The Port – A Lesson in Optimism
By: Toby Kerstiens, Development Intern
I began my co-op with the Port in May of this year, just after finishing my third year studying urban planning at the University of Cincinnati. At UC, planning studios teach us to think creatively about places and develop a strong vision for what they can become. Joining the Port introduced an immediate contrast to this, as I quickly shifted into thinking critically about how we bring these visions to life.
Working with the commercial and industrial team within the Port’s Real Estate Services division, I had the privilege of contributing to unique rehabilitation projects around Cincinnati. I most often supported in site management of the historic Lunkenheimer District, a group of vacant buildings in South Fairmount that were once home to a valve manufacturing company. The Lunkenheimer Buildings, like many of the sites my team works with, are brownfields. Through hands-on participation in managing Lunkenheimer, I gained an understanding of the long assessment and remediation process that former industrial sites must go through before they are ready for reuse. I visited the Lunkenheimer District several times over the summer and met with the Port’s contractors about the site’s stabilization and remediation needs. This year, we began collaborating with architects who shared with us their renderings of the future of the site, which were inspiring to see.
Even more important than environmental work is the task of securing funding to make these projects happen. I realized quickly how complex the funding world is, and I dived into this aspect of the Port’s work by drafting and analyzing budgets and by applying for grants. Beyond predevelopment, much of my work consisted of creating maps to fill various Port needs. This helped me gain a wider view of the organization’s work. Particularly inspiring to me was the residential team’s work in Sedamsville, where they are managing the simultaneous renovation of eighteen historic homes. I created a map of these homes, and I was honored that it was used at the ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the first home listing in June.
Reflecting on the whole of my summer internship here at the Port, I have been most impressed by the determination with which we approach our work. Despite the difficult, lengthy remediation processes our industrial sites require, and the challenging task of securing funding for these, I always felt like my team knew they could do it. Everyone at the Port operates with a belief that their efforts will improve the neighborhoods they work in and make a positive difference here in Cincinnati, and they have a genuine commitment to following through. Interning with the Port was a lesson in the challenges that stand in the way of urban development. Ironically, it was also a lesson in optimism. When you understand the complexity of a project, you find the value in finishing it.
Thank you to the Port for having me.