Presented by NORTHERN KENTUCKY MARKET REVIEW 2021

Finding NKY’s Regional Voice Initiative aims to unite region, capitalize on its strengths, drive community progress

Underwriters

MO 65251 MO

FULTON

Permit #38 Permit

PAID Lanereport.com

ELECTRONIC SERVICE REQUESTED SERVICE ELECTRONIC U.S. POSTAGE U.S. PRST STD PRST

465 E. High St., Suite 124, Lexington KY 40507 40507 KY Lexington 124, Suite St., High E. 465 $12 NORTHERN KENTUCKY REAL ESTATE OPPORTUNITIES RESIDENTIAL • OFFICE • LAND • MIXED-USE

ON THE RIVERFRONT Ovation Phase II – Office & Hotel

Corporex offers a wide variety of real estate opportunities in Northern Kentucky: 187 all-new luxury apartments at Madison Place with river views; 200,000 sf of office space at Atlantic Corporate Center located in CirclePort near the airport; and a 25-acre mixed-use development Ovation in Newport, Phase II is now underway featuring a 100,000 sf Class A office and hotel, the $40 million concert venue is now complete, and more than 900 residential units, restaurants, and retail are in development.

ADJACENT TO CVG AIRPORT

Atlantic Corporate Center – located in CirclePort just minutes from the airport

For over 55 years, the Corporex family of companies has developed, owned and operated institutional quality assets in markets throughout the United States. With a development portfolio of over 25 million square feet of Class A commercial, residential, and recreational real estate, the company remains one of the leading privately held, vertically-integrated owner/operators of commercial real estate in the nation. Headquartered in Covington, Kentucky, Corporex is proud to be part of the history and growth of Northern Kentucky.

To learn more about our opportunities 859.292.5503 www.corporex.com Select your perfect Kentucky location Find your new Kentucky home with the state’s revamped online site selection tool. Kentucky’s new and improved sites and buildings selection platform offers site selectors a more robust, data- driven tool for finding locations that meet any company’s specific needs. Over 97% of site selection screening takes place online, making the launch of SelectKentucky.com an imperative step in driving Kentucky forward. Powered by GIS Planning and ZoomProspector, the system offers immediate access to in-depth, reliable data, providing decision makers with the tools they need to find the perfect location. The Bluegrass means business.

(800) 626-2930 SelectKentucky.com

CABINET FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NORTHERN KENTUCKY MARKET REVIEW 2021 Photo by Drone Dialog, dronedialog.com Financial Services ...... 43 ON THE COVER Table of Contents Legal Services...... 48 Northern Kentucky is a diverse community connected by forward-thinking leaders, Made in NKY...... 50 engaged residents, and the robust business People & Places...... 4 Headquarters...... 54 and industry sectors pictured. On the top row, OneNKY Alliance...... 8 The Greater Good...... 56 from left: Gravity Diagnostics is part of NKY’s NKY Tri-ED...... 10 Arts & Culture...... 59 growing tech/life sciences sector; CVG is a Cover Story...... 12 Tourism & Attractions ...... 62 major economic engine; and the Florence Y’all Demographics...... 17 Sports & Recreation...... 66 water tower welcomes I-75 travelers to NKY. Riverfront development...... 18 Middle row, left to right: a $1.5 billion Amazon Utilities...... 68 Air Hub, the world’s first, opens in 2021; NKY Real Estate is a U.S. hub for advanced manufacturing; and (sponsored by Corporex)...... 20 Verst Logistics is part of a booming logistics/ Construction COUNTY DATA transportation sector. Bottom row, from left: (sponsored by Hemmer)...... 22 Boone County...... 70 The Ascent at Roebling’s Bridge is an iconic Workforce Development...... 26 Campbell County...... 70 riverfront landmark; NKU collaborates closely Education...... 28 Gallatin County...... 71 with business leaders to meet local workforce needs; and St. Elizabeth Healthcare is a top Innovation & Entrepreneurship...... 32 Grant County...... 71 regional employer. Health Care Kenton County...... 72 (sponsored by St. Elizabeth)...... 34 Pendleton County...... 72 Presented by Logistics & Transportation Clermont County, OH...... 73 (sponsored by CVG)...... 38 Hamilton County, OH...... 73

Founder Vice President/Editorial Director Vice President of Production Senior Marketing Strategist ED LANE MARK GREEN JESSICA MERRIMAN HAL MOSS (1985-2015) Senior Editor Director of Digital Marketing Marketing Strategist KAREN BAIRD MATTHEW MOORE NATALIE PITMAN Owner/Publisher KEVIN O. STINNETT Market Review Editor Creative Services Digital Marketing Strategist LORIE HAILEY STONE ADVISORY KRISTINA DAHL Chief Operating Officer JAKE KRATZENBERG Marketing Consultant CURTISS SMITH

Northern Kentucky Market Review is a community profile published by The Lane Report, Data in Northern Kentucky Market Review have been provided by many local state and Inc. For information and advertising rates, contact The Lane Report, Inc., 465 E. High St., federal agencies, including the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development and the Suite 124, Lexington, KY 40507, (859) 244-3500, lanereport.com Kentucky State Data Center. All data are believed to be accurate and current, but are not warranted by The Lane Report. © 2021 The Lane Report, Inc. All material in this publication is protected under applicable copyright laws. Reprinting or using any materials from Northern Kentucky Market Review is prohibited without express written consent by the publisher.

2 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com Northern Kentucky – Finding strength in unity City of Florence photo Dear Reader,

The Northern Kentucky region is resilient, welcoming and rapidly adapting to new realities as we enter 2021. We are proud to offer this comprehensive look at our beloved community, the place we call home. The Northern Kentucky Market Review offers candid insights from our leaders, both private and public, who continue to invest in our economy, our workforce and our future. Our broader community offers untapped opportunity – we invite you to join us and explore our potential.

Welcome! Karen Finan President and CEO, OneNKY Alliance

Lee Crume President and CEO Northern Kentucky Tri-County Economic Development (Tri-ED)

CORPORATE SPONSORS

lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 3 PEOPLE & PLACES

United and excited NKY has it all: Innovative thinkers, educated workforce, inclusive community Photo courtesy of Florence Y’alls

pNEW NAME The Northern Kentucky baseball team once called the Florence Freedom changed its name in early 2020 to the Florence Y’alls, paying homage to the iconic Florence Y’all water tower that welcomes Interstate 75 drivers to NKY. City of Covington photo pTRANSFORMING NEIGHBORHOODS Covington officials helped cut the ribbon, 2020-style, on two new single- family homes constructed on vacant parcels once owned by the city. The parcels were sold in 2019 as part of a city program that aimed to return once-blighted property to productive use.

uPANORAMIC PERSPECTIVE The paved trails at Devou Park are the perfect way to explore all the area. The winding paths traverse the entire park, including Memorial Overlook, where there’s a breathtaking panoramic view of both the Cincinnati and Covington riverfronts. PERFECT BLEND Northern Kentucky offers the charm of small-town living coupled with the amenities of big-city life, thanks to being just a bridge away from Cincinnati. Thomas More photo uSTRONG RESULTS Thomas More University’s fall 2020 traditional enrollment was the second largest in its history. Located in Crestview Hills, the private university typically serves about 2,000 students. qSAFETY FIRST Newport on the Levee found ways to help guests stay safe but still have fun during the pandemic.

Phot courtesy of Newport on the Levee

Photo courtesy of Newport on the Levee uSOCIAL-DISTANCE FUN Bridgeview Box Park at Newport on the Levee offered guests a place to enjoy the riverfront, watch the Cincinnati Reds play, and be social while having the space to spread out for safety.

tPAINTING THE PAST A series of floodwall murals commemorate the city of Newport’s 225th anniversary. The project was a collaboration between Southbank Partners, the City of Newport, NKU Scripps Howard Center for Civic Engagement and The Newport History Museum at Southgate Street School. lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 5 PEOPLE & PLACES uVILLAGE VISTA Goebel Park in Covington’s MainStrasse Village is best known for its iconic German-style Carroll Chimes Clock Tower, which displays a charming mechanical puppet show of the Pied Piper on the hour, April through December. qCIRCUS MEETS BEER Bircus Brewing in Ludlow is described as a place where the “surreal world of circus meets the love of beer.” At Bircus, performers juggle clubs, breathe fire, hula hoop, walk on kegs and amaze on the trapeze and with their aerial silks.

City of Covington photo

uFAT TUESDAY The MainStrasse Village Mardi Gras Parade brings a taste of New Orleans to Covington each February. qOHIO RIVER OASIS Smale Riverfront Park is 45 acres of urban green space along the riverfront between Great American Ball Park and Paul Brown Stadium. It offers entertainment for all ages – from porch swings and river views to interactive fountains and a giant foot piano.

pFAN FAVORITE Otto’s, a neighborhood bistro in the unique MainStrasse Village, is a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. It serves American and southern-inspired fare.

6 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com pART INFUSION “Around the Corner,” a mural installation by the Brooklyn-based collective known as FAILE, covers the rear walls of two buildings on the corner of 6th Street and Madison Avenue in Covington.

qA CHAMBER TRADITION The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Outing at Summit Hills Country Club offers a chance for chamber members to network with clients and customers – and take fun photos. NKY Chamber photo NKY

pVIEW FROM ABOVE An aerial view of Northern Kentucky University shows its beautiful landscape and its use of solar energy. qLANDMARK VIEW The iconic John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, which opened to traffic in January 1867, connects Covington and Cincinnati and was a prototype for the celebrated Brooklyn Bridge. The river crossing was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1975. City of Covington photo

pSUPPORTING EQUALITY Several Covington crosswalks are painted to look like the Rainbow Flag, commonly known as the gay pride flag. Covington passed a human rights ordinance in 2003, expressing its dedication to equal and fair treatment for all citizens and visitors. lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 7 ONENKY ALLIANCE OneNKY moves community forward Organization aims to transform NKY by uniting leaders around vital regional initiatives

UR community has long recognized The OneNKY Alliance is a group of pPHYSICAL PRESENCE The OneNKY the need to build on bold ideas leading CEOs dedicated to the future of Frankfort house is a branded location near the that lend themselves to the future Northern Kentucky. The organization’s Kentucky Capitol that offers NKY organizations O and leaders an opportunity to convene, strategize of Northern Kentucky. With each visioning focus on a variety of regional initiatives and provide collective impact. process, we have progressed, matured, since 2017 has generated key results for and achieved key objectives related to the community. The OneNKY Alliance has governance, job growth, community conducted multiple regional summits with vibrancy and much more. stakeholders including community and This is what the OneNKY We now find business leaders, elected officials, educators, Alliance is about, and the opportunity, amplified by and health professionals to collect ideas and most effective way forward the need to continue our convene growth organizations to move the – together as one.” upward trajectory, through community forward. Consider just a few inclusion and fairness. And Formerly known as the Northern of the OneNKY early these are the bold ideas Kentucky Regional Alliance, we recently successes and concepts Garren Colvin, that when implemented, rebranded as OneNKY Alliance because we underway: President/CEO, Karen Finan, St. Elizabeth provide a voice for NKY. President/CEO, want to emphasize the strength we have OneNKY Frankfort at Healthcare The OneNKY movement OneNKY as a community when we move forward 418 Capital Ave., within looks to unify our Alliance together, as one. And to show that we walking distance of the Kentucky Capitol, community through a larger voice, more are unified as we build our community allows for a presence and larger voice efficient governance and higher standards and region for the future. While we have as we accelerate growth, pursue policy of living for all community members. It is always believed in this power of one, we are and secure funding for our future. This a direction that propels us forward and will showing it now more than ever. strategic coworking facility has been met be achieved through passion for change “These are compelling times for with much enthusiasm and success in its and dogged pursuit of excellence. We Northern Kentucky,” said Garren Colvin, first operating year. An initiative of the come together because doing so allows us president and CEO of St. Elizabeth OneNKY Alliance and member company to innovate and improve our community Healthcare, who serves as chairman for the St. Elizabeth Healthcare, sponsors include together in a way that benefits everyone OneNKY Alliance. “Collectively we must CVG, Corporex, DBL Law, Fischer – and in a way that allows us to expand move our community forward, identifying Homes, Northern Kentucky University, activity by attracting more people, business, innovative and unified approaches to both NKY Chamber of Commerce, Tri-ED and talent and investment to our region. challenges and opportunities along the way. Ziegler & Schneider.

8 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com uSTRATEGICALLY POSITIONED Sponsoring organizations and businesses can use the OneNKY Frankfort house to convene, strategize and provide collective impact. This initiative strategically positions the community with legislators.

The future OneNKY HQ building, planned for Covington, will centralize our regional growth organizations under one roof, allowing us to easily share resources, align strategies and accelerate growth. We have been on this journey as a community for quite a while. Since 1981, every visioning effort has called for a multi- association building. Accelerated efforts over the past two years with OneNKY Alliance partnering with the Catalytic Fund and leading developer Corporex has placed this project on the fast track. The impact is already apparent. The need for a larger voice calls for “We are focused on bold, regional We have set the tone for co-location a tangible plan that instills a sense of outcomes through OneNKY,” said Karen among NKY growth organizations by place, unity and support of the region’s Finan, president and CEO of OneNKY exploring and implementing various branding. In concert with the OneNKY Alliance. “We continue to develop strategies shared services, all with a strong focus facilities, our community can find its around shared services by promoting on what matters for OneNKY and the voice across multiple media platforms, efficiencies throughout our community, strategically aligned. This allows OneNKY offering information and elevated municipalities and nonprofits; education to focus on regional alignment for Boone, awareness of this place we call home – a and health by identifying and eliminating Campbell and Kenton Counties, and the place that thrives now, and will continue inequities; and community vibrancy through 400,000-strong resident population and to do so in the future, so long as we a focus on job growth in key areas. We will businesses served. continue to build it together. continue to position NKY for the future.” l

OneNKYAlliance.com NKY TRI-ED Diverse economy creates bright spots Momentum in Northern Kentucky is strong; businesses find success during challenging times

tBEST OF ALL WORLDS Northern Kentucky offers an unrivaled quality of life that blends urban, suburban and rural amenities to suit every lifestyle. NKY is the third-largest metropolitan area in Kentucky.

and employment centers to attract new people to our region, train our existing workforce and educate our students for future careers. We believe as we attract new people to the region, diversity of ethnicities, religions and sexual orientation will increase. Tri-ED is committed to the meaningful work that ensures racism, discrimination and social injustice do not live in Northern Kentucky. We stand with those in our community who share the belief that every person deserves equal treatment, opportunity, and protection. We also celebrate with the City of Covington, which scored 96 on the 2020 Municipal Equality Index, for being the second highest-scoring city in Kentucky in ratings released by the Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest LGBTQ advocacy group. We commend these Northern Kentucky cities – Bellevue, Highland Heights, Fort Thomas, Cold Spring and Newport – for passing fairness HE year 2020 was certainly a year Gravity Diagnostics, CTI Clinical Trial ordinances over the last two years. like no other. Despite businesses and Consulting Services (CTI) and Ethos Tbeing shut down or at reduced Laboratories grew exponentially and Supporting innovation capacity at various points throughout experienced an incredible increase in Entrepreneurship is a strong economic the year, many companies in a diverse demand for their services. driver and the economic uncertainty array of industries grew and expanded Manufacturers of cleaning products, faced by many in our community will in 2020 with the help of Northern such as Camco Chemical Co. and Best lead to new ideas and new businesses in Kentucky Tri-ED, which showed the Sanitizers expanded; food companies like our region. Blue North, a community for resilience of our region. Schwan’s and Tyson continued to hire; startups and small businesses in Northern While many people worked from home and technology companies like STEP Kentucky, launched as an independent for the first time or helped their children CG and IT Supply Solutions invested organization in 2020 – achieving a learn virtually, 48% of the companies in expansions. Hundreds of new jobs significant goal set by Tri-ED. Blue North Tri-ED assisted in growing in 2020 were were added in our three-county region. is leveraging Northern Kentucky’s unique related to new or expanded offices and With the surge in online shopping by strengths and assets to drive innovation 44% were advanced manufacturing consumers, the DHL Express Superhub in four specific sectors: health (cancer companies. Office layouts and dynamics and Amazon Air Hub at Cincinnati/ diagnostics, screening and treatment may evolve, but companies are investing Northern Kentucky International Airport innovations); supply chain; e-commerce; millions of dollars in Northern Kentucky, (CVG) delivered products to customers at and local growth (food, beverage, distilled creating new spaces and preparing for unprecedented levels all year. spirits and creative services). employees to return to them. To assist the community in supporting Demand for talent a wide range of businesses, Blue North Key business sectors find success leads to diversity partnered with the Northern Kentucky With the coronavirus pandemic, demand To sustain the growth of this region Community Action Commission, for laboratory testing and clinical trials across all sectors, population and MORTAR Covington, Renaissance of new drugs and vaccines increased workforce are key issues for Northern Covington and the Northern Kentucky dramatically. Medical research companies Kentucky Tri-ED. We work with GROW Chamber of Commerce to map Northern in Northern Kentucky played a key (Growing Regional Outcomes through Kentucky’s Black-owned businesses to role in the state and Cincinnati region: Workforce) NKY, our education partners help drive support and resource systems.

