difficult
By Keith T. Reed, Cincinnati Enquirer, November 23, 2008

COVINGTON - Officials are deciding how much money to request from the Kentucky Legislature to expand the Northern Kentucky Convention Center, which they say is in need of an upgrade.

In Kentucky's 2007-08 fiscal year, the agencies that operate the center requested $51 million from the state to buy land and expand the center. The proposal was included in a planning budget before a change in administrations derailed the effort.

Even aiming at a much lower target has failed. A request for the current fiscal year for $3 million to fund an expansion feasibility study failed.

Officials are wrestling with how to keep the plan alive in the 2009-10 budget, which takes effect in July. A dour economy will likely leave state coffers too lean to spare the full $51 million. Those factors have left executives looking for a middle ground.

"We have to really sit and talk with our board and talk with our lobbyists and see what they think is possible," said Tom Caradonio, president and CEO of the Northern Kentucky Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The 9-year-old facility has been touted as an economic engine responsible for bringing more than 1,700 events to the area and pumping $784 million into the local economy. But officials say the center must grow to retain many of the same conventions.

Caradonio said that over the years, the convention center has lost out on conventions that would have combined to fill 180,000 hotel room-nights because it was either booked by another group or couldn't handle a group's size. The room-night figure is figured as each night one person would have stayed in a hotel while here for a convention. Had it won even half that business, Caradonio estimates, it would have been worth an additional $88 million to the area's economy based on figures through the end of 2007.

Expanding the center won't be an easy task, even if the money were there. It is virtually landlocked, flanked by a hotel, parking garage and offices.

Jay Fossett, Covington's city manager and a convention center board member, said there are at least three places where the convention center could be expanded, but they all come with stumbling blocks.

An expansion could be built to the center's northwest, on a city-owned riverfront parcel next to a Marriott hotel and an office building. But that land is already being eyed for a part of green space that would link Covington, Newport, Bellevue, Dayton and Ludlow along the Ohio River.

To the east, across Madison Street, is a parcel owned by developer Corporex Corp. But Corporex has considered building two hotels on that lot.

The best option would be to expand to the south, on land owned by the Internal Revenue Service, Fossett said.

But IRS' plans must be resolved first. The agency employs about 4,000 people, making it one of Covington's largest employers and a priority for the city to retain.

It occupies offices and has a parking lot immediately to the center's south and next year is expected to decide whether to stay in those offices or relocate.

"Everything hinges upon what the IRS wants to do," Fossett said. "We won't know until sometime next year."

Convention center hits wall (http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20081123/NEWS0108/811230362/1169/NEWS)
Timing, location make expansion difficult
By Keith T. Reed, Cincinnati Enquirer, November 23, 2008

COVINGTON - Officials are deciding how much money to request from the Kentucky Legislature to expand the Northern Kentucky Convention Center, which they say is in need of an upgrade.

In Kentucky's 2007-08 fiscal year, the agencies that operate the center requested $51 million from the state to buy land and expand the center. The proposal was included in a planning budget before a change in administrations derailed the effort.

Even aiming at a much lower target has failed. A request for the current fiscal year for $3 million to fund an expansion feasibility study failed.

Officials are wrestling with how to keep the plan alive in the 2009-10 budget, which takes effect in July. A dour economy will likely leave state coffers too lean to spare the full $51 million. Those factors have left executives looking for a middle ground.

"We have to really sit and talk with our board and talk with our lobbyists and see what they think is possible," said Tom Caradonio, president and CEO of the Northern Kentucky Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The 9-year-old facility has been touted as an economic engine responsible for bringing more than 1,700 events to the area and pumping $784 million into the local economy. But officials say the center must grow to retain many of the same conventions.

Caradonio said that over the years, the convention center has lost out on conventions that would have combined to fill 180,000 hotel room-nights because it was either booked by another group or couldn't handle a group's size. The room-night figure is figured as each night one person would have stayed in a hotel while here for a convention. Had it won even half that business, Caradonio estimates, it would have been worth an additional $88 million to the area's economy based on figures through the end of 2007.

Expanding the center won't be an easy task, even if the money were there. It is virtually landlocked, flanked by a hotel, parking garage and offices.

