Developing the Waterfront

The development of the regional waterfront reflects the tensions in local and global economics, the changing role of technology in structuring urban form, and the dynamic demographic profile of this international city. Over the past twenty years, there has been an increased interest in the social and economic dynamic of urban living. Cities like Cincinnati are increasingly attractive as places to live. Though the need for office space tends to fluctuate with the market, the demand for housing close to the metropolitan center has increased.

The Ohio River waterfront, which once operated as the city’s service yard for shipping, good’s transfers and industry, is underutilized and therefore subject to economic speculation. Commercial and residential developments have shot up in areas in the greater metropolitan area. Each of these areas has urban advantages and disadvantages. In some cases, these neighborhoods lack those urban characteristics that distinguish a city from a suburban development – great streets, public spaces, mixed use, cultural attractions, and design quality.

The waterfront is both formally attractive with views of the skyline and convenience to both existing and developing transportation systems that offer easy access to business centers. Over the past few years that fabric has changed considerably - sometime to the objection of local interests. 

We will examine the architectural and urban implications of the greater waterfront plan. The economics of site rehabilitation and market demand mean that the programs designated for these areas will considerably increase the density of the existing fabric and alter the role and image of adjacent neighborhoods. 

The new zoning plan for the site will change what had been industrial warehouses associated with the waterfront into a mixed residential zone. This designation will significantly increase the population of the neighborhood and greatly affect the character of the neighborhood.

This studio proposes to analyze and design an urbanism for the new post-industrial waterfront.