In The News

2 new residential communities planned in West Chester

September 19, 2012  |  New Residential Communities West Chester Ohio

By Hannah Poturalski

Hamilton Journal News

WEST CHESTER TWP. —

Two new residential communities — providing about 450 units — are in the works for West Chester Twp. in the downtown area near Union Centre Boulevard.

The two development plans will come before the township’s zoning commission, which will meet from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 15 at the West Chester Administration Building, Township Hall, 9113 Cincinnati-Dayton Road.

The first residential community — presently dubbed the “Cascades at Union Centre” — is being developed by Capital Investment Group, Inc., according to township documents. The community will have approximately 180 units and some first-level retail space fronting Centre Pointe Drive, just south of The Square and West Chester Towne Centre.

The second proposed development, “The Lofts” by developer Hills Properties, will have approximately 272 units. The Lofts will be joining the owner-occupied residential community adjacent to The Streets of West Chester, according to township officials.

“By introducing a critical mass of people into an area rich with restaurants, retail, corporate development and civic amenities, communities develop a sense of place and a vibrant core which has always been the vision for Union Centre,” said Township Administrator Judith Boyko. “With this critical mass, our Downtown will thrive, continue to be an excellent investment for future developers and therefore will support the ongoing sustainability for the community as a whole.”

Both developments will offer apartments with rents greater than $1,200 per month and are within walking distance of restaurants, retail and other amenities, as well as key employment centers. Township officials said these developments appeal to a new audience of “renters by choice,” couples and individuals — fed by the Gen Y demographic and vibrant baby boomer population — who choose to rent rather than own because they don’t want the burden of home ownership.

These new developments will add to existing projects including The Square @ Union Centre, the West Chester Library and Beckett Park. West Chester Twp. is the largest township in the state of Ohio, with a diverse and extensive economic base of nearly 3,000 businesses, according to township officials.

“West Chester is ranked as one of the best places to live in America and one of the reasons is this level of thoughtful consideration of development and how each piece builds on and supports the next,” said Larry Brueshaber, president of the West Chester Development Council.