Jay Fossett, Covington's city manager and a convention center board member, said there are at least three places where the convention center could be expanded, but they all come with stumbling blocks.

An expansion could be built to the center's northwest, on a city-owned riverfront parcel next to a Marriott hotel and an office building. But that land is already being eyed for a part of green space that would link Covington, Newport, Bellevue, Dayton and Ludlow along the Ohio River.

To the east, across Madison Street, is a parcel owned by developer Corporex Corp. But Corporex has considered building two hotels on that lot.

The best option would be to expand to the south, on land owned by the Internal Revenue Service, Fossett said.

But IRS' plans must be resolved first. The agency employs about 4,000 people, making it one of Covington's largest employers and a priority for the city to retain.

It occupies offices and has a parking lot immediately to the center's south and next year is expected to decide whether to stay in those offices or relocate.

"Everything hinges upon what the IRS wants to do," Fossett said. "We won't know until sometime next year."

is this still a live?

[seicer]

Projects near NKU go ahead (http://nky.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/AB/20081208/NEWS0103/812080350)
But some slowing as tenants hesitate to commit
By Scott Wartman, Kentucky Enquirer, December 8, 2008

HIGHLAND HEIGHTS - Some developers of planned shopping and residential developments around Northern Kentucky University and its new arena expect to start construction in 2009.

The economy has slowed some of the projects, but the 10,000-seat Bank of Kentucky Center and the growth at NKU have kept developers interested in that section of the U.S. 27 corridor.

The Highland Heights City Council earlier this year approved several projects, including two retail developments and an apartment complex for 400 students.

The Thriftway that sat vacant for several years along U.S. 27 in front of NKU was torn down during the summer to make way for a retail/office development that might include a hotel.

In the next three months, Highland Heights Planning and Zoning will likely get Stage II plans for two shopping centers - one in the center of Highland Heights on a parcel of land known as "The Island" and the other at the interchange of U.S. 27 and Interstate 471, said Steve Crawford, chair of Campbell County Planning and Zoning.

The Island - officially called Highland Crossing - could have shops by the end of 2009, said Joe Hodge, a partner with the developer Edge Real Estate. Construction will start late spring, Hodge said. The developer hasn't signed tenants for the 12,900-square-foot shopping center, which will be built on the 2.1 acres between the old and new Alexandria pikes across from NKU.

Many businesses have slowed or halted opening new locations in the current economic climate, Hodge said. Edge is negotiating with five or six tenants that include restaurants, a medical user and retailers, Hodge said.

The economy prompted some potential tenants, including a coffee shop, to stop discussions about moving into Highland Crossing, Hodge said.

"Good real estate will still bring in good tenants," Hodge said. "I'm highly optimistic. Obviously the location of the property is an asset. Hopefully there will be a settling of the economy soon."

The developer of the retail development at the city's Gateway West area where I-471 dead ends into U.S. 27 couldn't be reached for comment.

Towne Properties bought about four acres there to build three commercial buildings. Towne Properties transferred the development to Midland Retail to build and market, said Brad Austing, vice president of Towne Properties.

The former Thriftway site could become a hub of commerce with plans to build retail and office space as well as a hotel.

The NKU Foundation bought the property in 2000 and is working with developer Corporex on designs for the site, said Foundation Executive Director Karen Zerhusen Kruer. The foundation is responsible for accepting and managing funds raised to support NKU.

By the end of January, Kruer hopes to have feasibility and financing plans for the project complete.

"The good news is that we are moving forward in the current environment," Kruer said. "We feel this is something the community needs."

Construction will begin next summer on apartments for 400 students, said Brian Jones, vice president of development for Collegiate Development. Collegiate Development has drawn up plans to develop 172 apartments for students on 10 acres owned by Asbury United Methodist Church near NKU.

Collegiate Development and the church continue to negotiate, Jones said. If construction starts next summer, the apartments would be completed in fall 2010, he said. The economy and market won't likely impact the construction of the complex, Jones said.

"The student housing business, I wouldn't say it is recession-proof, but it is more recession-resistant than other industries," Jones said. "Generally when the economy goes south, people go back to school."