10 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com uSHARING SPACE The Northern Kentucky Tri-County Economic Development team, led by President and CEO Lee Crume (shown here), moved into its new headquarters inside the Chamber Center building in Fort Mitchell, where the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce also is located, in late 2019.

The Black-owned business census will strengthen our region’s startup community. Northern Kentucky University has a long tenure of supporting entrepreneurs and the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) was recognized by the Global Consortium Lauren Mulcahy photo of Entrepreneurship Centers as one of three finalists for the 2020 Excellence in Entrepreneurship Teaching and Pedagogical Innovation Award. The CIE was recognized for the third year in a row.

Unity and one voice key initiatives that include education, job the resources necessary for Northern for Northern Kentucky growth, health and community vibrancy. Kentucky’s continued progress. Tri-ED believes that unifying our OneNKY Frankfort is the headquarter The Amazon Air Hub will open at CVG messaging and communication about location for our region’s growth Airport in 2021, development will start Northern Kentucky and our priorities organizations and provides a larger at the 23-acre IRS site in Covington, and is incredibly important. We support the voice for the region in the state’s capital. construction of Phase II of Ovation has OneNKY Alliance, which is centered on We look forward to working with begun. Momentum in Northern Kentucky is moving our community forward around our delegation in Frankfort to secure strong. The future is bright. l

Our region’s talent, accessibility, amenities and business climate make Northern Kentucky ideal for new and growing businesses. Tri-ED brings new companies to the region and helps our high growth businesses expand, creating jobs and driving economic growth. COVER STORY Finding NKY’s regional voice Initiative aims to unite region, capitalize on its strengths, drive community progress

BY LORIE HAILEY

HERE’S a lot to love about Northern Kentucky. Small-town charm, big city Tamenities, collaborative leadership, competitive cost of living, and an educated workforce are just a few of the high points. One of the region’s biggest assets is a unified mission to drive the community forward. And NKY has two things that many regions cannot boast: a group of CEOs from some of its biggest employers working together on initiatives to achieve that mission and an award-winning economic development company working to bring new businesses to the region, grow all being pulled together by a regional pSTRATEGIC ADVOCACY CENTER existing industries and support efforts to approach,” said Karen Finan, president and OneNKY Frankfort, a signature facility within walking distance to the Kentucky Capitol, is a expand the talents of the local workforce. CEO of the organization. physical reminder of NKY, offering a consistent OneNKY Alliance aims to transform Improving the region by joining forces presence and a unified voice on issues important to the community with a variety of bold – “finding our voice,” they say – is the NKY leaders, businesses and residents. initiatives that connect the community driving force behind OneNKY Alliance’s and help drive it forward. Its board of initiatives and its successes. directors is comprised of CEOs who “I am truly energized by the to reflect its efforts on behalf of all of the channel their passion for the region – and Alliance and the CEOs that make up its communities in the Northern Kentucky their combined business expertise – to governance,” said Bill Butler, chairman of region. focus on a variety of regional initiatives Corporex Companies and board member “OneNKY is special because it is a true that generate tangible results. of the Alliance. Butler has devoted much community of people and businesses that “When we formed in 2017 as Northern of his life to philanthropic efforts in the are on a journey to make this a vibrant Kentucky Regional Alliance, there was a region. “As a group, we are committed to place to live and especially to grow, in keen focus on regionalism and a focus on bold ideas for progress.” all dimensions,” Butler said. “OneNKY improvements in areas of health, education, The organization adopted the name is a supportive culture, a supportive job growth and community vibrancy – OneNKY Alliance to promote unity and community that is now 400,000 strong.” OneNKY refers to so much more than About Northern Kentucky an organization or a name, Finan said. It’s a movement. ORTHERN Kentucky has it all. Quaint downtowns bustling with development. The vision for OneNKY is rooted Prominent universities and a successful community college system. Historic in unity, said David Spaulding, vice neighborhoods and a booming residential real estate market. Global logistics expertise N president and general manager of Turner that is driving growth and bringing more high-paying jobs. Quick access to the best regional airport in North America. Four major league sports teams and successful high school sports Construction in Cincinnati and a member programs that bring the community together. Innovative entrepreneurs and a supportive of OneNKY Alliance’s board of directors. business community. Exciting riverfront development. Multiple arts and culture venues. A NKY’s growth organizations were making cost of living below the national average. significant strides on their own, he said, Comprised of Boone, Campbell and Kenton counties, Northern Kentucky is one of the but they realized they would be stronger largest urban areas in Kentucky, with about 394,000 residents. It is a thriving manufacturing if they worked together. center and a leader in logistics, finance and technology. It has walkability, world-class restaurants, live music and a variety of craft breweries and bourbon distilleries. It also has an “Harnessing our energy and focusing active suburban community with great schools and shopping destinations. And it’s all just our efforts in key/targeted initiatives will across the river from downtown Cincinnati, “America’s Queen City.” help transform the future of Northern Kentucky,” Spaulding said.

12 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com OneNKY headquarters, a planned facility OneNKY Alliance hopes to break ground Why NKY? in Covington. on the headquarters in 2021 and expects “NKY is special because it is The Frankfort house is a strategic construction of the 33,600-s.f. facility to a true community of people advocacy center, a branded location take about 18 months, Finan said. and businesses that are on a where sponsoring organizations and “This facility will be a focal point for businesses can convene, strategize and comprehensive economic development journey to make this a vibrant provide collective impact. The facility is support, which ultimately will help drive place to live and especially to a physical reminder of NKY in the state’s our community forward,” Spaulding said. grow, in all dimensions.” capital, offering a consistent presence and It is more than a physical structure, a unified voice on issues important to Finan said. It represents shared services, —Bill Butler, chairman of Corporex NKY leaders, businesses and residents. aligned strategies, and will be a message Companies and philanthropic leader Because NKY plays a big role in of strength and significance to the greater Kentucky’s economy, Kenton County region. Even without co-location, one of Kay Geiger, regional president of Judge-Executive Kris Knochelmann the Alliance’s strategies – shared services PNC of Greater Cincinnati/Northern said, sometimes the unique needs of the across multiple organizations – is already Kentucky and former chair of the Alliance region are not noticed. NKY has a lot of being explored and utilized, she said. board, said the importance of OneNKY strengths – collaborative governments, Several growth organizations have come as the movement accelerates “holds great good-paying jobs, high quality of life together to share financial and business excitement for the region.” among them – but that does not mean services, for example. “Our community benefits as we there are not challenges that state “We’ve been able to identify further develop shared governance, a legislators could help address, he said. efficiencies so that when we are in that larger voice, a healthy and educated The OneNKY Frankfort facility’s building together, it’s a seamless approach community,” Geiger said. “I am excited proximity to the Capitol is a good to how we conduct business and avoid for the future of NKY and the bold goals reminder of that. And, “it is something duplications,” Finan explained. that will shape our outlook.” to make our legislators proud when they OneNKY Alliance’s other goals are drive up the main street to the Capitol,” centered on education, job growth and Creating results, not programs Colvin said. “They have a little piece of health. It supports programs that work to Garren Colvin, chairman of the OneNKY Northern Kentucky that they’re driving produce a highly skilled workforce and Alliance board of directors, got involved by every day.” grow local talent to meet the job demands in the organization at the ground floor. The future headquarters building in of tomorrow. The Alliance also advocates He had a vested interest, he said: his love Covington will house multiple growth for a healthier NKY. for Northern Kentucky. organizations responsible for future The end goal: A healthy, vibrant “I was born in Northern Kentucky, economic growth, all under one roof. community with a growth-oriented raised in Northern Kentucky, went By sharing resources and costs and regional economy driven by educational to college – undergrad and graduate collaborating on growth initiatives, these excellence, social mobility and a united view school – in Northern Kentucky and I’ve groups will be able to build regional of the future. The Alliance aims to foster worked for the most part in Northern efficiencies and centralized strategies, a community that drives strategic change Kentucky my entire life,” Colvin said. Finan said. OneNKY Alliance is working through action, recognizes the need for “I’m dedicated to this community.” with member company Corporex and the transformation and demands results. Colvin is CEO of St. Elizabeth Catalytic Development Fund to develop Healthcare, the major health care the concept and bring it to fruition. Alliance works to ‘Get a Voice’ provider in NKY and one of the largest The signature OneNKY headquarters The Alliance’s “Get a Voice” project is employers in the three counties. will be located near The Ascent at designed to communicate its message “When you have a group of CEOs Roebling’s Bridge, the iconic blue-and- within the region and at the state level. It coming together that want to make the white riverfront residential building with must elevate the region in the minds of its place you love a better place, it’s hard not a spiral-sloped roof. The headquarters’ partners, its legislators “… and the world to sign up,” he said. design style will complement The Ascent. for that matter,” Butler said. OneNKY Alliance is focused on results, not on creating new programs. The organization is solutions- and results-oriented, Finan said, and the board is playing the long game, not looking for quick fixes. The Alliance has implemented a variety of regional initiatives, including OneNKY Frankfort, a signature facility within walking distance to the Kentucky Capitol, allowing for community voice; and a uUNDER ONE ROOF OneNKY Alliance hopes to break ground this year on the OneNKY headquarters building in Covington, which will house multiple community organizations responsible for future economic growth. lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 13 COVER STORY

tBUSINESS CENTER RiverCenter Towers attracted numerous tenants in 2020, including: insurance and financial services company Protective Life Corp.; technology engineering firm Step CG; and human resources company Gentis Solutions.

Why NKY? “I love our tenacity in NKY. We have the ability to evolve but also hold on to some of the best-loved traits and characteristics. You know change is happening, but we’re building on existing assets. And I think people recognize it’s time to move forward through OneNKY.”

—Karen Finan, president and CEO of OneNKY Alliance

Economic development strong despite pandemic It starts with the NKY community. “We have to get a voice. How do we N 2020, Northern Kentucky communities battled COVID-19 and celebrated some create awareness? How do we elevate the promising economic development achievements. community? How do we move things I In Covington, more than $80 million in private investments and over 1,400 jobs were forward so that if you live in Boone announced, including the headquarters for M&M Service Station Equipment Specialist, Hilltop Basic Resources, Rumpke Waste and Recycling, First Financial Bancorp, Gentis County, for example, you understand the Solutions and STEP CG. importance of Bellevue, Newport and Also underway: a $7 million transformation of a long-vacant shopping center into a Covington?” Finan said. “Having one modern workspace, led by computer firms ReGadget and Blair Technology Group; a $22.5 voice is understanding why, if you live in million plan to turn the former YMCA and Gateway Bookstore buildings into an addition to Covington, that you should care about Hotel Covington, office space and a bourbon experience; and the $4.9 million renovation of Amazon. Generating that type of thought the Republic Bank Building into office space. The city is also working on its plans for the 23-acre downtown site once occupied by the process is something that will drive the IRS. After demolition, the city will restore the street grid, extend utilities to the site, install community forward.” sidewalks, and build fiber and WiFi infrastructure. More can be accomplished with a In Florence, development projects were on par with previous years, according to Mayor shared mission and one voice, Colvin Diane Whalen. said. To make that happen requires “While the hospitality industry has suffered, Florence’s hotels have fared well and are educating the public and elected leaders. averaging 60 to 70% occupancy. More so, we are still seeing interest in the development of new hotels within the city,” she said. “We have some great elected leaders Some future developments include the Drury Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn, a Tesla Super throughout Northern Kentucky and I Charging Station, Farmview Apartments and Arlington Luxury Apartments, located on think they listen to their constituents. So Houston Road next to Turfway Park racetrack, Whalen said. Growth in the job market has if we had enough of a groundswell to tell also led to residential growth, she added. our leaders what we believe in, then they The Ovation project in Newport is an exciting development for Campbell County, said would feel that they have the support Judge-Executive Steven Pendery, as is the NKU Gateway project, a pedestrian-scaled, $100 to make some tougher decisions (on the million mixed-use “town center” style district being developed at the campus gateway. The site is expected to feature new restaurants, retail space, apartments, a hotel, structured region’s behalf),” Colvin said. parking and public gathering spaces. The region’s ability to change and grow Transportation projects in Boone County are opening up more land for development, said is “restricted by our fragmented governing Judge-Executive Gary Moore. A new double-crossover diamond interchange at Graves Road structure, which limits our recognition, and and Interstate 275 opened in late 2020. The project improves mobility and safety in a rapidly political and economic influence relative growing area in northern Boone County. to our big city peer to the north and also The updates will improve congestion related to growth at CVG Airport and nearby associated facilities. within the state of Kentucky,” said David “It will also open up more than 2,000 acres of new land for future growth and Drees, CEO of Drees Homes and a member development,” Moore said. of the Alliance’s board. “The OneNKY Another double-crossover diamond interchange will replace the existing interchange at Alliance was formed with the intent of Richwood Road and I-75/I-71, part of a $60 million project to improve safety and provide better improving our regional brand recognition connections to a growing number of businesses in the area. Completion is expected in 2022. and strengthening our political influence by The Boone County Fiscal Court in December 2020 approved a zoning amendment that speaking as one.” opened up a 274-acre area near CVG to be developed as an industrial park, Moore said. The zone change was requested by Paul Hemmer Companies, which will develop the park. It will OneNKY Alliance promotes the include 3 million s.f. of proposed buildings. importance of unity through quarterly summits, outreach to community

14 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com organizations and educational institutions and works with other groups that seek to capitalize on the region’s strengths in order to continue to get better. One of those allies is Northern Kentucky Tri-County Economic Development (Tri-ED), which markets and promotes NKY on a national and international basis as a desirable location for new or expanding businesses, and helps existing local companies expand operations and grow their customer bases. It blends public and private funds to enhance the business climate and foster regional cooperation among Boone, Campbell and Kenton counties. Since its founding in 1987, Tri-ED has led the successful relocation or expansion efforts for more than 717 business projects, representing more than 69,000 primary industry jobs created with a capital investment of more than $8.7 billion. Photo courtesy of Gravity Diagnostics Economic growth despite COVID-19 NKY started 2020 off strong with several pPANDEMIC PROCESSING When the Though many industry sectors struggled new office headquarters announcements. COVID-19 pandemic struck the U.S. in early 2020, with the challenges presented by the When the pandemic made its way to Gravity Diagnostics began processing coronavirus tests from its CLIA-certified lab in Covington. By global pandemic, NKY Tri-ED nearly Kentucky, Tri-ED partnered with the NKY the end of November, Gravity had processed more met its 2020 recruitment and retention Chamber of Commerce to serve the business than 1.3 million tests. Its staff is shown here when goals. In a year mired with uncertainty community and provide information about the lab reached the 1 million tests mark. and once-inconceivable difficulties, the CARES Act. It also worked with the that’s something that many economic chamber and Horizon Community Funds development companies can’t boast – and through the NKY Restaurant Relief program. – have fared well during the pandemic it’s definitely not something Tri-ED takes In June, Tri-ED launched a series of and are still looking to grow. lightly. CEO roundtable conversations to hear New investments in the region “It was certainly a trying year,” said from the region’s business leaders about continued. Twenty-seven companies from Lee Crume, president and CEO of Tri-ED. opportunities and challenges for the a diverse array of industries created new “We went from trying to understand what region. Crume and Kimberly Rossetti, jobs and invested in the region in 2020, was coming, dealing with the uncertainty vice president of economic development, Tri-ED said. of COVID-19, and then trying to figure spoke with more than 20 NKY business Twelve of the new projects were out what our mission was as we moved leaders from a variety of industry related to advanced manufacturing; nine through it and how we were going to sectors to gain an understanding of how were headquarters and office related; four help companies.” COVID-19 affected their operations, were tech firms; and two were related to Tri-ED had its bruises in 2020, but workforce and projections for 2020 distribution and logistics. Nearly 1,600 it was a surprisingly good year, he said, revenues, growth and recovery. They also jobs were created with an average yearly and that was directly related to the great discussed diversity and inclusion within wage of almost $72,500. business climate and quality of life in their companies and the region. “We believe the future is bright in NKY and Greater Cincinnati. “The conversations revealed that Northern Kentucky and we believe primary industry strongly in the Tri-ED team leading our Why NKY? company leaders economic development efforts,” said Bob “I love Northern Kentucky because it is a region are cautiously Heil, chair of the NKY Tri-ED board of of entrepreneurs and many of its major companies optimistic about directors and CEO of KLH Engineers. recovery, and the Among the developments: started as small businesses. NKY’s river cities, majority of them • Tri-ED worked with IT Supply where the Catalytic Fund does most of its have maintained Solutions, a homegrown Northern work, are diverse and beautiful both in terms full employment Kentucky business, to secure state their physical assets (historic buildings, river and and most are support for its nearly $1.9 million city views, hillsides, walkability) as well as their hiring,” Crume said. expansion. The company serves the welcoming residents. There is a place for everyone Many of NKY’s business and education community by key industries – restoring computers and responsibly here, regardless of income, ethnicity or lifestyle.” food and flavoring, recycling (R2) hardware and equipment. IT, logistics and The expansion will allow the —Jeanne Schroer, president and CEO of the Catalytic Development Fund transportation, and Independence company to add 15 new health innovation employees and continue growing. lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 15 COVER STORY uEXPANDING ITS PRESENCE Bonfiglioli nearly doubled its operations in Boone County, opening a 75,000-s.f. manufacturing expansion at its North American headquarters in March 2020. The $5.2 million investment included an additional 75 jobs.

