Mt. Lookout Square “Revitalization” Project Update

November 26, 2010

Cincinnati Department of Community Development Recommends $400k for Mt. Lookout Revitalization!

The Mt. Lookout Community Development Corporation received a letter on November 10, 2010 from City from the City of Cincinnati Department of Community Development recommending to City Council that the Mt. Lookout Community receive another $400k for Phase 2 construction in the Square. See letter at the following Link: NBD Funding Request 

The Mt. Lookout Community Development Corporation (MLCDC) had originally submitted a request for $750k to complete the second phase of construction in 2011, but was encouraged to reduce the amount to $400k considering the number of other large funding requests submitted by other communities. "There is only $1M available to community projects in our category, and there were some other good projects on the docket" said Matt Johnson, MLCDC Treasurer. "It's appropriate that we help support all communities in Cincinnati. If we can make significant progress in Mt. Lookout with a lesser amount, and free up funds for other communities, it is the right thing to do". In 2009, the MLCDC reduced their requested amount for similar reasons. "While we will have to cut back on the scope of Phase 2 construction (likely resulting in a Phase 3), The MLCDC Board felt that this was our best approach to securing some funding to keep the project moving forward. We appreciate the leadership Cincinnati Neighborhood Business Districts United (CNBDU)  has provided over the years, and their recommendation to scale back the request in 2011 was appropriate in light of the other projects seeking funding assistance" said Andy Park, MLCDC President. "We will have to see how much progress can be made on the North side of the Square in 2011" said Park.

The MLCDC is very appreciative of all the volunteer time and effort that goes into the annual NBD funding request process The CNDBU, and dozens of Cincinnati community volunteers participate in the four month process each year! We anticipate completion of the majority of the original Phase 2 improvements in 2011. Probably most pivotal next year is the private fundraising that needs to happen to sponsor the trees, benches, pavers, and landscaping in the traffic islands. Please check out our design competition application form for some design concepts that will be incorporated in 2001. Design Competition Information 

Please keep an eye on the Mt. Lookout Community Council website for additional updates.

Sincerely,
Andy Park
Past President, MLCDC