Development News for Covington, Kentucky

South Bank Partners Advances Regional Riverfront Development and Community Enhancement

South Bank Partners, a nonprofit focused on economic development in nine river cities, is highlighting its work on the Riverfront Commons project, which aims to create a regional riverfront district. This includes ongoing efforts on the Riverwalk, with a groundbreaking for Phase II in Lello and continued design for connections in Covington. The organization, founded in 1997 by business leaders, emphasizes interlocal agreements and collaborative development, particularly focusing on urban cores when national trends leaned towards suburbs. Their funding model relies on annual membership contributions from participating cities, supplemented by state and federal grants. Recent successes include a $2.5 million state grant in 2022, which has been leveraged to secure nearly $6 million more, and a $4.7 million federal grant for the Riverwalk's design and engineering. The Brent Spence Companion Bridge project will impact Riverfront Commons for an estimated five years, necessitating a detour for a section of the Riverwalk, but this detour path will remain after construction, offering an alternative connection for multimodal users. South Bank's evolved role includes acting as an extension of city economic development staffs, focusing on community development, placemaking, and enhancing urban cores to attract talent and investment. Their strategic plan, 'Innovate 2028', focuses on transportation, infrastructure, vibrancy, placemaking, and small business support. A key branding initiative for Riverfront Commons is the tagline 'Front Porch to the South,' aiming to position the region as a unique destination with scenic views and diverse cultural experiences. Future plans include completing various phases of the Riverwalk, engaging the private sector for philanthropic support, and aiming to be recognized as the number one riverwalk in the country.