• Protective Life Corp. in December 2020 announced its plan to relocate its regional office from Cincinnati to Covington, a $17.2 million investment. It will lease and retrofit 67,000 s.f. in Technology Tower I of RiverCenter. The office, expected to open in summer 2021, headquarters in Covington, is managing with the city and the Kentucky Cabinet will be a core site to support Protective more than 20 active COVID-19 trials for for Economic Development to bring the Life’s business nationally. The initial move treatment and prevention, including a $65 million investment and 250 jobs to will bring approximately 100 well-paying Phase III trial for COVID-19 treatment Boone County. jobs to Kentucky. and a Phase III vaccine trial. At the end of 2020, Tri-ED had • Technology engineering firmSTEP • Tri-ED worked with Bonfiglioli surpassed the $200 million capital CG announced its expansion after an North America, a manufacturer of investments goal it set in January by over extensive search for a new headquarters gearmotors and power transmissions, 34%, Crume said. location throughout the Midwest. to support the company’s decision to Moving forward, Tri-ED will focus on STEP CG invested $5.3 million in a nearly double its operations with a $5.2 its strategies for growth while also looking new headquarters in RiverCenter and million investment and add 75 jobs in at ways to balance NKY’s development committed to create 83 new, high-wage unincorporated Boone County. Bonfiglioli activity. The region has an enormous jobs. The company opened its innovation opened its 75,000-s.f. manufacturing amount of logistics and distribution center in summer 2020, despite the space expansion at its North American action, for example, especially around the pandemic. Tri-ED worked with STEP headquarters in March 2020. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Regional CG through its business retention and • Gentis Solutions, a new-to-market Airport (CVG), where the Amazon Air expansion outreach program. provider of human resources solutions Hub is being constructed. • Camco Chemical Co., a supply to high-growth companies, announced “But we also want to make sure that we chain services company providing it would move to Covington in February have space in our community for the next turnkey chemical contract manufacturing, 2020. Tri-ED began working with Gentis round of companies like Mubea, Bosch and warehousing and fulfillment services, early in its decision-making process as CTI … so we’re trying to make sure we have completed an internal it evaluated locations places for all types of companies,” Crume capacity expansion throughout the said. of its facility in Why NKY? Cincinnati region. With NKY’s tremendous assets – its Independence in “We have excellent The company strategic location, talented workforce, February 2020 that values in NKY. We invested $2.7 good infrastructure and a low cost of expanded capacity of are an open, friendly million in its new business – interest in the region will no its liquid blending and community, modest, and headquarters in doubt continue. bottling operation. RiverCenter, opening When you boil it all down, the two Camco also opened values-driven. We are its office in June, and P’s are what attract businesses and a new 100,000-s.f. not afraid to invest, but committed to hiring residents to Northern Kentucky, said warehouse in Florence are focused on return.” 80 new employees. Kenton County Judge-Executive Kris in July, which allowed • A long-term Knochelmann. the company to open —Greg Fischer, Chairman investor in NKY, “Proximity and people. The two P’s,” up more space at its of Fischer Homes Fidelity Investments he said. “We’ve got the proximity to the existing facility to announced it would downtown area, proximity to the airport, install three additional add 550 jobs at its proximity to all the benefits of living in a packaging lines. regional center in Covington in 2020. metropolitan area. And then you’ve also • Gravity Diagnostics in Covington Through Tri-ED’s CEO Roundtable got people with a great work ethic and began preparing for COVID-19 and the outreach, local Fidelity leaders a great knowledge base. Our people are possibility of coronavirus tests from its shared their insights on the impact of smart, they’re trained, they’re educated. CLIA-certified lab in January 2020. The COVID-19 on business and projections Those are all key factors.” lab’s testing method was approved by the for recovery. Fidelity has consistently “The Northern Kentucky region is a FDA on March 16. Its operations grew grown its presence, community great place to live, work and play,” agreed significantly throughout 2020 to over 200 involvement and investment in the Drees, a homebuilder and OneNKY team members and provided more than region since opening the Covington Alliance member. “We enjoy the friendly, 1 million testing results, with turnaround campus in 1992, where it currently convenient, easy lifestyle found in a times of 24 to 48 hours. employs 4,500. small town, along with access to jobs, • CTI (Clinical Trial and Consulting • Dollar General is opening a new, education, entertainment, culture and Services), a full-service contract 630,000-s.f. distribution center in Walton transportation opportunities found in the research organization (CRO) with global to serve 800 of its stores. Tri-ED worked biggest cities.” l

16 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com DEMOGRAPHICS Northern Kentucky by the Numbers

ORTHERN Kentucky – part of the 15-county Greater Cincinnati region – has a growing population A map of the Greater Cincinnati region, which includes Northern Kentucky’s Nand an expanding workforce. The Greater Cincinnati six counties, courtesy REDI Cincinnati region has a labor pool of more than 1.3 million people and a labor force participation rate and size that is significantly higher than the rest of Kentucky and the United States. The Northern Kentucky local workforce area has a civilian labor force of nearly 233,000 people and the average worker earned annual wages of $52,000 as of the first quarter of Median age of residents 37 2020. $68,572 Median household Northern income Kentucky is just a one-day drive (or 90-minute $34,449 Per capita income flight) from 60% of the United States population. 33.4% Residents with a With I-75 and I-71 running through the heart bachelor’s degree of the region, the transportation and logistics industries play a major role in the area’s economy. 70.1% Percentage of Other key industries include financial services, homeowners aviation and aerospace, food and flavor, life sciences, and automotive. $174,033 Median home value Northern Kentucky’s demographics paint a picture of a thriving, growing and

Data as of July 1, 2019. Source: U.S. Census impactful region that is poised to continue to attract attention from business and industry leaders in the coming years.

County Populations Largest Employers

NO. OF 2010 2019 EMPLOYER EMPLOYEES Boone 119,373 133,581 St. Elizabeth Healthcare 10,100 Campbell 90,623 93,584 Fidelity Investments 4,500 Gallatin 8,612 8,869 Citicorp Credit Services 2,485 Grant 24,677 25,069 DHL Express (USA) 2,400 Kenton 159,961 166,998 CVG2 – Amazon.com 2,000 Pendleton 14,915 14,590 Verst Group Logistics 1,900 Totals 418,161 442,691 Robert Bosch Automotive Steering 1,100 Source: Kentucky State Data Center Mubea Inc. HGS 1,017 CVG1 – Amazon.com 1,000 Cengage Distribution Center 800 Schwan’s Global Supply Chain 750 Top Industry Sectors by Employment Tyson – Hillshire Brands 750 FedEx Ground Package System 700 (as of June 2020) Pomeroy 600 INDUSTRY NO. OF WORKERS Mazak Corp. 582 All government 24,481 Club Chef 573 Transportation and warehousing 24,301 Radial Inc. 554 Manufacturing 22,913 Catholic Health Initiatives 500 Health care and social assistance 20,237 Delta Private Jets 500 Retail 18,409 Toyota North American 500 Parts Center Kentucky Source: Kentucky Center for Statistics Levi Strauss & Co. 460 Novolex 459 The United States Playing Card Co. 450 Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems 442

Source: Northern Kentucky Tri-ED

lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 17 RIVERFRONT DEVELOPMENT The front door to NKY Riverfront activity continues to attract businesses, people to the community

BY LORIE HAILEY

HE vibrant Northern Kentucky riverfront offers unique opportunities Tfor economic development and recreational activities, from high-rise condos and mixed-use developments to scenic walking and biking trails and new outdoor music venues. Riverfront developments have helped created dynamic communities, and several new projects are bringing even more excitement to the six NKY cities located along the banks of the Ohio River – Ludlow, Covington, Newport, Bellevue, Dayton and Fort Thomas. “The urban core is the front door to Northern Kentucky. It sets the stage for welcoming new business and talent to the area,” said Karen Finan, president and CEO of OneNKY Alliance. “The stronger our core is, the better the whole. You can feel vibrancies in the “Rather than pausing all efforts with pRIVERFRONT RENAISSANCE Newport on river cities, especially what’s happening the onset of the pandemic, we pivoted to the Levee is undergoing a $100 million renovation now through housing, retail, business focus on delivering Bridgeview Box Park and expansion that is designed to re-energize the entertainment and retail destination. By mid-2021, amenities. And that spreads south, so as a fun and safe place for the community the new Newport on the Levee will feature an new ideas and new business ventures are to come out of isolation and gather active public realm, a refreshed Gallery Building and implemented,” she added. together again, while still having space enhanced connectivity to the waterfront, streets Riverside retail and entertainment to physically distance,” said Tim Perry, and bridges. destination Newport on the Levee is managing partner at NAP. being revitalized by North American Major construction resumed in Newport on the Levee celebrated the Properties (NAP). The multi-level 360,000- September. The 113,000-s.f. Gallery opening of Bridgeview Box Park in June s.f. complex, which attracts more than Building is being renovated to serve as an 2020 in conjunction with the opening 4.5 million visitors each year, connects events venue and gathering space. The of the Riverfront Commons Pedestrian Newport to Cincinnati via the popular westside of the Gallery Building will be Bridge, which connects the Taylor- Purple People Bridge. demolished and replaced with a striking, Southgate Bridge to the Riverwalk level of Initial construction of the $100 all-glass wall to flood natural light into Newport on the Levee. million expansion and renovation project the space. A new entrance will directly Riverfront Commons is a project began in July 2019. While construction connect the east side of the Gallery to connect NKY’s river cities with an plans were slowed by the pandemic, NAP Building with the Purple People Bridge. uninterrupted 11.5-mile walking and created Bridgeview Box Park, a vibrant Construction is set to be completed by bike trail stretching from Fort Thomas container park featuring eight local mid-2021. It is being managed by Turner to Ludlow. It was proposed in 2006 by restaurants and retailers along the river. Construction of Cincinnati. Southbank Partners. Prus Construction photo In addition to economic development, the project helps with ecosystem restoration and riverside stabilization. When completed, Riverfront Commons will seamlessly connect via the Purple People Bridge to trails in Cincinnati, the Licking River Greenway in Northern Kentucky and Devou Park in Covington.

tSCENIC SURROUNDINGS Prus Construction in late 2020 was nearing completion of its work on a 1,350-seat amphitheater on the riverfront in Covington. The scenic amphitheater is part of Covington’s portion of the Riverfront Commons project.

18 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com Portions of the $6.54 million “crown jewel” of Riverfront Commons were nearing completion in late 2020 in Covington. It is a 2.7-mile development next to the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge that includes a 1,350-seat amphitheater, two concrete paths totaling 2,800 feet, a cobblestone pier for paddlers and anglers, upgraded overlooks, and a redesigned cul-de-sac at the foot of Greenup Street. The “stage” area of the amphitheater has a unique backdrop: the Cincinnati skyline.

Behind the seating is the city’s floodwall, Corporex photo beautifully decorated with murals. Another transformative riverfront icon in Covington with its blue and white pMOVING FORWARD Corporex is working on project is taking shape in nearby Newport. windows and sloped, spiral roof. the second phase of its Ovation project, a 125-room SkyPoint Luxury Condos also offer hotel and 100,000-s.f. office building. Construction of Construction began in 2019 – and was the first phase, the $40 million music venue shown nearing completion in late 2020 – of a an unrivaled view of the Ohio River. The here that is expected to draw more than 180 events $40 million music venue that is expected former convalescent home, located on a and up to 400,000 guests each year, was completed to draw more than 180 events and up Newport hilltop, was renovated into 45 near the end of 2020. Corporex expects concerts to to 400,000 guests each year. It is part of residences by developers 120 Main St. begin in late spring 2021. Corporex’s $1 billion Ovation project, LLC. Most of the first-phase units have a mixed-use development that will be floor-to-ceiling windows with one-of-a- comprised of 900 residential units, kind views of the Cincinnati skyline. development by restoring the street grid, restaurants, retail, a hotel and offices. Hillside development Veranda on the extending utilities and building fiber and The concert venue will be linked to Views in Covington has 18 high-end, three- Wi-Fi infrastructure. future phases of the Ovation development story townhomes with unobstructed skyline “Once the infrastructure gets via a pedestrian walkway over the Route views. The condos, developed by Joshua developed, we’ll be able to start selling 9 extension. The pedestrian bridge will be One, are an average of 2,500 s.f. off parcels and having smaller, more linked to the restaurants and entertainment Job growth and economic incremental types of development rather spots that will make up the main pedestrian development in NKY has increased than a 30-story office tower that takes up streets within the development. demand for residential real estate of all an entire block,” said Tom West, the city’s Corporex is moving forward with the types, even during the global pandemic. economic development director. next phases of development – a hotel and “The [housing] demand is there The site’s master plan includes several 100,000-s.f. office building west of the from all of these new jobs and from the goals, including: creating jobs and tax music venue. The hotel and the office great jobs that were already available in revenue from a variety of workplace building will be built above a 550-car Northern Kentucky,” said Lee Crume, environments; including a mixture parking garage that is under construction. president and CEO of Northern of uses and outdoor spaces; making In 2020, Corporex completed its Kentucky Tri-ED, the region’s economic a walkable and drivable street grid; renovation of a high-rise office building development company. “Who would enhancing the area’s connection to the into a boutique apartment community have guessed that [increased home sales] Ohio River; and integrating the area with on the riverfront in Covington. Madison would have been one of the outcomes neighborhoods and business centers. Place has 187 studio, one-bedroom and of coronavirus? A market that was “We’ve made a conscientious decision two-bedroom apartments with views doing pretty well already has just gone about this site that we are not going of downtown Cincinnati and the Ohio gangbusters this year.” to wall off the river or the view of River. It complements one of Corporex’s downtown Cincinnati,” West said. “Our other residential developments near the A once-in-a-lifetime chance mayor is famous for saying, ‘When you river, The Ascent at Roebling’s Bridge, an at riverfront development buy Covington, you get Cincinnati for Covington officials are excited about the free.’ We do have the best view and we chance to restore the street grid, now don’t want to just completely create a wall CITY OF COVINGTON 20 W. Pike St. that the city has purchased the 23-acre there that blocks people from that view.” Covington, KY 41011 downtown site once occupied by the IRS, That view attracts visitors and covingtonky.gov where federal tax returns were processed residents alike, Finan said. The riverside for more than 52 years. communities are alive with vibrancy and Covington offers small- The bulk of the property sits just innovation, a perfect place to run a family city charm and big-city north of Fourth Street between Madison business or a Fortune 500 company. benefits. A diverse and Joseph Meyer, inclusive community, The Mayor Avenue to the east and Johnson Street “Northern Kentucky is an attractive place Cov radiates a cool urban to the west, with an adjacent six-acre to live for so many reasons. There has been vibe inspired by historic buildings and parking lot west of Johnson reaching the a significant increase in development along authentic dining and drinking attractions. approach to the Clay Wade Bailey Bridge. the riverfront, which has brought to life a Why are our finance/insurance, bio-/life As of December, the city was accepting flourish of entertainment and community- sciences and design/branding/marketing proposals from firms to demolish and engaging opportunities,” agreed David sectors growing? Because executives say their employees want to live and work here. salvage the existing buildings. Then Spaulding, vice president and general the sprawling site will be prepped for manager of Turner Construction. l lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 19 REAL ESTATE Sponsored by A strong and vibrant urban core Transformative real estate projects attract companies, fuel residential growth

