Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley Announces Two New Initiatives to Support Bars & Restaurants at The Banks
Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley announced two new initiatives to support and drive revenue to bars, restaurants and retail at The Banks. The plan includes a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) at The Banks as well as the creation of a pedestrian walkway on the most eastern block of Freedom Way. Both initiatives are in the planning phases and are working toward an opening by Cincinnati Reds Opening Day, planned for April 1, 2021.
The DORA designation will allow patrons of participating eateries and pubs to carry up to a 16 ounce open alcoholic beverage in a designated cup anywhere within the boundaries of The Banks from Heritage Bank Center to Paul Brown Stadium and from Mehring Way to Second Street. To create the pedestrian walkway and urban park setting, Freedom Way will be permanently closed to vehicular traffic between Joe Nuxhall Way and Walnut Street. This closure will also provide additional outdoor service areas for those bars and restaurants.
“With the creation of a DORA and pedestrian walkway at The Banks, we open the opportunity for more outdoor dining and entertainment options as well as more vibrancy and revenue at The Banks,” said Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley. “This next phase of energy and experiences at The Banks will provide a boost to our restaurants and bars when they need it most.”
“We look forward to the excitement these initiatives will bring to Opening Day and every day at The Banks,” said Phil Castellini, COO of the Cincinnati Reds. “We thank Mayor Cranley for helping to build upon the robust and continuously evolving vision for this area.”
“The Mayor’s announcement is much needed good news as we close this year of innovation and perseverance - for all at The Banks,” said Jim Moehring, co-owner of The Holy Grail Tavern & Grille at The Banks. “These initiatives provide new avenues for growth as we solve against current challenges, and tremendous opportunity as all of us move forward.”