The Portland Streetcar and Cincinnati (Part 4)

Portland Trip Summary

Portland definitely has a lot to offer, and much of it is owed to their streetcars and mass transit system in general. Many people say that Cincinnati should not try to be another Portland. We really don't think that is the goal of these trips. The streetcar should be seen as an example of a project that works in a city that is similar in size to Cincinnati.

We feel that with the addition of streetcars, Cincinnati will flourish. For example, Over-the-Rhine has the largest collection of 19th century buildings in the entire country. However, many buildings are either empty or near the point of being condemned. Imagine if all those buildings were rehabbed and occupied. So far, there has been success with the Gateway Quarter. However, as distances from the urban core increase it is our feeling that it will be more difficult to convince people to invest in the neighborhood. With little parking and spotty bus transit, a rail route will encourage people to live in OTR and possibly give up a car to take the streetcar.

Let's also not forget that there are many great attractions on or near the proposed streetcar route. The city has two major league sports teams, a minor league hockey team, and several collegiate sports teams. The Cincinnati Zoo just remodeled its entrance that would integrate well with a rail route. Findlay Market, the oldest continuously running market in the region (been in operation since 1855), may be flourishing, but lacks adequate parking. The performing arts scene is alive with several venues through downtown (Aronoff) and OTR (Ensemble and Know Theaters), and there are many small art galleries scattered throughout. Downtown also has many museums that are close to the line like the CAC (Contemporary Arts Center) and Underground Freedom Center. And let's not forget the Banks with a multi-million dollar riverfront park is currently under construction, the first parking garage opening this year and construction starting on the first buildings this spring. All of these and more exist in Cincinnati, but many aren't in Portland.  We actually have more to connect than they do.  Imagine all of this and more accessible by a streetcar.

The whole region would benefit from a streetcar system.  Downtown and OTR residents will have improved access to transit.  Visitors to the city will be able to just park once and enjoy all our attractions without having to move their car and find a new place to park. Downtown workers will benefit by having more lunch and shopping options nearby.  And lastly, all Cincinnatians will benefit from an increased tax base, reduced traffic, reduced pollution and better mobility.

In conclusion, the streetcar can go a long way in helping the city to flourish. However, streetcars are not a silver bullet. Good developers, zoning changes, public policy, passionate citizens, etc... are also required.  Let's not all forget that Cincinnati is already a great place to live. With more transit options and passionate citizens willing to roll up their sleeves, it can only make it that much better.