BY LORIE HAILEY

CROSS Kentucky, one of the bright spots in 2020’s economy was the Areal estate market, a fact that many found surprising during a global pandemic – a time of social distancing and hunkering down to stay “healthy at home.” The Northern Kentucky residential real estate market was no exception. Photo courtesy of Drees Homes There was a slowdown at the beginning of the pandemic, but year-to-date numbers show a robust market where homes sold quickly and at higher prices than the previous year. In the first 11 months of 2020, the number of homes sold in the 12 counties served by the Northern Kentucky Association of Realtors (NKAR) was up Residential building permits were up pBRIGHT SPOT Residential real estate sales 5.26%, and the average price of homes 20% over 2019 for the first three quarters were up in the first 11 months of 2020, and the number of days on the market dropped sold was up 10.39%, according to NKAR of 2020 in Boone, Kenton and Campbell significantly. Residential permits were up 20% over statistics. (At the time of this publication, counties, according to the Building Industry 2019 for the first three quarters of 2020 in Boone, statistics for December 2020 were not yet Association of Northern Kentucky. Much Kenton and Campbell counties. available.) of this activity can be attributed to steady The number of days homes were economic development in the region. on the market dropped significantly. In “The Greater Cincinnati housing market hotel. The hotel will have two bars and 2020, the average was 28 days, down is a great housing value as compared to suites with skyline views. from 36 in 2019. nationally, and Northern Kentucky is even As of late 2020, Corporex officials Northern Kentucky has had a healthy better,” said Greg Fischer, chairman of said the company is in the process of supply of new real estate developments Fischer Homes, a homebuilder based in constructing a levee retaining wall, which in recent years, from high-dollar luxury Erlanger. “We offer great family and career will allow for the construction of a 2,500 condominiums with phenomenal views opportunities. The resale market is the space parking structure that will serve as of the Ohio River skyline to family tightest that I have ever seen. Resale homes a platform for future development. The subdivisions, and developers have been are selling more homes per month than are construction of the garage and riverfront busy supplying new homes, renovating even listed. For Fischer Homes, Northern residential units (Ovation Flatts) is existing buildings and creating mixed-use Kentucky year-to-date sales are up 36%.” planned to commence in 2021. developments. Commercial real estate CORPOREX FAMILY growth continues COMPANIES Despite the pandemic, real estate 100 E. RiverCenter Boulevard developer Corporex is moving forward Suite 1100 Covington, KY 41011 with the second phase of its flagship (859) 292-5500 Ovation project, a $1 billion mixed- corporex.com use development located at the at the Bill Butler, intersection of the Ohio and Licking Corporex is a real estate- Chairman rivers in Newport. When completed, focused investment and Founder, company. Its core mission Corporex Ovation will have a concert venue, is to create value through Companies parking garage, 900 residential units, its real estate investments. restaurants, retail establishments, a hotel Corporex has a 55- and office space. year legacy of designing, developing, Construction of the first phase was constructing and managing real estate nearing completion in late 2020, a $40 assets of the highest quality. Its track record demonstrates a diverse mix of million, 38,000-s.f. concert venue that is investment in and development of over expected to draw more than 180 events 100 build-to-suit office and industrial Photo courtesy of the Catalytic Fund and up to 400,000 guests each year. projects, over 41 full service and select pWAREHOUSE TRANSFORMATION The Phase II of the project is a 100,000-s.f. service hotels, business parks, luxury historic Kent Building in Bellevue was redeveloped residential and family sports clubs. into Kent Lofts, upscale loft apartments that building with Class A office space and a welcomed residents in early 2020. 125-room Homewood Suites, a Hilton

20 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com Corporex CEO Dan Sink said Ovation, residential and commercial real estate and similar projects, are what the region projects throughout Northern Kentucky’s Corporex: needs to boost the stature of Northern urban cities. Catalytic’s community Kentucky against the name recognition of revitalization projects have fueled economic Building community cities like Louisville and Lexington. development and job creation while creating “We’re kind of a hidden gem,” Sink said. signature projects such as Hotel Covington, OVINGTON-based Corporex “[We have an] attractive cost of living, a Boone Block Lofts, The Life Learning Companies LLC controls over $1 great education system and workforce … .” Center and the Kentucky Career Center, Cbillion of real estate investments in Tom Banta, Corporex managing The Monarch Building and the Bradford 20 major U.S. markets. It has a reputation as one of the nation’s leading privately director, said Corporex has “historically Building in Covington; the Kent Lofts held owner/operators of commercial real done very well commencing work on project in Bellevue; and Skypoint Luxury estate. And while CEO Dan Sink grows the major projects during a recession.” Condos in Newport. company’s leadership team and its business, “We expect the economy to be back Since 2013, the Catalytic Fund has Corporex founder and Chairman William to full strength when these projects come supported over 50 carefully selected real “Bill” Butler is expanding his focus to an even online, and there are certain economic estate developments, said Jeanne Schroer, bigger picture: building community. advantages to building when others are the organization’s president and CEO. The Corporex team has long held that not,” Banta said in June when Corporex “Our projects are diverse in terms of investing in charitable and civic initiatives is made its announcement. size, property type, and end users – what incumbent for business. A true entrepreneur, Corporex also recently finished they have in common is that they are high- Butler encourages a multi-faceted approach to philanthropy. While the company readily redeveloping Madison Place, an office quality projects that noticeably impact invests time and money in nonprofits with a building on the riverfront in Covington that their local neighborhoods,” she said. proven track record, its chairman is known sat mostly vacant for many years. Now a Catalytic is currently working on a to initiate new ventures when community fully residential luxury apartment building, new, urban infill housing development in needs are unmet. the city’s first high-rise rental community, Newport, Schroer said. It is also involved The Butler Foundation’s mission is to welcomed its first residents in April 2020. in the initiative to build OneNKY help Northern Kentuckians in need, as The 14-story building has 187 units that Alliance’s headquarters in Covington. directly as possible. Established with Bill’s offer residents panoramic riverfront views, Quality real estate developments wife, Sue, and chaired by his brother Martin ample parking, a large recreation center, and in Northern Kentucky’s urban core – Butler, it is a private foundation that funds oversized units and balconies. both with and without Catalytic Fund long-term solutions to poverty by supporting students of need with scholarships, Helping Staying on top of both residential and investments – have attracted “some very Hand grants, and direct service charities in commercial projects requires access to exciting companies to NKY, such as CTI Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati. a skilled workforce in the construction and Protective Life Corp.,” Schroer said. The Corporex corporate giving program sector. Sink said the issue remains a “A strong and vibrant urban core is broader in mission and geographic scope. challenge, but astute planning is one way is extremely important to the region’s It strategically supports nonprofit fundraisers, to align demand with worker supply. economic competitiveness because cause-related marketing, and an annual “I think the best thing we’ve been able today’s growth companies are interested employee workplace campaign for the to do is mitigate worker shortage through in providing more to their employees United Way of Greater Cincinnati. scheduling and planning with flexibility,” than just a job and a cubicle,” she said. In recent years, Butler and other local he said. “Just recognizing there is a “They are more conscious about culture, business leaders have been a driving force in encouraging collaboration among people shortage and making sure we properly amenities, community and the types of and constituent groups. One example is the schedule jobs and align with our budget assets our urban cities have the potential Horizon Community Funds of Northern and timeline helps maximize the time we to provide. … We now have a full range Kentucky. Led by a group of successful have to complete our projects.” of living and working options ranging business executives, this community from semi-rural to suburban to urban foundation attracted a charitable asset base Catalytic Fund’s and I think companies want to move and of over $20 million in its first 18 months of urban renaissance grow in regions offering these choices.” l operations. In response to the pandemic The Greater Cincinnati Foundation (GCF) this year, Horizon raised over $2.2 million in August 2020 announced a new $500,000 for a NKY Coronavirus Relief Fund and investment in the Catalytic Development qMAKING PROGRESS The second phase of brought together local funders and nonprofits to distribute resources more efficiently Funding Corp., a not-for-profit company Corporex’s Ovation project is moving forward. It includes a 100,000-s.f. building with Class A office throughout the community. that provides financing assistance and space and a 125-room Homewood Suites, a Another major outcome is the Life technical expertise for high-impact Hilton hotel. Learning Center, for “at risk” individuals and ex-offenders trying to succeed and re- enter society. They participate in a 12-week curriculum and care continuum leading to a certificate of achievement recognized by employers as a key qualification when hiring. This program is the only one of its kind in the nation. Butler is an active participant in OneNKY Alliance. The organization is comprised of CEOs of Northern Kentucky businesses and is founded on the commitment to bold ideas and bold change for the community at large. lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 21 CONSTRUCTION Sponsored by Flurry of activity Amazon Air Hub, other projects fueling growth in commercial and residential construction

BY JEFF MCDANALD

ESPITE a period of uncertainty and brief slowdown at the outset Dof the pandemic, most Northern Kentucky commercial and residential builders quickly rebounded and are reporting a profitable or, in some cases, record-breaking 2020. Commercial projects are largely clustered in two areas – redevelopment projects in the urban core, and distribution centers in the suburban areas with good interstate access. These have primarily been located near the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), but as land near the airport develops, new logistics centers are beginning to migrate to the south along Interstate 75. Progress continues on the Riverfront Amazon photo Commons trail and the Newport on the Levee makeover, and final touches are UTZ Industrial ($24 million), Runway p3 MILLION S.F. The $1.5 billion Amazon being completed at the St. Elizabeth Logistics Center 1 ($26 million), and Air Hub at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport is expected to open this year. Healthcare Cancer Center in Edgewood. Runway Logistics Center 2 ($24 million), The package center will take up 970 acres at CVG Unquestionably, the rising tide lifting all three by design/build firm Al. Neyer. – that’s equivalent to 31 Great American Ballparks. all boats is the Amazon Air Hub in Boone Brian Miller, executive vice president County. The behemoth will cover 970 of the Building Industry Association acres at CVG, acreage equivalent to 31 of Northern Kentucky, adds historical Cincinnati Reds ballparks. The hub perspective to the Amazon Air Hub’s new commercial/industrial capital includes a 3-million-s.f. package center impact. development jumped to $532 million, that will service 200 to 300 trucks at any “Our new commercial/industrial largely because of the Amazon Air Hub given time, plus a parking area for about capital investment number for the first and associated projects.” 100 cargo airplanes. Amazon expects to three quarters back in 2018 was around Capital reinvestment projects marked open the $1.49 billion hub in 2021. $184 million,” he said. “In 2019, the a similar trend: $162 million in the first A sample of the kind of construction same kind of greenfield development three quarters of 2018, $190 million in projects following in the wake of the for the first three quarters climbed 2019, and $287 million in 2020. Amazon Air Hub in 2020 includes up to $313 million. This year (2020), “It’s an improvement of about $320 million overall for new and reinvestment commercial/industrial construction projects,” Miller said. “A pretty massive number like we’ve almost never seen here.” Driving home the magnitude of the Amazon Air Hub project, Miller noted that the HVAC construction permits alone were valued at $30 million and the wetland disturbance permits were over $50 million. “If I look at all the projects in the Northern Kentucky area of Boone,

tSPEC BUILDING The Paul Hemmer Co. constructed 64,000 s.f. of Class A warehouse/ industrial space in Hebron for real estate development firm Hardy World. It is located minutes from the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.

22 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com Kenton and Campbell counties,” and some commercial office space and Miller said, “it’s really about 68% of all generally fixing up what was there.” commercial/industrial projects tied back Next to Newport on the Levee at the to the Amazon Air Hub.” confluence of the Licking and Ohio rivers is another Turner Construction project Rare riverfront opportunities known as Ovation. The 25-acre mixed- One might speculate that without the use development will have more than 900 Amazon Air Hub, the flurry of construction residential units in addition to restaurants, activity in Northern Kentucky would be on retail, hotels, offices and a music venue. par with the rest of the United States. But The local site owner, Corporex, has that’s not taking into account the singularity teamed with premiere concert promoters of the region, according to Dave Spaulding, Promo West and AEG on the music general manager of Turner Construction’s venue, the first phase of the development. Cincinnati office. “It will overlook the Cincinnati skyline Paul Hemmer Co. is building a 9,400-s.f. “Most areas along the riverfront and the river in a more intimate setting outpatient medical center in Dry Ridge at major city skylines are developed than Riverbend (which has a 20,000 for St. Elizabeth Physicians. already,” Spaulding said. “When you look capacity),” Spaulding said. across the country, it’s pretty rare to find The curvilinear-roofed concert venue Nearly a century great development opportunities like we will sit atop a 550-car parking structure have in Covington and Newport on the and is expected to attract up to 400,000 of building in NKY riverfront right across from Cincinnati.” fans annually to over 180 events per year. Turner Construction has begun the Although the $140 million AUL Hemmer Co. is a construction, process of re-imagining Newport on the St. Elizabeth Healthcare Cancer Center in building and real estate services firm Levee, a multi-level retail entertainment Edgewood opened to patients in October, Pwith a history in Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati dating to 1921. A century destination with easy access to downtown Turner’s work continues. later, Hemmer is recognized as one of the Cincinnati via the Purple People Bridge. “They still have a lot of ‘fit out’ region’s premier providers of construction “Newport on the Levee is a great and white space where they are still services. re-use of an old development that programming the space,” Spaulding said. For more than 50 years, Hemmer has originally opened in 2001 and was “We’ll probably be there another eight specialized in design-build construction. underperforming,” Spaulding said. “The months. For a facility that large (250,000 Hemmer’s unique knowledge and re-imagining includes outdoor dining, s.f.), you are planning it three years out, experience enables it to provide the earliest walk-up eating options and an artisan anticipating how health care will evolve.” commitment of guaranteed cost and delivery market. There are plans for a hotel “This [2020] was one of the best years for its industrial and commercial customers. we’ve ever had,” said Spaulding. “My All construction projects come with inherent risks, so nothing takes the place of concern is there aren’t many architects experience, said Paul Hemmer Jr., president putting pen to paper for future projects. of Paul Hemmer Co. qREVITALIZING THE RIVERFRONT Newport Government shutdowns have meant new on the Levee in June 2020 opened Bridgeview Box In its design/build program, Hemmer Park, a container park featuring eight local restaurants projects aren’t getting started or funded and focuses its efforts on building value by design. and retailers along the river. The park is part of a plan we could be a little bit slower in 2021.” Every project is viewed as more than just a by owner North American Properties to redevelop one-time endeavor, the company president the entertainment destination, a $100 million project Building a destination landmark said. Hemmer knows that each project that will transform it into a vibrant gathering place for Southbank Partners saw progress in represents both a substantial and long-term the community. Major construction of the expansion investment for its customers. and renovation project resumed in September. 2020 on its signature project, Riverfront “Hemmer understands that decisions made early in the process will have the greatest impact on value for the life of the building,” Paul Hemmer said. “In addition, we know that our success is tied to an ability to lead a team of professionals that includes architects and engineers, as well as subcontractors and suppliers.” Hemmer has an excellent reputation in the subcontractor community and has established strong relationships with the best subcontractors in the region. Finally, Hemmer credits its success to a professional staff with an established culture of teamwork and service, where an emphasis is placed on good communication, as well as a commitment to quality and competitive pricing, Paul Hemmer said. “Nearly 100 years after its founding, Hemmer enjoys an excellent reputation and track record for success,” he said. “Our goal is to become your building partner.” Photo courtesy of Newport on the Levee

lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 23 CONSTRUCTION uA CENTURY OF CONSTRUCTION The Paul Hemmer Co. in 2020 completed a 25,000- s.f. transportation facility in Hebron for trucking company TGT Transport. For more than 50 years, Hemmer has specialized in design-build construction in the region.

