Overview:
TIF captures future gains in tax revenues to finance current improvements that will create the conditions for those future gains.  The future gains in tax revenue occur due to the increased property values resulting from infrastructure improvements and investments such as new or rehabilitated buildings.  The increased tax revenues are the ‘tax increment.’

The City of Cincinnati allows tax increments within certain defined geographical areas to be redirected to special funds used to finance debt issued to pay for public infrastructure projects.  TIF revenues in Cincinnati are often used to fund public improvements designed to spur private development.  

Eligible/Ineligible Uses:
Public improvements are generally eligible to utilize TIF funding.  Improvements that do not serve a public purpose are not eligible.  A TIF-funded project can be completed in conjunction with a private development if the TIF-funded project serves an eligible public purpose.

TIF Districts vs. Project TIF:
The City of Cincinnati has designated several geographical areas as TIF Districts (see link to map below).  Tax increments within a TIF district are diverted to a special fund to pay for eligible public improvements within that defined area.

In areas outside of designated TIF districts, City Council may specially approve a private development to utilize TIF funding of a related public improvement.  In this case, TIF funds are available only in the amount of future increased tax revenues that can be expected as a result of the private investment.

Please note that all uses of either type of TIF revenue must be specifically authorized by City Council.

Examples of TIF Economic Development Projects:
• Corryville Crossings - Hampton Inn hotel constructed in conjunction with TIF funding for public parking garage.
• Oakley Business District - Streetscape and traffic improvements.
• Columbia Square – Large commercial real estate development completed in conjunction with Project TIF used for public parking lots.
• East Walnut Hills Streetscape - Undergrounding of utilities in public right-of-way..
• Over-the-Rhine Gateway Quarter – Commercial and housing developments completed in conjunction with TIF funding for Vine Street streetscape improvements.

Links:
Download TIF District Map (PDF)
Download City TIF Policy - Enacted 8-1-07 (PDF)

Contact:
Ed Ratterman, Senior Development Officer
Phone: (513) 352-6258
Fax: (513) 352-6257
ed.ratterman@cincinnati-oh.gov