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City launches design competition to "Connect the Blocks"

WVXU News

The City of Cincinnati is holding a national competition to get design ideas for the decks over Fort Washington Way that will connect the Central Business District to the Banks. 

The competition is called "Connect the Blocks."  The city will conduct a call for entries from design, architectural and engineering experts to create concepts and cost estimates.  The space could be used as a park, commercial development or entertainment district, but isn't limited to those uses. 

Local professionals will judge the competition.  Monetary stipends raised with non-profit and corporate support will be given to three to five finalists to further refine their designs.  The competition is expected to last about 8 months.

The city is also inviting the public to share ideas  through an online surveyand two public meetings:

September 26, 6 pm, at the Madisonville Recreation Center, 5320 Stewart Road

October 9, 6 pm, at the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, Main Branch Tower Room, 800 Vine Street

The pile foundations for the decks were constructed during the improvements made to Fort Washington Way in the early 2000's.  The city says future construction of this project is anticipated pending the availability of funding.