Commons, a 11.5-mile walking/biking path that runs along the Ohio River from the city of Ludlow on the west to Fort Thomas on the east. The path features open park space at strategic points along the river and provides linkage to neighborhood, residential, business, entertainment and historic districts. The project is part of a comprehensive redevelopment plan for the whole riverfront with commitment from seven cities: Ludlow, Covington, Newport, but decisions were delayed. Revenues will PAUL HEMMER COMPANY Bellevue, Silver Grove, Dayton and Fort be off 40% versus our projections but … 226 Grandview Dr. Thomas. Jack Moreland, president of we’ll be operating profitably.” Fort Mitchell, KY 41017 (859) 341-8300 Southbank Properties, said the plan is to Looking to 2021, Hemmer has plans paulhemmer.com make Northern Kentucky a destination for continued work around CVG, with a landmark. He estimates that 75% of the 63,000-s.f. speculative office/warehouse Paul Hemmer Company trail will be in place within a year. development for Hardy World in Hebron is a construction management, building and a 166,400-s.f. speculative office/ Paul W. Industrial and logistics facilities warehouse for Molto in Hebron. services and real estate development firm that Hemmer, Jr., The Paul Hemmer Co. has been focused builds Value by Design. President, Paul Hemmer on new industrial and logistics facilities Residential construction frenzy With a history in Greater Company throughout NKY. Some of the commercial After a pandemic-driven freeze in the Cincinnati dating to projects Hemmer completed in 2020 late spring of 2020, the housing market 1921, Hemmer specializes in design/ include a 26,000-s.f. manufacturing quickly recovered with a frenzy of home build construction, which enables it to facility in Independence for the Mazak buying. From a volume standpoint, provide the earliest commitment of cost and delivery for its industrial, medical, Corp. and GE’s 68,000-s.f. On Wing residential permits were up 20% over commercial and retail clients. Support Center in Florence. 2019 for the first three quarters of 2020 Hemmer’s Amazon-related projects in Boone, Kenton and Campbell counties, include a 25,000-s.f. transportation according to the Building Industry projects in the works for 2021 in Villa facility in Hebron for TGT Transport; Association of Northern Kentucky. Hills, Fort Wright, Crescent Springs, a 139,000-s.f. speculative building in (Data for the fourth quarter was not Independence and Erlanger. Hebron for CA Industrial; and an 8,300- yet available when this publication “In terms of the impact of COVID-19, s.f. food-grade facility in Erlanger for was printed.) we see buyers want a ‘fresh space,’” Fischer candy maker Perfetti Van Melle. Part of the housing demand is the said. “A new home will have the spaces they “In February and March our result of job creation accompanying the are looking for, whether it be for remote customers became a little skittish,” said area’s economic development boom, but work or learning, a home gym or a gourmet Paul Hemmer, CEO of the Fort Mitchell- it’s largely following a scenario being kitchen – things that have become more based builder. “No projects were canceled played out across the nation. important in the pandemic.” A number of factors are at work, said Drees Homes, which has been Greg Fischer, chairman of Fischer Homes, operating in the area for over 90 years, is which experienced a record-breaking also reporting 2020 as a record-breaking 2020, with sales up 36% over 2019. sales year. Drees offers new homes in 23 “First, the pandemic has increased the communities across Boone, Kenton and demand for homes as people look for more Campbell counties. space to work, learn and exercise at home,” “The pandemic accelerated changes he said. “Second, the supply of homes listed to our sales channels,” said David Drees, for sale is at an all-time low. Third, mortgage president of Drees Homes. “We quickly rates are also at record lows. Fourth, we see turned our attention to expanding a preference for new versus used homes our digital library of resources that because customers in this environment could assist prospective buyers online. prefer everything new, and the design With enhanced video home tours, the pHIGH DEMAND Northern Kentucky-based elements built into newer homes.” introduction of virtual appointments and Fischer Homes had a record-breaking 2020, with Fischer completed home projects in an array of meeting options, we were sales up 36% over 2019, according to Greg Fischer, Union, Hebron, Alexandria, Covington able to continue capturing the attention chairman of the company. and Walton in 2020. The company has of buyers.” l

24 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT Strengthening the talent pipeline Programs aim to increase pool of skilled workers to meet current, future demand

tUNIFIED EFFORTS GROW NKY partners discussed progress that has been made in the initiative’s five focus areas and considered future workforce development strategies during a February 2020 partner update meeting at Gateway Community and Technical College. GROW NKY, an acronym for Growing Regional Outcomes through Workforce for Northern Kentucky, is a workforce development/talent attraction initiative that aims to increase the pipeline of available workers and unify workforce development efforts. A virtual partner update meeting was held in December 2020 to discuss the power of collective impact workforce strategies.

of talent strategies. That goal led to the development of MyCareerE3, a work- based online learning platform to connect NKY Chamber photo students to opportunities in high- demand sectors. MyCareerE3 also serves as a central database for businesses, Northern Kentucky school districts and collaborative partners to capture and report activity across the region, she said. BY LORIE HAILEY The initiative, launched in August The Northern Kentucky Education 2018, is led by the Northern Kentucky Council is working with GROW ANY large employers in the region Chamber of Commerce with key NKY to build business and education say one of their biggest challenges workforce partners. partnerships that support internships, Mis keeping up with workforce “The purpose of GROW NKY is externships, co-ops, apprenticeships and needs – from entry level to management to increase the pipeline of available career-based learning opportunities. positions in manufacturing and logistics workers and to offer a broad spectrum of Another outcome of GROW NKY has across a range of industries. opportunities in Northern Kentucky by been the creation of the Strategic Workforce “We have become the mega logistics/ working together and unifying workforce Action Team (SWAT), Mulcahy said. fulfillment and supply chain epicenter,” development efforts,” said Leisa Mulcahy, “Northern Kentucky is rich with said Paul Verst, chairman and CEO of vice president of workforce for the Northern resources to help employers tackle people Verst Logistics in Walton, Ky. “With Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. She leads challenges. With such an expansive companies flocking to invest in our the GROW NKY initiative. network of resources available, navigating community, and with the impact of Grow NKY focuses on five key areas COVID-19 on our workforce, it is of workforce development, which it calls becoming increasingly challenging for “pillars of work” – improved kindergarten KENTUCKY CABINET FOR ECONOMIC companies to attract and retain quality readiness; college and career readiness; DEVELOPMENT talent. We have substantially increased adult career readiness and lifelong Old Capitol Annex our wage rates and still find it challenging learning; talent retention and attraction; 300 West Broadway to find people who want to work.” Frankfort, Kentucky 40601 and employer policies and practices. (502) 564-7670 To help solve this challenge, local Work in each pillar is geared toward (800) 626-2930 Jeff Taylor, leaders are working alongside companies high-demand sectors in NKY: advanced CED.ky.gov Commissioner to help grow and strengthen Northern manufacturing, information technology of Business Kentucky’s talent pipeline to meet current (IT), advanced logistics, health sciences, From single-employee Development and future workforce needs. financial services and construction. startups to century-old brands, Team Kentucky helps businesses In true NKY fashion, this is a The initiative has set short-term and of all sizes grow and succeed in Kentucky. collaborative effort. long-term objectives in each area of focus Offering low business costs, strong quality One of the biggest collaborations is with a mission to drive population level of life and expertise across a range of key Growing Regional Outcomes through outcomes in each area, Mulcahy said. industries, the commonwealth is prepared to Workforce for Northern Kentucky (GROW More than 70 organizations are involved support any company’s needs. NKY), a strategic collective of more than 70 as partners. With experts in Europe, Asia and throughout the Bluegrass, Team Kentucky leaders across key industries, educational Increasing work-based learning responds quickly, builds long-term institutions and community organizations connections was identified as a top relationships, assists with workforce working to leverage the region’s assets priority by GROW NKY partners training and assures companies get the to grow, attract and retain a globally and OneNKY Alliance, said Amanda resources they need for success. competitive workforce. Johannemann, NKY Chamber’s director

26 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com the landscape of workforce development NKU is making sure its curriculum and students working toward the completion can be difficult and overwhelming for degree pathways are aligned with national of an associate degree with future plans to employers,” she said. best practices and regional workforce needs. transfer to NKU. GROW NKY partners have worked The university is also focusing on creating Gateway’s primary goals are to enhance to align resources across the workforce a culture that encourages entrepreneurship education and training access, create ecosystem to create a more effective and and innovation. engaging and relevant curriculum, and efficient way for employers to access A couple of examples: NKU’s work with remove barriers to higher education, said and utilize the resources they need. By Rockwell Automation and CBT Co. led Gateway President Fernando Figueroa. scheduling a “SWAT meeting,” employers the university to build a lab that teaches The college offers innovative programs can meet with representatives from hands-on automation and robotics support with community partners such as LIFT more than a dozen partner organizations through a mechatronics degree program, the Tri-State, a free, 10-week job-training to share their current situation and Besl said. In partnership with the Tri-State program in logistics, inventory management, future challenges with the group, which Logistics Council, the university also facilities management, and transportation then aligns resources to best serve the launched a supply chain and logistics hub that allows participants to obtain certificates company’s workforce needs. to address workforce needs in the region. in seven different fields; and the Enhanced As of December 2020, 19 SWAT It links supply chain management students Operator Program, a collaboration meetings had been conducted. When with internships, job opportunities and with the Life Learning Center and local surveyed, the companies involved professional connections. manufacturers to create a competency- rated the meetings as helpful and said In September, NKU and the City of based, industry-aligned curriculum that they were likely to utilize the resources Covington unveiled the Collaborative meets the needs of employers and their provided, Mulcahy said. for Economic Engagement, a one-stop workforce, Figueroa said. innovation hub for businesses and Gateway also offers classes, programs Educators focusing entrepreneurs to accelerate economic and certificates in fields where jobs are on region’s needs growth in the area. It is located in readily available, such as jobs requiring Several top-notch universities and Covington’s Innovation Alley space at 112 commercial drivers’ licenses or in the colleges are located in the Northern West Pike St. areas of computerized manufacturing and Kentucky/Greater Cincinnati region, The Collaborative for Economic machining, HVAC and utility linework. including Northern Kentucky University, Engagement leverages regional agencies Northern Kentucky Federation for Thomas More University, Gateway and programs as well as NKU’s expertise Advanced Manufacturing Education Community and Technical College, in data analytics, health, logistics and (NKY FAME) also is helping to create University of Cincinnati and Xavier entrepreneurial innovation to provide a pipeline of highly skilled workers. University. Many of these schools partner the tools that entrepreneurs need to NKY FAME is a partnership with with the community in various ways to thrive. Given the financial impacts Gateway whose purpose is to implement help retain and attract businesses. of the pandemic, the Collaborative career pathway, apprenticeship-style Northern Kentucky University has for Economic Engagement will play educational programs that work to close continued its legacy of building partnerships an essential role in helping the local the skills gap. and enhancing the learning experience economy move from recovery into Students in Gateway’s two-year for students, said Cheryl Besl, director of growth, NKU said. advanced manufacturing technician marketing at Northern Kentucky Tri-County “NKU is an economic driver and program (AMT) get the benefit of Economic Development (Tri-ED). These plays a critical role with innovation, cutting-edge curriculum and paid partnerships benefit the private sector while the workforce and growth strategies,” working experience while learning highly providing work experience for students, she said Karen Finan, president and CEO sought-after business principles and best said. of OneNKY Alliance. practices of world-class manufacturers. Under the leadership of President NKU and Gateway Community and They attend class two days a week and Ashish Vaidya, NKU has sought ways to Technical College have a partnership that work at a sponsoring manufacturer three prepare its students for productive careers in provides transfer assistance to Gateway days per week. l Northern Kentucky, Besl said. One example is the university’s Success by Design (SbD) program, a three-year strategic framework that advances student success in alignment NKU photo with regional needs. Among other initiatives,

uCOLLABORATING IN COVINGTON Northern Kentucky University and the City of Covington in September unveiled the Collaborative for Economic Engagement, a one-stop innovation hub for businesses and entrepreneurs to accelerate economic growth in the area. NKU and city leaders celebrated the new space – in Covington’s Innovation Alley on Pike Street – with an official ribbon cutting. Shown here, from left, are NKU board of regents member Lee Scheben, CIE Director David Schneider, NKU President Ashish Vaidya, Matt Hollenkamp with St. Elizabeth Healthcare, and Covington Mayor Joe Meyer. lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 27 EDUCATION Training tomorrow’s leaders Region’s schools strengthen commitment to preparing students for careers in NKY

BY ABBY LAUB

F it “takes a village” to care for children, then Northern Kentucky’s village is Imore like a booming metropolis – full of industry, educators and innovators alike who have worked tirelessly during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure that students of all ages and stages had the tools they needed to be successful in a learning environment that practically changed overnight. Educators were some of the quickest to pivot to fully online platforms at the start of the pandemic, and Northern Kentucky officials will learn from that shift as they contemplate the future of the region’s education and workforce initiatives. Photo courtesy of NKU Northern Kentucky University’s President Ashish Vaidya said the pandemic “The post-COVID world is going to be pEDUCATING ENTREPRENEURS Northern helped the school pinpoint what its students even more VUCA,” Vaidya said. “Volatile, Kentucky University’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) has been named one of actually need like never before. Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous. the world’s best in creating, advancing and enabling “NKU has been very nimble and Organizations need to convert negative entrepreneurship educational opportunities. The agile,” he said. “We are way faster than VUCA to positive VUCA and say, ‘What’s CIE allows students to take ownership of their most institutions in many ways. I think our Vision, what’s our Understanding, future through innovation and entrepreneurial our ability to be nimble and agile will what’s our Clarity and what’s our Agility?’ activities both inside and outside the classroom. hold us in good form. We’re going to use We have a vision of becoming a more this time to really understand and learn… student-ready, regionally engaged ‘What do students really need and want university, in fact even more so in a post- Equity Initiative for Students” program and how do we deliver?’ Ultimately it’s COVID world. We understand the needs focuses on increasing digital equity about value.” of our students, and the community and through programs in Cincinnati and He used the Army term “VUCA” to we are responding appropriately.” Northern Kentucky that are tailored to explain what he hopes to see come out Being the region’s flagship university, meet the needs of local school districts. of the pandemic situation for NKU and NKU paints a clear picture of what all of the Erlanger-based candy maker Perfetti Van other learning institutions. region’s schools are trying to accomplish: Melle also teamed up with United Way of Educating its population well, attracting Greater Cincinnati and Cincinnati Bell for its NORTHERN new talent, preparing them for jobs that are annual Community Day in September and KENTUCKY actually available in the region, and syncing helped deliver internet access to students UNIVERSITY Nunn Drive up with key partners. throughout the region. The company Highland Heights, KY 41099 Vaidya said 45% of NKU students are celebrated the support at an employee drive- (859) 572-5100 the first in their families to go to college, and through parade in its parking lot. nku.edu he is proud that the university is literally “It’s a privilege to help make life Dr. Ashish Founded in 1968, NKU transforming families through education. sweeter in our community through Vaidya, But COVID-19 proved more than supporting this digital equity initiative,” is a growing metropolitan President university of more than ever that even the most adept institutions said Sylvia Buxton, president and CEO 15,000 students served by more than always need their communities to support of Perfetti Van Melle North America. 2,000 faculty and staff on a thriving them. And Northern Kentucky’s leadership “Giving back where our Perfetti Van Melle suburban campus near Cincinnati. Located stepped up to the plate. Take the example employees live and work is a big part of in the quiet suburb of Highland Heights, Ky. – just seven miles southeast of of addressing digital inequality as students our identity and values.” Cincinnati – NKU has become a leader flocked en masse to at-home learning. The region’s major school districts – in Greater Cincinnati and Kentucky by Over the summer, more than 1,000 Boone County Schools, Kenton County providing a private school education Northern Kentucky families received Schools and Campbell County Schools for a fraction of the cost. While NKU is access to low-cost internet service in – also worked nimbly through the one of the fastest growing universities in time for the 2020-21 school year under pandemic process from the beginning, Kentucky, its professors still know our an initiative launched by United Way of utilizing virtual and synchronous learning students’ names. For more information, visit nku.edu. Greater Cincinnati, Cincinnati Bell and as well as practices like A-B days to other local partners. The “NKY Digital reduce student contact without losing

