Proposed Use of TIF Funds for Former White Castle Lot Acquisition in Northside
Background
Northsiders Engaged in Sustainable Transformation (NEST), the Northside Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation, is a nonprofit focused on community development for Northside. NEST has entered into a sale agreement with the landowner, contingent upon securing financing. White Castle's corporate entity has applied to raze the former restaurant and parking lot; they are awaiting Historic Conservation Board approval in late October 2025.
Proposed Project
The project involves acquiring approximately half an acre at 3940 Old Ludlow Avenue and 4000 Spring Grove Avenue, currently zoned CC-M-T and located in the Northside NBD historic district. The site is currently owned by 3940 Old Ludlow LLC, which has leased to White Castle over 50 years. There is currently no definite plan for these parcels. However, the parcels are at a key six-way intersection, Knowlton's Corner, and serve as a gateway to Northside. The parcels are also in the Northside Historic District and Hamilton Avenue Neighborhood Business District (NBD).
The parcels might be used to help make a more intentional connection between the NBD and the nearby Milll Creek Greenway Trail, a community asset that is being developed by Tri-State Trails in partnership with The Port and City. The parcels can also strengthen the historic Knowlton's Corner, a community gathering space and key intersection for over 200 years. NEST seeks a grant from Northside TIF district funds for the property purchase and related expenses, totaling around $450,000 or less.
Location of Proposed Project
Location of Proposed Project
3940 Old Ludlow Avenue and 4000 Spring Grove Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45223
Upcoming Public Meetings
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Community Engagement Meeting
Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at 5:30 PM
Held virtually on Zoom.
To register, fill out the form at the following link: https://cincinnati-oh.zoom.us/meeting/register/DbLXxbY8QYSJGerPwRBhWA#/registration
The purpose of this meeting is to present information about the proposed project and collect public input and feedback on the proposals and allocation of funds. If you would like to submit a written comment, please submit it to the contact listed below no later than 5:00 PM on Friday, November 14, 2025. Please note that all written public comments received will be included in a post-meeting memo packet that will be made available to the public and are considered public records.
Contact
Dariah Williams, Community Engagement Specialist
dariah.williams@cincinnati-oh.gov | (513) 477-5171