Highland Heights could become a destination for retail and dining if the developments live up to their potential, Mayor Greg Meyers said. In anticipation, Meyers would like more pedestrian links to the different areas of Highland Heights. U.S. 27 bisects the east and west ends of the city.

A pedestrian bridge that would link Highland Crossing with the former Thriftway property would be a prized addition, Meyers said.

"I think people will think of us as a community on the move, a community with a town center that is thriving," Meyers said. "People can come in and enjoy our city and spend the night."

[MetroMax]

Projects near NKU go ahead (http://nky.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/AB/20081208/NEWS0103/812080350)
But some slowing as tenants hesitate to commit
By Scott Wartman, Kentucky Enquirer, December 8, 2008

HIGHLAND HEIGHTS - Some developers of planned shopping and residential developments around Northern Kentucky University and its new arena expect to start construction in 2009.

The economy has slowed some of the projects, but the 10,000-seat Bank of Kentucky Center and the growth at NKU have kept developers interested in that section of the U.S. 27 corridor.

The Highland Heights City Council earlier this year approved several projects, including two retail developments and an apartment complex for 400 students.

The Thriftway that sat vacant for several years along U.S. 27 in front of NKU was torn down during the summer to make way for a retail/office development that might include a hotel.

In the next three months, Highland Heights Planning and Zoning will likely get Stage II plans for two shopping centers - one in the center of Highland Heights on a parcel of land known as "The Island" and the other at the interchange of U.S. 27 and Interstate 471, said Steve Crawford, chair of Campbell County Planning and Zoning.

The Island - officially called Highland Crossing - could have shops by the end of 2009, said Joe Hodge, a partner with the developer Edge Real Estate. Construction will start late spring, Hodge said. The developer hasn't signed tenants for the 12,900-square-foot shopping center, which will be built on the 2.1 acres between the old and new Alexandria pikes across from NKU.

Many businesses have slowed or halted opening new locations in the current economic climate, Hodge said. Edge is negotiating with five or six tenants that include restaurants, a medical user and retailers, Hodge said.

The economy prompted some potential tenants, including a coffee shop, to stop discussions about moving into Highland Crossing, Hodge said.

"Good real estate will still bring in good tenants," Hodge said. "I'm highly optimistic. Obviously the location of the property is an asset. Hopefully there will be a settling of the economy soon."

The developer of the retail development at the city's Gateway West area where I-471 dead ends into U.S. 27 couldn't be reached for comment.

Towne Properties bought about four acres there to build three commercial buildings. Towne Properties transferred the development to Midland Retail to build and market, said Brad Austing, vice president of Towne Properties.

The former Thriftway site could become a hub of commerce with plans to build retail and office space as well as a hotel.

The NKU Foundation bought the property in 2000 and is working with developer Corporex on designs for the site, said Foundation Executive Director Karen Zerhusen Kruer. The foundation is responsible for accepting and managing funds raised to support NKU.

By the end of January, Kruer hopes to have feasibility and financing plans for the project complete.

"The good news is that we are moving forward in the current environment," Kruer said. "We feel this is something the community needs."

Construction will begin next summer on apartments for 400 students, said Brian Jones, vice president of development for Collegiate Development. Collegiate Development has drawn up plans to develop 172 apartments for students on 10 acres owned by Asbury United Methodist Church near NKU.

Collegiate Development and the church continue to negotiate, Jones said. If construction starts next summer, the apartments would be completed in fall 2010, he said. The economy and market won't likely impact the construction of the complex, Jones said.

"The student housing business, I wouldn't say it is recession-proof, but it is more recession-resistant than other industries," Jones said. "Generally when the economy goes south, people go back to school."

Highland Heights could become a destination for retail and dining if the developments live up to their potential, Mayor Greg Meyers said. In anticipation, Meyers would like more pedestrian links to the different areas of Highland Heights. U.S. 27 bisects the east and west ends of the city.

A pedestrian bridge that would link Highland Crossing with the former Thriftway property would be a prized addition, Meyers said.