28 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com opportunities. The Global Consortium NKU launches health innovation accelerator of Entrepreneurship Centers selected the CIE as one of three finalists for the N February 2020, NKU’s Institute for Health Innovation (IHI) launched SoCap Accelerate, a Excellence in Entrepreneurship Teaching health innovation accelerator for NKY. and Pedagogical Innovation Award, its The six-week program targets companies looking to solve a health problem in an I third recognition in as many years. innovative way who have a beta version of their product ready for testing. SoCap Accelerate helps the companies grow and scale their businesses. The inaugural cohort joined the The CIE allows students to take program in October. ownership of their future through Participants are mentored on developing customers and building products as well as innovation and entrepreneurial activities marketing, legal and accounting guidance. The program does not offer funding or equity, but both inside and outside the classroom. is designed to help companies grow and consider the region as a destination. Many students take these classroom “Northern Kentucky is a fantastic place to build a business, especially startups in the health innovation field,” said Rico Grant, managing director of SoCap Accelerate. concepts and start their own business through NKU’s INKUBATOR program, an internationally ranked 12-week their partnerships with industry and soft-skills training, and participate in paid business accelerator. CIE’s guidance and workforce development. apprenticeships. The curriculum matches access to capital creates opportunities for Before the pandemic hit, the Kentucky each student with an industry mentor businesses at all stages, a commitment Education and Workforce Development for the duration of the program. Health distinguishing the center from its peers. Cabinet launched its third Kentucky care occupations are expected to grow by Other initiatives are focusing on training Advanced Technical College High more than 12.7% by 2024 and account nontraditional students in the constant program for students, this time in Northern for 9.8% of all jobs in Kentucky by 2026. push to grow the region’s workforce. For Kentucky. Known as K-TECH, the program Other sectors in high demand include example, the Life Learning Center in is designed to meet a demand for health care data analytics, technology and logistics. Covington collaborates with statewide workers in the state. NKU’s Vaidya emphasized that educators partners and offers help and hope for Through a collaborative effort with need to “double down” on providing the Northern Kentucky Cooperative internship and hands-on opportunities to for Educational Services, Northern learn for students in a COVID-appropriate Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, St. way. And, he emphasized that COVID Elizabeth Healthcare, NKU and Gateway has proved that all students, regardless Gateway photo Community and Technical College, of major, need to be incredibly adept in K-TECH focuses on preparing the technology, data and soft skills along with future workforce for health care careers cultural competency and global awareness. by increasing the number of students The university was able to keep participating in science, technology, pushing its entrepreneurship program engineering and math (STEM) courses in forward in 2020. NKU’s award- high school and postsecondary schools. winning Center for Innovation and K-TECH provides students in grades Entrepreneurship (CIE) is making 9-12 with an advanced STEM curriculum students’ professional dreams a reality, developed by local business and despite the ongoing pandemic. pREACHING GOALS Gateway Community industry partners. Students will have the The CIE has been named one of the and Technical College President Fernando Figueroa opportunity to meet potential employers, world’s best in creating, advancing and presented diplomas to graduates via a drive-thru take dual-credit course work, receive enabling entrepreneurship educational commencement celebration in July 2020. EDUCATION people in poverty and those with histories of addiction, mental illness and abuse. One of the employers it partners with is sustainability solutions provider Close the Loop in Hebron, which has made a commitment to second-chance hiring. On a larger level, the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce has a program that begins in elementary school. GROW NKY is a comprehensive, holistic workforce development/talent strategy initiative led by the NKY Chamber in conjunction with key workforce partners who are committed Photo courtesy of Thomas More University Photo courtesy of to driving outcomes for talent pipeline management for both supply and demand Healthcare, Gravity Diagnostics, CTI and pCATHOLIC CAMPUS Thomas More needs. The efforts will ensure that NKY can many other strategic partners across the University in Crestview Hills is a small, liberal arts school that serves more than 2,000 students. attract future businesses and retain current board. And third is our stewardship of place The Catholic university is highly connected to the businesses as a result of a strategic workforce by being an active community and a civic community: 81% of the university’s alumni live in effort, unique to Kentucky. partner.” the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region. Key focuses are on the region’s high- He is proud of how the school has demand sectors, including advanced accomplished these tasks in the era of manufacturing, IT, advanced logistics, COVID-19, and the school also swiftly least one credential aligned with one of health sciences, financial services and addressed mental, emotional and physical Kentucky’s five high-demand industry construction. needs, even partnering with Kroger to sectors, the college said. NKU also links up with key regional create a food pantry for students. For now, “The numbers are astonishing,” said industry sectors as it seeks to impact students are spaced out in residence halls Fernando Figueroa, Gateway president. economic development and quality of life and masks are mandatory on campus. “At Gateway, we have always known in the region through education. In May, NKU broke ground on our work was greatly impacting our “We think of NKU’s impact on the region a new residential building, the first community; this study validates our work in three intersecting buckets,” Vaidya said. student housing construction on campus throughout our region.” “Talent development: We produce the talent since 2003. The five-story, 77,200-s.f. Gateway started its fall 2020 semester the region needs, and 82% of our graduates development will fulfill a need for affordable with classes in a variety of platforms, stay this region, by far more than any living space. The development will house including online classes, face-to-face other in this region. The second is through 297 beds in a semi-suite style. The design classes with social distancing, and a research and innovation. We add value to will help create a sense of community mixture of both. economic development by aligning our among residential students, with large Thomas More University, a private research and scholarship to innovation. We lounge areas, meeting rooms and a lighted institution in Crestview Hills, signaled its have partnered with Kroger, St. Elizabeth event plaza. The project is scheduled to increased dedication to fine tuning online open this year and will be the first housing platforms when it appointed Angela complex to achieve LEED Silver certification Crawford, dean of Thomas More’s College Next-generation (a global rating system that measures a of Business, as vice president for digital, learning building’s sustainability) upon completion. graduate and professional programs at the university. HE Ignite Institute at Roebling Gateway has big impact on “As we continue to work and develop Innovation Center is a regional, local economy; Thomas More Thomas More’s next strategic plan, we Ttuition-free education center expands digital focus must invest in expanding digital, graduate that focuses on science, technology, Growth is happening in the region’s other and professional program opportunities engineering, arts and math (STEAM). The postsecondary schools, too. for undergraduate and graduate students, center serves the NKY/Greater Cincinnati area, providing education and experience Gateway Community and Technical including our working professionals,” in career fields that are in high demand College in Florence, part of the Kentucky said Joseph L. Chillo, president of in the regional community. Through a Community and Technical College Thomas More. partnership with the Boone and Kenton System, added nearly $90 million to In September, the university County school districts, Ignite offers NKY’s economy in 2018-2019, according announced that its fall traditional curriculum that can lead students to several to a study by Emsi, a national provider of enrollment was the second largest in its potential career pathways. The program provides a blended research to educational institutions. Much history, despite the pandemic. learning experience for scholars that of this impact, the college said, is made “This year’s returning student includes working collaboratively and by Gateway’s highly skilled alumni, who enrollment (817) is the largest in the independently using an online platform. fill a growing need for skilled trade and university’s history, surpassing the The teacher becomes a facilitator and technical positions. previous record of 806 last year. In the mentor to scholars, providing them Gateway’s graduates who are currently midst of COVID-19, our enrollment the resources and support they need to employed in the region’s workforce added achieve their goals. Scholars and teachers results are strong,” Chillo said. collaborate with industry partners to solve $69.9 million in added income to the The “village” in Northern Kentucky real-world problems. local economy. In the 2018-19 academic is proving it can handle any challenges year, 1,580 graduates were awarded at thrown at it. l

30 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com 2020 Lane Report Market Review 8.125x10.75 copy copy copy copy copy.pdf 1 12/21/20 9:43 AM

C

M

Y

CM we are a community of

MY

CY

CMY uncommon givers in K northern kentucky.

Contact us to learn how we can support you in your charitable giving. WWW.HORIZONFUNDS.ORG INNOVATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP Connecting ideas to resources NKY offers rich ecosystem of support for small businesses and entrepreneurs of all types

tSUPPORTING STARTUPS Lacy Starling started Legion Logistics in 2010 from the basement of her Northern Kentucky home. The company now has nearly 20 employees, and it specializes in refrigerated and frozen goods, multidrop freight, cross-border shipments and more. Starling says the Small Business Development Center at NKU, NKY Tri-ED, and Blue North are great resources for entrepreneurs who are trying to grow their businesses.

group, a host of coworking spaces, and incentives for private office spaces and renovations, to name a few. Blue North offers a digital ecosystem map

Photo courtesy of Legion Logistics on its website, bluenorthky.com, called Flightplan, to help entrepreneurs get plugged into local resources and fund curated third-party tools and tips. Brit Fitzpatrick, executive director of Blue North, said 30% of the grant funds are allocated to help scale community- based entrepreneur support programs at NKU; MORTAR Covington, an entrepreneurship initiative that assists BY RUSS BROWN Tri-ED launched Blue North in 2019 historically underserved populations; as the brand for its entrepreneurship and Aviatra Accelerators, a nonprofit that N 2009, Lacy Starling and her business program and services. In July 2020, Blue works with female entrepreneurs. partner, Tony Coutsoftides, who was North became an independent company, The MORTAR Entrepreneurship Ialso her husband at the time, came up and received a $510,000 RISE grant Academy is a 15-week course with with the idea to combine their knowledge for fiscal year 2021 from the Kentucky personalized attention designed for and start a business. Logistics seemed like Cabinet for Economic Development’s those who are starting or growing their a natural fit: Starling was the daughter Office of Entrepreneurship. businesses. Aviatra Accelerators helps of a truck driver, and she also had NKY offers a rich ecosystem of support women from Northern Kentucky and experience in business and marketing; for small businesses and entrepreneurs of Ohio start and sustain businesses by Coutsoftides was a former military all types, with a primary focus on supply giving them the resources they need to logistics specialist who later helped run chain technology, health innovation, be successful. Since its founding in 2010, a family cargo business overseas, and e-commerce, food and beverage it has granted over $1 million in low- he worked for logistics giant TQL at the businesses, and creative services agencies. interest loans and $10 million in follow- time. Blue North helps entrepreneurs up funding. After pouring their own funds into connect their ideas to resources that “The rest of the funds are being the business, which they operated from can help make it happen. Some of used to establish Blue North as a the basement of their home, Starling and those resources include accelerators, sustainable hub for Northern Kentucky’s Coutsoftides borrowed $30,000 from a incubators, a regional angel investment entrepreneurship community,” Fitzpatrick friend to help with the startup – a loan they repaid in just eight months. Legion Logistics is now a hugely COVID-19 connections in Covington successful freight management company based in Florence, Ky. It is also a perfect RAVITY Diagnostics, which has two locations in Covington, provides innovative laboratory testing, including infectious diseases, toxicology and pharmacogenomics. example of what can be accomplished When the COVID-19 pandemic struck the U.S. in March, the company began when entrepreneurial spirit is partnered G processing coronavirus tests from its CLIA-certified lab. By the end of November, Gravity had with supportive startup resources, increased its square footage by 900%. The company now has more than 200 team members, like the Small Business Development its revenue has skyrocketed, and it has processed more than 1.3 million tests. Center (SBDC) at Northern Kentucky Clinical Trial and Consulting Services, or CTI as it is known, is full-service contract University (NKU), Northern Kentucky research organization (CRO) that has its global headquarters in Covington. CTI is managing Tri-ED, and Blue North, an entrepreneur- more than two dozen active COVID-19 trials for treatment and prevention, including a Phase III trial for coronavirus treatment and a Phase III vaccine trial. focused organization that helps CTI has been working with Gravity Diagnostics to support its development of COVID-19 connect, strengthen and expand NKY’s testing, from helping them source supplies to lending direct assistance from members of its staff. entrepreneurial community.

32 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com Blue North photo

said. “That includes supporting valuable entrepreneurs reaching out for support, pENHANCING ENTREPRENEURSHIP programming and events like our many of whom are seeking help to launch Brit Fitzpatrick is executive director of Blue North, Northern Kentucky’s independent, entrepreneur- monthly supply chain meetup hosted new businesses formed in response to the focused organization. Through in-house services, through the Worldwide Supply Chain pandemic,” she said. “Data shows that regional programs and events, digital platforms, Federation (WSCF), our Startup Saturday entrepreneurial activity increases during and a connections-focused network, Blue North programs for entrepreneurial high economic recessions, and our metrics connects the region’s small businesses and startups school students, and our CO.STARTERS confirm that.” with the inclusive community, education, talent, customers, and capital they need to launch and entrepreneurship boot camp for aspiring Tri-ED has built strong relationships grow their ideas. and current entrepreneurs in Northern with two Covington companies, Gravity Kentucky’s rural counties.” Diagnostics and Clinical Trial and WSCF Virtual Supply Chain events Consulting Services (CTI), that are to connect entrepreneurs to resources working together on COVID-19 research problem in an innovative way and already and create a conversation about regional and testing. have a beta version of their product needs have been especially valuable this Gravity Diagnostics began preparing ready for testing. SoCap Accelerate helps year because of limitations caused by the for the possibility of processing these companies grow and scale their ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Monthly coronavirus tests from its lab in businesses. virtual meetings are held to discuss January 2020, and the Food and Drug Blue North also launched supply chain technology and innovation, Administration (FDA) approved the lab’s the Chattanoooga, Tenn.-based and to highlight regional startups. testing method on March 16. Since then, CO.STARTERS program in Owen County Fitzpatrick said Tri-ED and Blue North operations have grown significantly to in 2020, making it the first program of its switched to a 100% virtual model on over 200 team members and more than kind for NKY’s rural-based entrepreneurs. March 13, 2020, and have been operating 1 million testing results provided, with Lee Crume, president and CEO of Tri- virtually since. turnaround times of 18 to 24 hours. ED, said supporting entrepreneurship is “We’ve pivoted to virtual CTI, a privately held, full-service vitally important because, “As we learned workshops, meetups, fireside chats and contract research organization (CRO) this year, in a pandemic you need organic programming,” Fitzpatrick said. “We’ve with global headquarters in Covington, growth from your community.” also further increased our focus on was recently named the No. 1 CRO in Innovation is strong in Northern helping more small businesses create the world for quality. It is managing Kentucky, Fitzpatrick said, and the future tech-enabled business models while more than 20 active COVID-19 trials for for NKY entrepreneurs is bright. working to connect our growing startups treatment and prevention. She expects to see more activity over with access to inclusive forms of capital.” Innovation is growing, Fitzpatrick the next few years as a result of St. Elizabeth One might assume the pandemic said, and even more programs for Healthcare’s new cancer treatment center, would dampen entrepreneurship, but entrepreneurs are being launched. In the largest in the region. And continued the opposite has been true: Interest in February 2020, NKU’s Institute for Health activity at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky the organization’s services has actually Innovation launched SoCap Accelerate, a International Airport (CVG) is attracting increased, Fitzpatrick said. health innovation accelerator that targets new technology companies to the area to “We’ve seen an uptick in companies looking to solve a health take advantage of the infrastructure and resources the airport offers. In November 2020, Cincinnati-based ThorDrive announced it was bringing its autonomous vehicle technology to the airport’s campus. “I think we’ll see growth in supply chain and e-commerce businesses due to the infrastructure we offer through CVG and our proximity to the majority of the U.S.,” Fitzpatrick said. “I also think we’ll continue to grow as a ‘locally-owned business’ community while increasing opportunities and access for women and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, people of color) entrepreneurs.” l

lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 33 HEALTH CARE Sponsored by Anticipating tomorrow’s health needs NKY responds to evolving pandemic, but plans ahead to address future concerns

BY SHANNON CLINTON

HILE focusing their efforts on preventing the spread of WCOVID-19 and treating those who contracted it, health care leaders in Northern Kentucky also continued to look to the future health needs of its community. St. Elizabeth opened a new cancer center in 2020, increased its presence in southern Indiana, and tended to a budding partnership to help educate the health care practitioners of tomorrow. As the predominant health care system in Northern Kentucky, St. Elizabeth Healthcare is based in Edgewood and has five facilities in Northern Kentucky, as well as many private physicians’ practices. In all it employs approximately 10,000 St. Elizabeth photo and encompasses about 120 primary and specialty locations in Kentucky, Ohio and These grim statistics illustrate the need pENHANCED CARE The St. Elizabeth Cancer Indiana. In 2019, the system treated more for cancer care that includes convenient Center in Edgewood opened in late 2020. It than 315,000 patients. and proactive screening programs to offers cancer detection, diagnosis and care – all under one roof – with an emphasis on precision In October 2020, the $100 million St. detect cancer earlier and increase chances medicine and genomic health, screening education Elizabeth Cancer Center opened on the of better outcomes, said Sarah Giolando, and prevention, clinical research and innovative Edgewood campus, resulting in about senior vice president and chief strategy technology. The center will be able to treat nearly 100 new jobs. The 250,000-s.f., six-story officer at St. Elizabeth. 500 patients daily. facility will be able to treat nearly 500 “We know our community needs patients a day. enhanced cancer care now. The opening Underscoring the need for such a of the St. Elizabeth Cancer Center access cancer survivor resources and facility, the American Cancer Society lists will be a momentous occasion for our participate in clinics in which they can Kentucky as having an estimated 26,500 community as we work together to fight share common experiences with other new cases of cancer in 2020 and 10,540 cancer,” said Garren Colvin, president cancer patients and survivors. deaths, with the three most common and CEO of St. Elizabeth Healthcare. “Having that all in one place and having types being lung, breast and colorectal “Many Kentuckians rely on St. Elizabeth a navigator that helps you navigate all of cancers. The U.S. Centers for Disease for quality treatment across the health those resources is really, I think, a relief to Control lists cancer as the second leading care continuum. Now, we will be able people” battling cancer, she said. “There’s a cause of death in the commonwealth. to provide even greater access to more lot of science out there that the environment individuals facing a cancer diagnosis, can help in the healing process.” right here in our region and nation.” The goal is to have 20% of the center’s The cancer center offers new cancer patients in active clinical trials, treatments and diagnostic tools, including Giolando said. To do this, the center a low-dose CT scan that finds cancer in has partnered with the University of earlier stages, Giolando said. Kentucky Markey Cancer Center and The state-of-the-art center was the Mayo Clinic to have access to their made possible in part after a successful clinical trial programs, as well as those

St. Elizabeth photo fundraising campaign, with $35 million conducted by the Minnesota-based raised in Northern Kentucky and $1.5 national clinical trial network ACCRU million from the health care system’s own – Academic and Community Cancer associates. Research United. Now that it’s up and running, “That gives our patients the most Giolando expects patients from leading-edge treatments for those hard- pINITIAL DOSES St. Elizabeth Healthcare in Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio to use to-treat cancers,” Giolando said. Edgewood was among the first 11 hospital sites the center. In addition to traditional in Kentucky to receive the initial doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. They were designated for medical treatments, services also include Acquisitions and partnerships frontline staff who have been treating COVID-19 nutritional counseling, yoga, meditation, Even amidst a pandemic, St. Elizabeth patients. essential oils and more. Patients can Healthcare has embarked on ambitious

