Big changes underway from FC Cincinnati, as the MLS squad launched work on a $300-million, 8.5-acre TQL Stadium development that will include retail, a hotel and more.
Drawing inspiration from other mixed-use developments at sports facilities, including Gallagher Way at Wrigleyville in Chicago and Titletown at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, the TQL Stadium mixed-use district will include a hotel, apartments, office space, retail, restaurants, and a privately owned public green space. Located in the West End, adjacent to Over-the-Rhine and near Downtown, the district will be at the heart of Cincinnati.
“We intend to make Cincinnati a championship city beyond the soccer season,” said Jeff Berding, co-CEO of FC Cincinnati, via press release. “The district will create a community hub at the front steps of our home field, rooted in history and legacy, that aesthetically inspires and emotionally unites our city with a vision for the future. This holds true to our core values and culture as a team.”
FC Cincinnati will serve as Master Developer and Master Mixed-Use Operations Manager for the district. bringing in consultants and other professionals to assist in executing the Master Development Plan. “We believe this is a seven to eight year development,” said Chad Munitz, Chief Development Officer, via press release. “We started demolition today with the first buildings complete by the end of 2025.”
Phase one demolition will include three buildings located south of Liberty Street between Central Parkway, Central Avenue and Wade Street. O’Rourke, a certified Women’s Business Enterprise, will take the buildings down to grade level. Demolition is expected to be completed this summer.
“As a community, we are excited about this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make transformational improvements to the West End,” said Chris Griffin, President, West End Community Council, via press release.
The Compendium will develop the hotel. “Today marks a bold step forward for FC Cincinnati and The Compendium’s inaugural hotel,” said Josh Heuser, founder of The Compendium, via press release. “We are looking forward to creating unforgettable memories for our guests through elevated design experiences and a superior level of service across our hotel, hospitality, entertainment, and retail spaces.”
Marquee Development is serving as the initial Master Development Consultant. Marquee is a real estate developer with professional sports experience and has developed urban sites adjacent to sports stadiums including Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville and the North Loop Green adjacent to the Minnesota Twins Stadium. Government Strategies Group will manage government and community relations. An Architect and Construction Management Company will be engaged soon.
J.S. Held will serve as the owners’ representative. J.S. Held is a global consulting firm with expertise in construction consulting and Owner’s Representation.
FC Cincinnati set record inclusion rates in the construction of TQL stadium. FC Cincinnati owners expect the same standard with the construction of this development. FC Cincinnati has pledged to meet or exceed the city and Port’s inclusion goals for construction of this project.