Over-the-Rhine Foundation

Cincinnati is a very historic city with an extraordinary number of historic places on the National Register. Over-the-Rhine has more such buildings than New Orleans and is larger than Charleston's world-renowned historic district.

Unlike these cities, though, Cincinnati has not capitalized on its historic assets. In fact, we have let many of these assets become an albatross: historic buildings throughout Over-the-Rhine sit vacant and derelict, deteriorating over years of neglect. Unfortunately, the approach to this dilemma has been standardized and reactionary: demolition.  Over-the-Rhine is still one of America's most historically significant neighborhoods, but it is at a tipping point. We have recently calculated that OTR is only four demolitions away from passing 50% destruction of its historic building stock.Most American historic districts have been spared because of their impressive collections of mansions or unique architecture. OTR is significant for essentially the opposite reason. To this day, its sense of place is that of a working class, immigrant neighborhood. OTR's building stock reflects this diversity of socio-economic classes and mix of uses. Today, more residents and businesses are moving into OTR than ever. We believe Over-the-Rhine will become an economic and cultural asset for the city of Cincinnati; a revitalized, safe, diverse, beautiful and vibrant community in which to live, work and play.

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