34 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com expansion plans, signing an agreement in Its first class of 35 began their studies, May 2020 to acquire Lawrenceburg, Ind.- and another class of 35 has since joined based Highpoint Health, subsequently them, Giolando said. renamed St. Elizabeth Dearborn. The “We’re very excited about that,” she said. agreement was finalized in early November. “The class filled up very quickly with just St. Elizabeth had assisted Highpoint amazingly qualified aspiring physicians.” Health with finances in 2019, but the The new campus will help fill a situation worsened with the impact of nationwide need for more physicians COVID-19, exacerbating challenges and UK’s desire to expand educational facing rural hospitals, such as declining opportunities for qualified candidates, St. Elizabeth saluted its health care heroes who reimbursements and escalating supply Giolando said. have been working on the front lines of the costs, Giolando said. The goal is to encourage students COVID-19 pandemic. “That’s when our talks became more to to stay in Northern Kentucky to serious and we wanted to more quickly practice medicine once they finish their Hope and healing consummate the deal so we could assist education. them the way we needed to financially,” Dr. Steven Haist is associate dean and for 2021 she said. Dr. Meredith Landorf is assistant dean Plans are to invest $70 million there for the UK College of Medicine Northern S we close the door on 2020, we over the next five years, including new Kentucky Campus. reflect on the past year with gratitude hospital/cancer center construction on Landorf said the first four classes to be Aand inspiration. The COVID-19 the Greendale, Ind., campus. admitted will each be comprised of 35. crisis had the ability to tear communities, Highpoint Health employees were “The class sizes are smaller and the industries and economies apart, but in true transferred over to St. Elizabeth’s medical community is a little bit smaller St. Elizabeth character, our team of dedicated employment, and 40 new physicians than Lexington,” she said. associates, providers and physicians faced it as a united front, locked arms and did not and providers became partners in St. Haist said most students hail from waver, no matter their personal fears. Elizabeth Physicians as part of the Kentucky and southern Ohio. Because of We would like to thank the dedicated acquisition, Giolando said. COVID-19, some of their instruction has associates, providers and physicians of “Our joint vision is to create a new, had to go virtual, but lectures were being St. Elizabeth Healthcare and St. Elizabeth comprehensive medical campus that streamed in from Lexington already, so Physicians. While the rest of the world has encompasses not only the existing St. students were accustomed to the format. had to retreat into the safety of their homes, Elizabeth outpatient facility located He said St. Elizabeth was welcoming these individuals have courageously stood on in Greendale, but a dedicated cancer and helpful as plans for the new campus the front line, or supported those standing care center, full-service emergency got underway. on the front line. They have been the calm department, a broad range of specialists, “They already had a list of 110-plus in the storm. They are amazing health care heroes who are focused on saving lives and surgery center and inpatient beds, which physicians that were interested in teaching, helping people when they need it the most. would improve access to health care and several of them have become involved We now open the door to 2021, a in the region into the future,” said St. with the program,” he said. year that will be filled with hope and healing Elizabeth President and CEO Garren as a COVID-19 vaccination has become Colvin at the time of the acquisition. Pandemic response a reality. At St. Elizabeth, we have been In September 2019, St. Elizabeth, the Throughout the pandemic, St. Elizabeth able to vaccinate hundreds of our frontline UK College of Medicine and Northern has continued to enhance its patient associates, providers, and physicians who, Kentucky University (NKU) launched a and staff safety protocol to combat in their line of work, have the most risk of collaborative effort to open a four-year COVID-19. The NKY health care system exposure to COVID-19 patients. regional campus in Northern Kentucky, increased sanitation measures, including Plans are still being developed to determine when St. Elizabeth will be able dubbed the UK College of Medicine electrostatic sprayers and UV light to offer the COVID-19 vaccine to patients Northern Kentucky Campus. systems and high-tech vacuums. and the public. This will take time, so please St. Elizabeth was awarded $69 million continue to wear masks, socially distance in grants through the CARES Act Provider and practice other safety measures. Our goal St. Elizabeth first in U.S. Relief Fund, and $98 million in advance is to distribute this vaccine safely, equitably, to implant Bluetooth payments from Medicare to assist in its and transparently according to guidelines pandemic response. That figure will be set by the Centers for Disease Control and heart device repaid via reduced reimbursements, Prevention (CDC). Please visit stelizabeth. Giolando said. com/covid-vaccine for up-to-date guidelines, N September 2020, Dr. Mohamad Sinno In the early days of the pandemic, health and safety information, phases of performed the first implantation in the distribution and more. shortages of personal protective IU.S. of a Bluetooth-enabled biventricular In the weeks and months ahead, as more implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) at equipment (PPE) like masks and other vaccine allocations are distributed, we look St. Elizabeth Edgewood. protective medical gear were concerning forward to bringing additional healing to our Internal defibrillators are implantable but supplies are better now, Giolando health care team, patients and community. devices for patients who are at risk of life- said. In late 2020, as cases spiked across With gratitude and hope, threatening heart rhythm problems. The Garren Colvin smartphone connectivity in the device is the commonwealth, “COVID fatigue” expected to substantially improve patient has been a concern, as flu season also President and CEO, St. Elizabeth Healthcare remote monitoring rates and patient loomed. Still, Giolando remains hopeful. Robert Prichard Jr., MD engagement in monitoring. “Though the numbers are even higher President and CEO, St. Elizabeth Physicians today, I think we feel much more in lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 35 HEALTH CARE uEXPANSION AND COLLABORATION The University of Kentucky College of Medicine joined partners St. Elizabeth Healthcare and Northern Kentucky University for a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the fall of 2019 that officially marked the opening of UK’s Northern Kentucky Campus. The inaugural class had 35 students medical students. The NKY site was the second four-year regional campus opened by the UK College of Medicine; the first opened in Bowling Green in 2018. control of how we’re managing things, and that’s a good feeling,” she said. St. Elizabeth avoided having to lay off any staff in 2020, despite reduced surgery volumes as procedures were postponed. Some employees were reassigned temporarily to areas of greatest need, like cleaning. “We’ve been very proud of that and NKU photo that was an intentional decision that we made early on in the pandemic,” COVID-19 by working closely with local elected officials, the health care system, ST. ELIZABETH HEALTHCARE Giolando said. Northern Kentucky St. Elizabeth Healthcare supplied backup workplaces, schools, first responders and stelizabeth.com support for long-term care and nursing other state and local community partners home facilities early on in the pandemic to provide guidance, information and St. Elizabeth Healthcare and also supplied staff for area testing resources. NKY Health also managed the operates six hospitals and stations supported by state government. region’s disease investigation and contract more than 150 primary tracing. The health department serves the care and specialty office St. Elizabeth also has applied to become a locations in Northern vaccine distribution point. 400,000 residents of Boone, Campbell, Kentucky and southeastern From the beginning of the pandemic, Grant and Kenton counties. Indiana. A member of the Northern Kentucky Health As cases spiked, the health department the Mayo Clinic Care Garren Colvin, Department (NKY Health) focused its adjusted its strategy to prioritize how it Network, St. Elizabeth President and CEO resources on preventing the spread of investigates cases and notifies contacts is a mission-based and told residents to assume they were at organization committed to improving the health of the communities it heightened risk of exposure every time serves, providing more than $116 million NKY area hospitals they interacted with people within 6 feet in uncompensated care and benefit to the • , founded in St. Elizabeth Healthcare of each other for 15 minutes or longer. community in 2018. For more information, 1861, operates five facilities throughout visit stelizabeth.com. Northern Kentucky. Its multi-specialty physician organization, St. Elizabeth COVID-19 vaccine Physicians, has more than 400 doctors, St. Elizabeth Healthcare was one of 11 115 advanced practice providers hospitals to receive the initial doses of designed for transdisciplinary research and and more than 1,200 nonprovider COVID-19 vaccine in mid-December collaboration between the campus and associates at more than 130 offices in 2020. The hospital received 975 doses of the community. Throughout the building NKY, southwest Ohio and southeast the Pfizer vaccine to administer to its staff are spaces for learning, collaboration and Indiana. • Cincinnati Children’s Hospital is members who are working directly with practice. The HIC includes high-tech, real- nationally recognized as a leader in coronavirus patients. world learning spaces like the St. Elizabeth pediatric health care. It has 16,188 Dr. Dora Savani, infectious disease Simulation Center and collaborative spaces employees. specialist, was the first person to be given from formal meeting rooms to informal • The Christ Hospital has an extensive the vaccine at St. Elizabeth. Savani’s “tireless gathering nooks. network of 1,200 doctors serving in dedication and leadership to caring for our NKU announced its Health Care more than 100 locations throughout Greater Cincinnati. patients with COVID-19 has been inspiring Commercialization Certificate program • University of Cincinnati Medical to all of us at St. Elizabeth,” the health care in fall 2020, the nation’s first graduate Center (UC Health) is an integrated system said on its Facebook page. program focused on developing and academic health system serving Greater launching new products or services Cincinnati and NKY. Hands-on health care learning in the health care marketplace. The • Mercy Health has five Cincinnati-area Health care students at NKU get state- new program focuses on translating hospital locations, including The Jewish Hospital-Mercy Health, Mercy Health of-the-art training at the university’s fundamental research and development – Anderson Hospital, Mercy Health Health Innovation Center (HIC). The into products, services and procedures – Clermont Hospital, Mercy Health – center supports an integrated portfolio that are cost-effective and efficient. Fairfield Hospital and Mercy Health – of programs to prepare a new generation Students can complete the HCC West Hospital. of health care professionals for the future Certificate in as few as six months. HCC’s • TriHealth has three hospitals in and to provide solutions to the health curriculum is geared toward medical Cincinnati: Bethesda North, Bethesda and wellness challenges of the region and providers, entrepreneurs and those ready Butler and Good Samaritan. commonwealth. It is an advanced facility to advance their careers. l

36 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com

LOGISTICS & TRANSPORTATION Sponsored by ‘Cargo is booming’ Logistic officials expect surge to continue, transportation officials predict slow recovery Photo courtesy of CVG

BY GREG PAETH Consider three vitally important p100 NEW JOBS CVG and FEAM Aero officials stories that are expected to unfold this illustrated the magnitude of a 747 cargo jet at the grand opening of FEAM Aero’s new 103,000-s.f. T’S a pretty good bet that 2021 will year: hangar at CVG in January 2020. The hangar can prove to be an extraordinary year for • Amazon, the million-ton gorilla of accommodate the largest aircraft at CVG for Ithe tightly intertwined logistics and online retailing, is expected to open the maintenance. The $19 million investment added transportation industries in Northern first phase of its $1.5 billion air hub and 100 new jobs to the region. Kentucky. distribution center in Northern Kentucky That’s saying quite a bit in the wake sometime before the 2021 holiday of 2020, which will be cemented in our season. The company said it will create established itself as a logistics mecca for memories as the year that COVID-19 some 2,000 jobs once the entire facility the country. wreaked havoc on just about every aspect is up and running on property owned • For the first time in 20 years, the of our lives. by the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), where – the TANK bus system – will introduce CINCINNATI/ Amazon is expected to handle 64 flights what it calls a substantial “redesign” of its NORTHERN services as it eliminates six routes and begins KENTUCKY every day. INTERNATIONAL • Repairs have been made to the Brent to concentrate its efforts in high-population AIRPORT (CVG) Spence Bridge, which was damaged areas along existing routes. The move is 3087 Terminal Dr. in November by a fiery tractor-trailer designed to counter a decline in ridership in Hebron, KY 41048 the region and elsewhere in the country that cvgairport.com collision. The bridge carries 160,000 cars Candace per day – and it was designed to carry has been caused, in part, by low gas prices. McGraw, CEO, As the potential impact of these Cincinnati Northern just 80,000. It is also one of the busiest Cincinnati topics indicates, 2021 may present an Kentucky International Northern trucking routes in the United States, with unsettling blend of good news and bad Airport (CVG) is Kentucky freight equaling 3% of the nation’s gross International for everyone who’s immersed in logistics embracing what’s next as domestic product crossing the bridge Airport and transportation in the Cincinnati/ an essential part of the each year. Northern Kentucky officials Northern Kentucky metropolitan region, region’s overall growth and success, serving have long been advocating for funding where it’s estimated that more than more nonstop destinations than any to upgrade the bridge, which originally 106,000 people work in those broadly airport in the Tri-State. CVG is one of the opened in 1963. Officials hope the crash defined categories. Of those, some 30,000 fastest-growing airports in the U.S. in both and shutdown, which lasted nearly six workers make their homes in Boone, passenger and cargo traffic, and is one weeks, will shine the light once again Campbell and Kenton counties, according of three global super hubs for DHL and on the need to upgrade the critically to Northern Kentucky Tri-County future home to Amazon Air Hub. important north-south truck route – one of the reasons why Kentucky has Economic Development Corp. (Tri-ED),

38 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com uHUGE INVESTMENT Amazon expects to open the first phase of its $1.5 billion air hub and distribution center at the Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport in 2021. The company’s investment in Northern Kentucky will result in 2,000 new jobs once the entire operation is up and running, Amazon has said. Since 2010, Amazon has created more than 14,500 full- and part-time jobs at its Kentucky facilities.

which focuses on economic development in three counties that have a combined population of about 385,000. Amazon photo In her job as the CEO of CVG, Candace McGraw had a free front- some businesses, said McGraw, who “For 2021, our budget is projecting row seat for the complete spectrum of oversees an institution that is said to that we’ll be at about 50% of the 2019 pandemic-related news. have an annual economic impact of $6.8 passenger levels,” said McGraw, who noted At one level, the airport and most billion and 14,500 “badged employees” that airfares now rank 92nd in the country of its employees managed to avoid who work for the airport or other with an average of $215, according to the skyrocketing infection rates that crippled companies located on airport property. U.S. Department of Transportation. Despite becoming only the third She also said that because of TRANSIT AUTHORITY airport in the country to receive COVID-19, “cargo is booming.” OF NORTHERN KENTUCKY a COVID-related “Airport Health “Throughout the pandemic, cargo is 3375 Madison Pike Fort Wright, KY 41017 Accreditation” from an international trade operating at (Christmas) holiday volumes (859) 331-8265 association in mid-September, passengers and continues to do so,” said McGraw. In tankbus.org stayed away and numbers declined mid-November, she said, shipments were dramatically throughout 2020. up 13.5% over last year, which had been Transit Authority of “With the pandemic, our passenger a record year for the seventh-largest cargo Northern Kentucky is the public transportation levels are down, of course, but compared airport in the country. “Cargo continues Andrew with all airports throughout the country, to be the bright spot. E-commerce has provider for Boone, Aiello, General Kenton, and Campbell Manager, we’re tracking – thankfully – slightly been accelerated by this pandemic.” Counties. TANK routes Transit above the national level for airports our Kentucky boasts that it’s the only state connect people to jobs, Authority size. So we will likely finish this year with in the country with three international helping the companies of Northern about 35% of the passengers we had in air shipping hubs: UPS in Louisville, and in the region meet their Kentucky workforce needs. TANK 2019, and that’s faring better than some DHL and Amazon in Northern Kentucky, strives to meet the transportation needs of my airport colleagues,” McGraw said. where those two companies temporarily of the entire community, providing nearly For 2019, the airport reported 9.1 share the DHL building, with some 2,000 3.5 million work, school and other lifeline million passengers. DHL employees handling 90% of the trips per year. It’s TANK’s mission to As the COVID-19 crisis worsened late German shipper’s deliveries to the U.S. provide safe, reliable, customer-oriented in the year, McGraw made it clear that Amazon, which broke ground on its transportation and TANK will continue to CVG and the airline industry don’t expect Air Hub in May of 2019, operates 11 be committed to providing transportation services that address the current and future an immediate bounce back. For 2021, fulfillment centers in the state, according needs of the community. passenger levels are projected at 50% of to the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic the 2019 total, McGraw said. Development (KCED). The company said

We’re more than just a ride. TANK is committeed to offering a better, smarter, more responsible way to travel.

TANK. The better way to get where you need to be.

