Turning Demolished Properties In 'Bright Sites'

We are now seeing some progress on the Bright Sites initiative.

Bright Sites aims to turn around vacant lots left by the demolition of blighted properties. Those demolitions are being funded by the state's Moving Ohio Forward program.

Bright Sites provides workforce training for people who are difficult to employ, recycles demolition debris diverting it from the landfill, and adds value and quality of like to neighborhoods by beautifying the sites that would otherwise become overgrown with weeds and strewn with litter.

Avondale: Before & After

The mulch you see in the photos is made by Building Value (non-profit reuse/recycle and training program) from wood demolition debris recycled from the buildings demolished. The Building Value trainees, who have workforce disadvantages, learn  landscaping skills by installing the landscaping and fences. The 3- to 9-month program removes barriers to staying employed as well, such as lack of high school diploma, child care, or transportation etc.

The fences are made by individuals with disabilities from recycled material through Easter Seals' Building Ability program. The people with Building Ability learn valuable skills while receiving paid work experience.

North Fairmount: Before & After

The site pictured in North Fairmount is next to a church, and the one in Avondale is across from an elementary school.

Keep Cincinnati Beautiful, which administers the program, indicates they will have dozens of sites completed before winter weather. 

Evanston: Before & After