Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit: Project Support
The Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit (OHPTC) Program is a highly competitive state-level program providing tax credits to leverage private redevelopment of historic buildings.
The City of Cincinnati provides letters of support to projects in city limits to give Cincinnati projects a more competitive application. Support letters include a local letter of support signed by the Mayor of Cincinnati and a financial commitment letter from the Office of Strategic Growth (OSG) documenting the project’s eligibility for a Commercial or Residential CRA Tax Abatement.
Goal
Cincinnati has a housing supply shortage; matched with increased demand, this leads to higher housing costs and a deficit of affordable housing options for residents. In recognition of this, OSG aims to activate and encourage proactive and targeted housing development, supporting quality and diverse housing options, as well as supportive housing services for a variety of income levels. Cincinnati’s is home to some of the oldest housing stock in the country, with up to 30% of listings built before 1940, and over 60% built before 2000. Funding local projects through the OHPTC is a crucial piece of revitalizing deteriorating structures, preserving our historic architectural fabric, and bringing new housing units online.
Who Can Apply?
Developers of Historic Preservation Projects intending to apply for State Historic Tax Credits
Overview of Process
OHFA accepts applications on an annual basis, typically in January or February. Approximately two months before each year’s application due date, the City of Cincinnati support letter request form will open on the OSG website as linked below.
Interested affordable housing developers should follow the instructions and fill out the form below when it is available. After the project’s evaluation and approval of support, the letters are sent back to applicants for use in their application to OHFA.
Timeline
The requests for letters of support for OHPTC Round 37 are open until 5 PM EST, Friday, August 21, 2026.
Online OHPTC Letter of Support Request Form
For more information contact: rich.palmer@cincinnati-oh.gov
Documents and Helpful Links: Ohio Development Services Agency OHPTC Information [Webpage]