CINCINNATI — The American Planning Association (APA) today named Over-the-Rhine (OTR) in Cincinnati, Ohio, as one of five Great Neighborhoods on APA’s annual Great Places in America list, which marks the kick-off of the organization’s National Community Planning Month celebration.

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Once one of the most economically challenged areas of Cincinnati, OTR now shines as one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. While still facing many of the same challenges endured by many historic urban communities across the country, OTR serves as a national model of neighborhood revitalization. Cincinnati’s detailed and hard-fought planning efforts have augmented the virtually unrivaled historic nature of Over-the-Rhine, and will undoubtedly help to preserve the neighborhood’s legacy.

As an honor, Mayor John Cranley declared Oct. 4, 2017 “Over-the-Rhine ‘Great Neighborhood’ Day” in Cincinnati.

“The designation of Over-the-Rhine as a Great Neighborhood of America is an honor, and gives ode to the renaissance Cincinnati has undergone to reactivate our city's core,” said Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley. “I am thrilled with our progress, proud of our business and community leaders, and optimistic about the future we have to look forward to.”

“The resurgence of Over-the-Rhine would not be possible without the unwavering support of a variety of community stakeholders including the passionate residents and business owners who call the neighborhood home,” added City Manager Harry Black. “This designation is a testament to the dedicated individuals who’ve worked to make OTR a truly great neighborhood.”

APA’s Great Places in America program, celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, recognizes streets, neighborhoods, and public spaces in the United States demonstrating exceptional character, quality, and planning—attributes that enrich communities, facilitate economic growth, and inspire others around the country. The Great Neighborhoods, Great Streets, and Great Public Spaces of 2017 are places that are unique and exemplary in their amenities and infrastructure, cultural identity, and use of sustainable and innovative practices.

In addition to Over-the-Rhine, APA also recognized the following Great Neighborhoods this year:

• Seward – Minneapolis, Minnesota
• Heart of Missoula – Missoula, Montana
• Uptown Greenwood – Greenwood, South Carolina
• Pearl – San Antonio, Texas

“The neighborhoods recognized this year are proof that planning creates more vibrant, equitable, healthy neighborhoods,” said Cynthia Bowen, AICP, president of APA. “Through dedicated, community-wide engagement efforts, this year’s designees are creating better places for all, and setting an example for other neighborhoods nationwide. Congratulations to these exceptional neighborhoods.”