U.S. Senator George Voinovich (R-OH) affirmed his support for Cincinnati Riverfront Park during a visit to its construction site last Monday.

Voinovich, a member of the Senate's Environment and Public Works Committee, was critical in securing a $30 million federal authorization to begin construction of the 45-acre park.

Now, the Cincinnati Park Board would like that authorization expanded to $80 million – with $40 million in capital funding coming from the federal government.

The remainder of the park's $100 million-plus cost would come from City, state, and private sources.

"From my days as mayor I have always been a champion of public-private partnerships just like this," Voinovich said. "I applaud the way that the private sector is working towards their goal of $40 million dollars, after already stepping up to the plate with $7 million to fund this park. Throughout my life I have always said 'together we can do it,' and this is great example of all parties working together. "

Phase I of Cincinnati Riverfront Park, including numerous water features, a tree grove and gardens, an event lawn and stage, a labyrinth, bike facilities, and a monument to the Black Brigade of Cincinnati, is on budget and scheduled to open in spring 2011, said Cincinnati Parks Director Willie Carden.

When completed, the park will extend from east of Great American Ball Park to Paul Brown Stadium.

"As a destination park, Cincinnati Riverfront Park will drive people into the city, from throughout the world and walks of life – citizens, business people, tourists, new residents and others," Carden said. "Cincinnati Riverfront Park – together with The Banks – has the power to fuel significant economic development, tourism and commerce for southwest Ohio and the entire region."

Photo courtesy of the Cincinnati Park Board.

Previous reading on BC:
Park Board seeking artists for Cincinnati Riverfront Park (11/11/09)
Fund established for riverfront park, public artists named (9/21/09)
Cincinnati to enter agreement with Army Corps on riverfront park (7/1/09)
$2.97M Cincinnati Riverfront Park grant application approved (6/22/09)
Ohio grant could aid first phase of Cincinnati Riverfront Park (6/15/09)