Main Street Pop-Up Program Launches in OTR

3CDC Operating Program on Behalf of City with Goal of Filling Vacant Storefronts

CINCINNATI (June 5, 2023) –The Main Street Pop-Up Program that was recently announced as part of the effort to reactivate Main Street from Central Parkway to Liberty Street officially launched today. Cincinnati Center City Development Corp. (3CDC), which is operating the program on behalf of the City of Cincinnati, is accepting applications from interested entrepreneurs at www.DowntownCincinnati.com/pop-up-program.

The Pop-up Program, which resulted from the work of the public-private Main Street Task Force, is being undertaken along with other efforts to reinvigorate Main Street, including a significant investment in the pedestrianization of Woodward Street.

With many vacant storefronts along Main Street from Central Parkway to Liberty Street, a pop-up program offering the opportunity for short-term leases and potential financial incentives for prospective tenants seemed uniquely suited for the area. In addition to activating these vacant spaces, the program gives entrepreneurs a chance to test their concept before committing to a longer-term lease. As a result, the program will be mutually beneficial to both small businesses and the community alike. The program has the potential to support several small businesses in one space and increase foot traffic to operators who currently reside on Main Street by offering new, exciting concepts that complement the recent physical improvements to Ziegler Park, which has been expanded to Main Street in the 1300 block of the street.

“The Main Street District and the surrounding area is a pivotal economic and community corridor that drives a great deal of positive activity to Over-the-Rhine through park programming and unique small businesses,” said Lindzie Gunnels, Commercial Leasing Manager with 3CDC. “We’re hopeful that bringing life back to these vacant storefronts will help add vibrancy to the area.”

In its role of program administrator, 3CDC will review submitted applications and work with interested entrepreneurs to find the right space. The vacant storefronts are owned by a variety of developers and individuals, including 3CDC, Urban Sites, and private owners. Additional program details, including the application and a map of vacant spaces, can be found at: www.DowntownCincinnati.com/pop-up-program. There is no deadline for submitting applications, but 3CDC will begin reviewing applications as soon as they are received, with the goal of filling all spaces as quickly as possible.

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