"I think people will think of us as a community on the move, a community with a town center that is thriving," Meyers said. "People can come in and enjoy our city and spend the night."

sweet post. thanks

[eweezerinc]

I seriously considered NKU because I had a full ride, but the campus looks like a prison, and I was not about to enter their Musical Theatre program, though it is improving... I think more than anything, I hated the fact that I would need a car to get anywhere. I didnt even bring my car to Pittsburgh. What would I need it for? I go to school in a skyscraper!

Still, NKU is certainly on its way up, and the construction is very encouraging. I think the state really needs NKU to step up and fill the demand for certain programs in the state, such as performing arts. Kentucky loses so many creative and progressive young individuals because arts programs in general at in-state schools simply are not on par(save for instrumental music at UofL and UK). If there had been even a somewhat reputable Theatre program in Kentucky, I would have stayed. As it stands, I and all of my peers have ended up studying in Pittsburgh, Boston, Chicago, NYC, Florida, Ohio, Tennesse, Colorado, Oklahoma, hell you name it. Strong arts programs attract students from around the country. Kentucky is losing artists out its ass, and a lot of these progressive, intelligent minds dont return, unfortunately.

So in short, I think NKU is doing good things. :okay:

[seicer]

Bids for garage will be opened Monday (http://nky.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/AB/20081214/NEWS0103/812140375)
But Covington commissioners not sure they will sell
By Mike Rutledge, Kentucky Enquirer, December 14, 2008

COVINGTON - An envelope to be opened Monday morning in a fourth-floor City Hall conference room could mean millions of dollars for city government and Northern Kentucky developer Corporex Cos.

That envelope will reveal how much Corporex and possibly other firms are willing to pay for the approximately 900-space parking garage beneath the Riverfront Embassy Suites Hotel and two RiverCenter office towers.

At their final regularly scheduled meeting of the year the next evening, city commissioners are expected to vote on the garage's sale.

"We might have an executive session on Tuesday, depending on what the bids say, to discuss it, and hopefully, we'll vote on it (afterward)," said city Commissioner Jerry Stricker, the city's leading advocate of a sale.

City officials have said estimates have placed the garage's value anywhere in the range of $4 million-plus to $7.5 million, depending on what method is used to evaluate the facility's revenues.

Proponents of a sale, including Stricker, argue the city has badly managed the garage and should leave the property-ownership business. An estimated $1.5 million in delayed repairs are needed to make needed improvements and stop the garage's deterioration.

Corporex officials have said they want to buy the garage because the city has let it and the public plaza above it become so shabby that it has harmed their ability to attract and keep clients.

Opponents of a sale, including Commissioner Sherry Carran and Mayor-elect Denny Bowman, argue the city is unlikely to reap the full value of the garage, whose current revenues are down because this is a period between Covington Landing and a proposed new entertainment complex there. If hotels are built nearby, as Corporex has indicated it wants to do, that also would create more parking revenues, as would a casino if it moved to the riverfront.

Opponents also are concerned a sale would give Corporex too much power over the garage, at the potential disadvantage of other nearby businesses. They further note the city could use the garage as an economic-development tool to lure other businesses.

Added to the mix is Corporex's likely inclusion, at the suggestion of City Manager Jay Fossett, of a property seven blocks to the south in the sale.

Corporex has agreed to include land at Seventh and Washington streets, two blocks from the federal courthouse, that Covington wants to use to attract Northern Kentucky University's Salmon P. Chase College of Law.

Stricker said he believes public sentiment swung in favor of a garage sale after a public hearing earlier this month on the matter.

"The good news is after the public hearing, a lot of people who were against it, they're now in favor of it," Stricker said. "A lot of people didn't understand it, which is because it's such a complex deal, but now I think they have a better understanding."

Corporex is most likely to win the bidding because a decade ago the city granted it the right to match anybody else's offer. Stricker and others have promised if the city sells the garage it will negotiate to protect the city's interests as well as those of nearby property owners connected with the garage.

[MetroMax]

Bids for garage will be opened Monday (http://nky.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/AB/20081214/NEWS0103/812140375)
But Covington commissioners not sure they will sell
By Mike Rutledge, Kentucky Enquirer, December 14, 2008

COVINGTON - An envelope to be opened Monday morning in a fourth-floor City Hall conference room could mean millions of dollars for city government and Northern Kentucky developer Corporex Cos.

