Blockwatch 45223 Homeownership Project Overview
Defined by the boundaries of Chase Avenue on the north, Blue Rock Street on the south, Lakeman Street on the east and Kirby Avenue on the west, the Blockwatch 45223 Homeownership Project (the "Blockwatch Project") is also designed to increase homeownership in a depressed and densely built area in Northside that has been overwhelmed by a disproportionate increase in foreclosures, vacant, blighted buildings and crime. CNCURC identified redevelopment of Hanfield Street between Witler and Gordon streets and the first block of Witler Street between Blue Rock and Hanfield streets the most vital to the success of the Blockwatch Project.
Phase One
Phase One of the Blockwatch Project called for acquisition of five properties earmarked for rehabilitation, demolition of eight derelict buildings and construction of one green single-family house on a site preciously occupied by two buildings. CNCURC acquired two buildings through private donation, funded acquisition of three buildings and demolition of one of the two derelict buildings donated with funds awarded from the Illegal Flippers Fund, and purchased a fourth building with proceeds from previous sales. Federal Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) 1 funds allocated to the Cincinnati Department of Buildings and Inspections for demolition of hazardous buildings in Northside funded demolition of the second house donated to CNCURC and six additional derelict buildings located within the Blockwatch Project area. City of Cincinnati Department of Community Development HUD NSP 1 funds allocated to CNCURC funded the purchase and rehabilitation of the fifth and final house identified as part of Phase One.
Due to the Ohio Department of TransportationŐs proposed redesign of the I-75/I-74 Interchange and the I-74 Colerain Exit which will result in the elimination of two expressway ramps in Northside and the Cincinnati Department of Traffic EngineeringŐs plan to modify the Colerain and Blue Rock entry into the Northside Business District, redevelopment of the remaining CNCURC-owned properties has been put on hold.