jmblec2

Check out the progress being made on some buildings on East McMillan. See more pictures on the Walnut Hills Redevelopment Facebook page.

Maybe it will be the new small Best Busy concept.

Has there been any progress/updates on this effort? or anyone know of any insider information?

Great write up.

I do not think the free drinks is a valid complaint. It has nothing to do with the casino it self, its a state law. Casinos where you get free drinks are Vegas, Atlantic city, and Indian reservations. Closest place that offers free drinks is Seneca Casino in NY. Now I did hear beer was around 5 to 6 bucks. That is a little steep. Should be more like 3.

The fountains probably use a lot less energy than all the lights in the park, or the streetlights on any given street. Also, the water is likely recycled like it is in most fountains, unlike at Fountain Square where the water is always fresh, potable drinking water - which was part of the agreement with the city when the fountain was gifted by Henry Probasco. As far as fountains go, I'm sure these are far more efficient than Cincy's most famous fountain. Did I read that right, that is fresh water that constantly runs in the fountain square fountain? I did not know that. I guess now when i see people drinking out of it, or putting the water on their face I won't think it is as bad.

hopefully this will clean that little corner up a bit. That arby's was so dirty, and i still ate their.

I would think they are re-branding to try and cater to a new audience (an older one). With the new restaurants opening across the street and the new hotel opening up.

That is the great thing about casinos, all walks of life are welcome. People get to interact with people they might not have other wise. It makes it fun. Everyone's money is good there.

Which is why it's imperative to continue to boost the residential numbers not only at The Banks, but throughout the rest of downtown and OTR. The more people who are actually living there and using these restaurants/stores on a regular basis - and not just once every two months when they go to a game, the less that they'll have to depend on suburban visitors or out-of-town travelers. It would be nice if the visitors were the icing on the cake, not the actual cake itself. This is very important! More people living downtown. Does anyone know when the second apartment building is set to start construction?

^ that would be my guess. A "soft" opening of sorts. Or it could be that was the earlist they were able to open. Instead of loosing revenue and waiting till Friday to open, eventhough the state is allowing them to open on Monday.

Yes I know that part will be unique but you really can't deny that our skyline is missing that unique building that stands out like other cities have (Freedom Tower NYC, US Bank Tower LA, Willis Tower Chicago etc.). I don't know maybe I'm wanting to much from a city that is recovering and re-inventing itself but at the same time. I just want to see that one building that will make me say WOW Well it doesn't make you say WOW. But I think in Cleveland it would be the Key tower, it is the tallest building in Ohio.

Does anyone know when the next phase of apartments are set to start construction?

^ or the stamp store.

do you know why they want to tear it down?

I think it's a no brainer it will be successful in the long run. You go to any casino around Ohio (PA, WV,NY,IN) the majority of the cars in the parking lots/garages have Ohio plates. Also it can become even more successful if the downtown area continues to build off the recent developments and the med mart turns into a great success, lots of out of towners looking to kill some time while on business trips. I hope it works out well for Cleveland.

What are the rates?

+ 1 on craigslist. Even large apartment buildings with leasing staff post on craigslist.

food looks good.

There is a lot of activity at this site. Does anyone know what the plans are for the old firehouse? Looks like the inside is being gutted.

^ my other thought was how would they do that if they have the ability to add 5 floors at a later date?

^sounds like it could be a pretty cool building!!

me too.

^great pics! Thanks for sharing

^ been there twice for lunch, service is very very slow, food is good but over priced