That envelope will reveal how much Corporex and possibly other firms are willing to pay for the approximately 900-space parking garage beneath the Riverfront Embassy Suites Hotel and two RiverCenter office towers.

At their final regularly scheduled meeting of the year the next evening, city commissioners are expected to vote on the garage's sale.

"We might have an executive session on Tuesday, depending on what the bids say, to discuss it, and hopefully, we'll vote on it (afterward)," said city Commissioner Jerry Stricker, the city's leading advocate of a sale.

City officials have said estimates have placed the garage's value anywhere in the range of $4 million-plus to $7.5 million, depending on what method is used to evaluate the facility's revenues.

Proponents of a sale, including Stricker, argue the city has badly managed the garage and should leave the property-ownership business. An estimated $1.5 million in delayed repairs are needed to make needed improvements and stop the garage's deterioration.

Corporex officials have said they want to buy the garage because the city has let it and the public plaza above it become so shabby that it has harmed their ability to attract and keep clients.

Opponents of a sale, including Commissioner Sherry Carran and Mayor-elect Denny Bowman, argue the city is unlikely to reap the full value of the garage, whose current revenues are down because this is a period between Covington Landing and a proposed new entertainment complex there. If hotels are built nearby, as Corporex has indicated it wants to do, that also would create more parking revenues, as would a casino if it moved to the riverfront.

Opponents also are concerned a sale would give Corporex too much power over the garage, at the potential disadvantage of other nearby businesses. They further note the city could use the garage as an economic-development tool to lure other businesses.

Added to the mix is Corporex's likely inclusion, at the suggestion of City Manager Jay Fossett, of a property seven blocks to the south in the sale.

Corporex has agreed to include land at Seventh and Washington streets, two blocks from the federal courthouse, that Covington wants to use to attract Northern Kentucky University's Salmon P. Chase College of Law.

Stricker said he believes public sentiment swung in favor of a garage sale after a public hearing earlier this month on the matter.

"The good news is after the public hearing, a lot of people who were against it, they're now in favor of it," Stricker said. "A lot of people didn't understand it, which is because it's such a complex deal, but now I think they have a better understanding."

Corporex is most likely to win the bidding because a decade ago the city granted it the right to match anybody else's offer. Stricker and others have promised if the city sells the garage it will negotiate to protect the city's interests as well as those of nearby property owners connected with the garage.

2much power over a garage is never good thing. all that power consuntrated in one place dictating parking power

[seicer]

Mall Road project may not be ready for stimulus package (http://nky.cincinnati.com/article/C2/20090107/NEWS/901070309)
By Justin B. Duke, Kentucky Enquirer, January 7, 2009

Florence may be stuck with what Mayor Diane Whalen called a "classic chicken and egg" situation.

If President-elect Obama enacts an economic stimulus package funding "shovel-ready" projects, the Mall Road reconstruction project may not be ready enough to be included.

Right now, the engineering and planning needed for any road project hasn't been done, and city leaders aren't sure if Florence should go ahead and pay for it to be done.

The engineering will cost around $1.4 million, said City Coordinator Pat Wingo.

If they wait, the reconstruction could eventually be handled by the state and they would do all the planning, Whalen said.

But the project may not be ready to go if a stimulus package is passed.

"Can't we take the chance and design that sucker?" asked Vice-Mayor Ted Bushelman.

The Mall Road project was submitted to several agencies requesting a list of shovel-ready projects, so if a stimulus package is passed, the decision makers should have ample opportunity to see the need, Whalen said.

Ultimately, the whole issue may be a moot point because no one is sure how ready a project has to be. Politicians in Washington, D.C., are likely trying to figure out the criteria for stimulus projects, said Council Member Mike Apgar.

"I don't think anyone knows," Apgar said.

If the stimulus package is passed, the planning would have to be done quickly, but Florence would have it ready to meet the criteria, Whalen said.

Reconstructing Mall Road is important because it is not just for moving traffic, but instead it is a retail destination, said Council Member Julie Metzger Aubuchon.

The project would create an estimated 200 jobs, but Whalen sees that as a low estimate because it would likely spur on new retail jobs as well.