Updated Plans Unveiled for Cincinnati's Riverfront The Banks Development

Consultants release renderings and a plan for the remaining vacant parcels at The Banks along the Ohio River.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:22pm

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A miniature, stylized 3D digital illustration depicting the proposed high-rise buildings, offices, and entertainment venues for the remaining parcels at The Banks riverfront development in Cincinnati, floating above a solid pastel background with soft studio lighting and bold colors.An artist's rendering of the ambitious plan to transform Cincinnati's riverfront with new high-density residential, office, and entertainment developments at The Banks.Cincinnati Today

A team of consultants and designers have released an updated plan for the remaining undeveloped lots on The Banks, Cincinnati's riverfront development. The plan calls for high-rise buildings with more residential space, offices, and entertainment, as well as infrastructure improvements over the next 11 years to transform the area into an urban district.

Why it matters

The Banks has been a key part of Cincinnati's riverfront revitalization efforts since opening in 2011, but several parcels remain undeveloped. This updated plan aims to further activate the area and transition it from an event venue to a vibrant mixed-use urban district.

The details

The consultants' plan recommends building two to three new buildings with related infrastructure improvements in the first four years, followed by substantive development over the next five years to complete two to three development blocks. The maximum height of any new building would be 285 feet, or about 24 stories. The plan will soon go before Cincinnati's planning and zoning boards, as well as City Council, for approval.

  • The Banks opened in 2011 on Cincinnati's riverfront.
  • The consultants released their updated plan on April 13, 2026.
  • The plan calls for development to occur over the next 11 years.

The players

The Banks

A mixed-use riverfront development in Cincinnati, Ohio, located between Great American Ball Park and Paycor Stadium.

Phil Beck

The Banks' project executive.

Perkins & Will

A Chicago-based firm that is part of the master planning team for The Banks.

MKSK

An Over-the-Rhine-based firm that is part of the master planning team for The Banks.

Kolar Design

A Cincinnati-based firm that is part of the master planning team for The Banks.

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What they’re saying

“The plan calls for high-density residential at The Banks to 'drive everyday activity' as part of a 'transition from event venue to urban district'.”

— The consultants

What’s next

The plan will soon go before Cincinnati Planning and Zoning, the Urban Design and Review Board, and Cincinnati City Council for approval, which is expected to happen by June 2026.

The takeaway

This updated plan for The Banks represents the next phase in Cincinnati's efforts to transform its riverfront into a vibrant, mixed-use urban district that can attract residents, workers, and visitors year-round, beyond just hosting major events.