Northern Row Park Renovation & Activation
Help us transform Northern Row Park into a space where our community can gather to enjoy and support local artists.
About the project
History of the Park
Approximately 20 years ago, OTR neighbors raised funds to turn an abandoned parking lot into a neighborhood park, allowing for the installation of a fence around the park, excavation of the concrete and the installation of pavers and green space.
Since the transformation 20 years ago, almost no investment has been made in the park, beyond a volunteer cleanup several times a year.
Today, the space is almost entirely used as a dog park.
We want to change that!
The Steps
2020 Renovation
The current capital budget includes treating two of the last remaining ash trees in the City (found in the park), installing a new gate on the southeast entrance that was stolen (made by local artist Ursula Roma), building retaining walls around the middle flower bed and installing a small stage.
The current operating budget includes activating the space as more than just a dog part by starting “Second Saturday at Northern Row Park,” a monthly event in partnership with Kick Lee and the Cincinnati Music Accelerator, focusing on black and brown artists from throughout the area.
Our first event in Saturday, October 10 from 6-9pm and will highlight singer/songwriter Aprina Johnson.
The partnership with Kick Lee includes the monthly, temporary installation of 6 picnic tables, 5 cafe tables and chairs, umbrellas, sound, lighting and booking the talent.
The goal of the monthly event is to bring neighbors together in a safe, socially distanced, outside environment to build fellowship, invest in black and brown local artists and provide an evening of entertainment, relaxation and fun.
Budget
Capital Improvements:
1) Treat Ash Trees by licensed arborist: $400
2) New gate by local artists Ursula Roma: $600
3) Retaining walls for flower beds: $2,400
4) Stage with pergola: $6,000
5) Maintenance and plantings: $2,000
Total: $12,000
Operating expenses:
We have contracted with Kick Lee’s Cincinnati Music Accelerator. For $1,500/month, he is bringing in sound, lighting, six picnic tables, five cafe tables and chairs, umbrellas and local black and brown performers.
1)Two performances in 2020: $3,000
2) Nine performances in 2021: $13,500
3) Signage for the park and sponsors: $500
4) Miscellaneous expenses $1,000
Total: $18,000
Total Project: $30,000
Why we‘re doing it
We want to build community through socially distanced, outdoor events that bring people together in the times we're living in, while mostly investing in mostly black and brown, local artists.