TANKBUS.ORG LOGISTICS & TRANSPORTATION

“We operate distribution centers for the p$6.8 BILLION IMPACT Cincinnati/Northern VERST LOGISTICS Kentucky International Airport (CVG) is home to 300 Shorland Drive largest grocery chain in the U.S. and as you can imagine, their volume has been through the Amazon Air Hub and the DHL Express Global Walton, KY 41094 Superhub, in addition to nine air cargo carriers. In (800) 978-9307 the roof,” said Paul Verst, chairman and 2020, CVG was named the seventh-largest cargo verstlogistics.com CEO. “Also, with so many people working airport in North America. or staying at home, our e-commerce/ Verst is an Inbound Logistics Magazine Top Paul T. Verst, fulfillment customers are having a record 100 asset-based third- Chairman/CEO, year as well since so many people are party logistics company Verst Logistics ordering products online. From a negative certainly seeing this in day-to-day business,” providing transportation, perspective, our automotive customers said TQL President Kerry Byrne, whose warehousing, e-commerce fulfillment and closed plants for four to six weeks so we company was ranked in November as the packaging solutions for clients throughout were forced to furlough employees on a largest privately held company in Cincinnati the U.S. For over 50 years Verst, has provided resources that help extend the expertise and temporary basis, but most – if not all – are by the Cincinnati Enquirer, with 2019 capability of its customers. back to work now. revenues of about $3.4 million. “Grocery “We believe consumers will continue and e-commerce continue to occupy a large to purchase more products online part of that, but we’re also seeing an uptick that since 2010 it has created 14,500 full- after the pandemic is over, so we see a in lumber and metals due to growth in and part-time jobs in Kentucky, where it continued exponential increase in our residential construction.” has invested $15 billion in infrastructure e-commerce business,” said Verst, adding Robert Martinchenko, founder of and wages. that revenues for 2020 have increased by LeanCor and senior vice president at Atlas Air, an airfreight firm based “double digits.” Transplace, also said his company and its in Purchase, N.Y., that has a “strategic “The COVID-19 pandemic has customers did well in 2020. relationship” with Amazon, is scheduled fundamentally changed the way we all “For our clients who need to transport to open a new office a few miles from do business. Any company who thinks essential products, we have experienced a CVG in 2021. Atlas and other companies business will return as usual when this is remarkable surge in business. Now, we’re under its corporate umbrella operate the over will more than likely not be here in world’s largest fleet of Boeing 747 freight the next year or two,” he said. aircraft, the company said. It was a similar story at Total Quality qHIGH DEMAND Verst Logistics, a large third- FEAM Aero opened a $19 million, Logistics (TQL), a Cincinnati company party logistics company headquartered in Walton, 103,000-s.f. cargo hangar at CVG in that describes itself as the largest privately experienced an “exponential increase” in its held freight broker in the country. e-commerce business throughout the pandemic. January 2020. It accommodates wide- The company offers fully integrated transportation, body 747 aircraft for maintenance, repair “National freight activity is drastically warehousing, product fulfillment, contract and overhaul. The company services elevated compared to 2019 and TQL is packaging and e-commerce services. DHL, WOW Air, Atlas Air and Amazon Air’s fleet at CVG. The project created 100 new, high-paying aircraft mechanic jobs, increasing FEAM Aero’s employment at CVG to 300 jobs. “Among CVG’s strategic goals are to grow air cargo operations, and develop available airport land, both of which are achieved with this project,” McGraw said. FedEx also has a substantial presence Logistics Photo courtesy of Verst in Northern Kentucky, where 500 people work in a ground-package facility, according to KCED. Verst Logistics in Walton, which has about 1,900 employees in five states and is a major player in Northern Kentucky and elsewhere in the country, also felt the impact of the pandemic in both positive and negative ways.

40 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com     

Warehousing Capacity – Strategically Located Technology That Works Flexible, national capacity. Located in the key Midwest Integrated TMS and advanced WMS. Automatic transportation corridor adjacent to Cincinnati/Northern data capturing technology, KPI tracking and powerful Kentucky Airport. analytics tools. Ful llment – Get Your Product to Market Fast Excellent Service One to two-day ground delivery to over 85% of U.S. Experienced staff committed to providing immediate Competitive parcel and freight rates. Shopping cart and professional service, 24 hours a day, 7 days a integration with 99% order accuracy. week. Transportation Services – On-Time Every Time Experience to Solve Your Logistics Challenges Dedicated, transportation management and As an Inbound Logistics Top 100 3PL, Verst has brokerage. Time critical and window delivery. been providing services for start-ups to Fortune 500 ELD compliant, GPS tracking, GEO fencing and organizations since 1966. experienced drivers. Customized Packaging Solutions Largest North American shrink sleeve labeler. High- impact graphics, value-added packaging and turn-key solutions for many of the world’s leading consumer brands. Contact us today!

Warehousing | Fulfi llment | Transportation | Packaging 800-978-9307 | verstlogistics.com

© 20202021 Verst Logistics

Verst Division Stripes Ad 071420.indd 1 7/14/2020 3:54:14 PM LOGISTICS & TRANSPORTATION

Carlisle & Bray Covington CEVA Logistics Hebron Complete Forklift Repair Corinth DACHSER Transport of America Burlington DHL Express (USA) Erlanger DHL Global Forwarding Hebron FedEx Ground Independence FITS Enterprises FITS Trailer Leasing Walton Inland Marine Service Hebron pSERVICE CHANGES Transit Authority of March through August. The bus system Kuehne + Nagel Erlanger Northern Kentucky (TANK) has redesigned its tried to reduce COVID-19 cases by system to offer more frequent service within a LeanCor, a Transplace Co. quarter mile of more densely populated areas and eliminating contacts with drivers and the Florence handling of currency or bus passes. along routes people use to get to and from work. Legion Logistics The plan will increase the number of people within As more and more downtown Florence walking distance to frequent transit by 155%, Cincinnati office workers began to work McLane Foodservice Distribution and increase the number of jobs within walking from home and gas prices remained low, distance to frequent transit by 58%. Hebron monthly ridership fell from about 300,000 Merchants Cold Storage to 150,000, said Aiello, adding that the Walton pandemic accentuated passenger decline NNR Global Logistics USA supporting shippers in managing the all- that had been evident for the last five years. Erlanger important holiday season. Our clients are “Our experience was common for Panalpina Inc. also telling us that the necessary restocking bus systems throughout the country. Bus Erlanger of shelves will keep them busy until well ridership has seen a decline throughout the PEI – Dynamic Supply Chain Solutions Florence into first quarter 2021,” Martinchenko said. U.S,” he said. TANK redesigned its system in 2020 to Pilot Freight Services The supply chain consulting and Erlanger training firm made plenty of news in offer more frequent service within a quarter R.L. Swearer Co. 2020, when it spent $4.4 million to mile of more densely populated areas and Erlanger move its headquarters to a new location along routes people use to get to and from Safe Ship Northern Kentucky in Florence and planned to add 53 jobs. work. Changes took effect in January 2021. Fort Thomas Then in September, LeanCor was acquired “More frequency has worked in other Sandvik Americas Distribution Center by Transplace, a logistics technology and bus systems in the country,” Aiello said. Hebron services firm in Frisco, Texas. The redesigned system will increase SEKO Logistics Cincinnati The Castellini Group of Companies, one the number of people within walking Florence of the largest fresh produce distributors in distance to frequent transit by 155%, and Southern Air the United States, completed the expansion increase the number of jobs within walking Florence of its facility in Wilder, Ky., in 2020. The distance to frequent transit by 58%. TANK Stett Transportation Fort Mitchell expansion allowed for two of its business projects that the number of transportation- disadvantaged individuals within walking Team Worldwide CVG lines to work from one facility, making it Erlanger more efficient. distance of frequent transit will increase by Thermo Fisher Scientific Florence The 125-year-old company also 157%; the number of revenue hours needed Florence to operate the new system will decrease unveiled an updated logo and website, Total Quality Logistics complete with online ordering and by 2.4%; and the number of peak vehicles Erlanger tracking capabilities, and announced that needed will decrease by over 20%. Two Men and a Truck Northern Kentucky the company would adopt a new, simpler Erlanger name: Castellini. LOGISTICS COMPANIES UPS Freight Amazon and Amazon Air Cincinnati Riding into the future Hebron UPS Supply Chain Solutions Across Northern Kentucky, many of the Aries Global Logistics Hebron employees who keep Amazon, DHL and Crestview Hills Verst Logistics FedEx humming depend on TANK buses, B & B Transportation Walton according to Andrew Aiello, general Burlington Vista Packaging & Logistics Hebron manager of the bus system for Northern Bluegrass Diesel Specialists Burlington VR Transportation Kentucky. BM2 Freight Services Hebron Aiello saw ridership plummet even Walton though his passengers rode free from This is not a comprehensive list. l

42 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com FINANCIAL SERVICES Tech investments pay off Region’s banks help businesses through pandemic, find new ways to connect with customers

BY GREG PAETH employees healthy as they attempted to pBANKING BENEFITS Northern Kentucky keep pace with rapidly changing state bank clients get hometown service, but they also IKE virtually every other business and local regulations as well as guidance benefit from being across the river from one of the nation’s largest metropolises. in the country that depends on from health-care professionals. Lnuts-and-bolts transactions coupled While those measures tamped down with face-to-face relationships, banks the number of people who walked in Northern Kentucky, throughout through the doors, low mortgage interest employees bolstered bottom lines for the state and across the country were rates for home buyers and the federal some banks in the state. forced to make dramatic changes in government’s Payroll Protection Program One other huge COVID-impact their operations to keep customers and (PPP) to help small businesses and their change: Most bankers interviewed said they were convinced that “stay/work at home” orders accelerated the acceptance of mobile banking for a task that once involved bank foyers, teller lines and pre- printed paper forms in triplicate. David Wallace, CEO and chairman of Heritage Bank in Burlington, said COVID-19 hastened the acceptance of new technology for customers who might have been reluctant adopters in the past.

tFUTURE OF BANKING Heritage Bank, with headquarters in Erlanger, is the largest bank based in Northern Kentucky. It ranks No. 9 by market share in the Cincinnati metropolitan statistical area. As banking has become more mobile, Heritage Bank officials say they are investing in new technology and digital security.

lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 43 FINANCIAL SERVICES

PNC BANK facing technology…,” said Wallace. has been the need to offer the full range 201 E. Fifth Street “People who have become accustomed of digital services,” said Louis Fender, Cincinnati, OH 45202 to the convenience of conducting more WesBanco’s senior vice president and (513) 651-8921 of their banking online are going to senior banker for southwest Ohio and pnc.com continue to bank online. We’ve seen Northern Kentucky. “WesBanco has long As a Main Street bank, online banking registrations and usage had a robust platform of digital banking PNC is focused on helping Kay Geiger, grow by leaps and bounds.” services that meets the unique needs of businesses receive the Greater Heritage Bank is the largest bank with our customers.” assistance they need Cincinnati/ a home office in Northern Kentucky and WesBanco, with a home office in during these difficult Northern operates 17 offices in the Northern Kentucky Wheeling, W.Va., has nine branches in times. The challenges Kentucky counties of Boone, Campbell, Grant, Kenton Northern Kentucky and eight more in presented by the pandemic Regional have been augmented by President and Pendleton. Heritage Bank celebrated its metropolitan Cincinnati. the emergence of one of 30th anniversary in 2020. As technology evolved and the the most important civil rights movements Bill Jones, regional executive for pandemic continued, more and more in modern times. PNC also is committed the community east division of U.S. people chose to do their transactional to doing its part to address systemic racism Bank, agreed with Wallace about how banking – depositing a check, making a and support the economic empowerment technology has changed banking. U.S. mortgage payment – on mobile devices, of African Americans and low- to moderate- income communities. Specifically, PNC has Bank is headquartered in Cincinnati and according to Jason E. Payne, senior vice announced a $1 billion commitment, which has six offices in Boone County, five in president and managing director for will come to life largely through its work in Campbell and eight in Kenton. Republic Bank in Northern Kentucky, community development banking. PNC’s “Today, two-thirds of all banking where three of its offices are located. community development banking team transactions occur on a mobile device (and) The pandemic forced banks to rely works to boost the quality of life in low and geography is no longer a barrier to building more and more on technology because moderate-income neighborhoods through financial education, consumer programs, and maintaining a customer relationship. We of risks associated with in-office and community development lending are re-imagining what the ‘future of banking’ transactions. and investing. looks like by investing in new technology Many customers opted to use and digital security,” said Jones, whose bank “contactless cards” that don’t have to be is part of U.S. Bancorp in Minneapolis, the swiped or inserted, while mobile and online “The biggest impact on Heritage Bank fifth-largest in the country with $547 billion banking continued to grow faster than brick is the uptick in customers embracing in assets and some 70,000 employees. and mortar transactions at Central Bank, digital banking capabilities. It validates “One of the biggest transitions for said Paul R. Thornsberry, executive vice the investment we made in consumer- the banking industry that has emerged president and director of lending for the CENTRAL BANK Four NKY locations (859) 905-5502 centralbank.com

With roots dating back to 1946, Central Bank remains a community Jim Uebel, bank, dedicated to serving Northern the people and businesses Kentucky of Kentucky. Central Bank Market offers local customer President service and support, as well as online, mobile and phone banking services available 24 hours a day. To learn more, visit centralbank.com or stop by one of four Northern Kentucky locations in Crestview Hills, Florence, Fort Mitchell The most recent market-share uNEIGHBORLY SERVICE Central Bank has or Union. information on deposits for the metro four locations in NKY – two in Boone County area shows that U.S. Bank holds nearly and two in Kenton County. half of the $162 billion on deposit in the Lexington-based institution. “I think this 685 bank branches that are affiliated with banks that have $34.7 billion in deposits, (the pandemic) may have accelerated that 58 institutions in Ohio, Kentucky and a according to FDIC reports. some,” he said. sliver of southeast Indiana. Although most bankers rejected the What is not changing, Republic Bank’s Cincinnati-based Fifth Third Bank notion that processing applications for Payne said, are the relationships with comes in second with nearly $46 billion, the “forgivable” PPP loans was simple, customers. which represents a little more than 28% quick and lucrative, a number of “You still need to have conversations of the deposits in the region, according to bankers acknowledged that handling around anything from an automobile FDIC data as of June 30, 2020. Heritage the loans opened their doors to new loan all the way up to a $10 million Bank in Burlington ranked ninth with customers. commercial loan,” he said. 19 offices and about $1.04 billion on “Some of the larger banks couldn’t Competition among banks was keen deposit. respond quickly enough and then despite concerns about COVID-19 and By comparison, the Louisville metro (businesses) turned to Republic,” Payne the dark clouds it cast over the economy. area is second largest in the state, with 41 said. “We got a lot of really good clients

BUSINESS OWNER? WE’RE CENTRAL TO YOU. CENTRAL BUSINESS CHECKING

Whether it’s online or with a checkbook, Central Bank Business Checking Accounts give you the accessibility and flexibility to move your business forward.

So, if you’re a high-volume corporation or a few-checks-a-month start-up, Central Bank offers checking accounts that strike a balance of performance and economy. Visit your nearest Central Bank today and discover which business checking account works best for you.

Crestview Hills • Fort Mitchell • Florence • Union 859-905-5502 • centralbank.com Member FDIC FINANCIAL SERVICES

just because we responded in such a processing PPP applications provided CIVISTA BANK crisis moment. They moved their banking a valuable introduction to his bank 300 Buttermilk Pike to us, so locally we’ve gained a significant for many business owners who hadn’t Suite 103 amount of new, really good clients that banked there before. Fort Mitchell, KY 41017 (800) 604-9368 moved over to us from some of the larger “We did not shut ours (the lending civista.bank banks in town.” program) down to (existing) customers only. Payne said Republic invested much We opened it up to noncustomers as well, Civista Bank offers Mark Sams, time and energy in the PPP loan program so we have benefited with some additional a uniquely local Market that was designed to help businesses relationships out of that,” he said. commitment to Executive retain their employees even if business All of the bankers who were relationship banking, combined with over 135 years of experience activity had been snuffed out by the interviewed said their banks participated and strength. That is a commitment built pandemic. Louisville-based Republic in the PPP loan program that provided on knowing clients personally, making local Bank is the largest bank with a home loans to businesses that were required to decisions, and delivering the services office in the commonwealth and ranks keep people on their payrolls rather than to meet their daily and future financial sixth statewide in its share of deposits. lay them off. needs with ease. The Civista team of “The loans were kind of revenue U.S. banks collected billions of dollars personal, business, mortgage, wealth management and private banking neutral – almost a neutral offset,” said in fees that ranged from 1% to 5% for professionals provides trusted financial Payne. “It’s certainly a business model processing applications. solutions tailored to each client. With over you wouldn’t pursue permanently.” Smaller banks participated less while $2.8 billion in assets and 37 offices across Central Bank, headquartered in big banks went all in. Heritage Bank, Ohio, southeastern Indiana and Northern Lexington, helped some cash-strapped small by national metrics, made 995 Kentucky, Civista is distinctively sized to borrowers by approving “modifications” loans for about $108.5 million, Wallace serve a broad range of business clients and to existing loans while it processed about said. their employees and families. 9% of the PPP applications that were filed WesBanco processed some 7,200 loans by Kentucky businesses. for about $853 million, which included Civista Bank, headquartered in “We got out front of that (the PPP 83% that were less than $150,000 each, Sandusky, Ohio, helped more than 2,200 program) early on so we were prepared for Fender said. U.S. Bank, with offices in businesses secure over $250 million in that,” said Thornsberry, whose bank made 26 states, processed more than 108,000 PPP loans, allowing the businesses to 2,526 loans for more than $412 million. loans for about $7.6 billion, including support more than 36,000 employees, Like nearly every bank executive about 1,900 in Kentucky for more than said Mark Sams, regional market who was interviewed, Thornsberry said $126 million, the bank reported. executive. Trusted Solutions.

Zachery Bailey Greg Corsmeier Private Banking Mortgage Lending Focused on You. NMLS# 869670 NMLS# 643600 859.320.1254 859.320.1252 You can count on Civista Bank to bring creative, customized solutions and prompt Over answers to your business and personal banking needs. Our experienced team is focused on $1 billion your ongoing success and the growth of the in loans outstanding to communities we call home. commercial businesses. Whether you want to finance a project, Kevin Garrett David Stringer purchase new inventory or buy a new Commercial Banking Commercial Banking 859.320.1253 859.320.1251 home, our primary goal is to help you achieve yours. Learn more at civista.bank

Mark Sams Commercial Banking 300 Buttermilk Pike, Suite 103 812.496.0704 Fort Mitchell, KY 41017 800.604.9368 Member FDIC NMLS# 412766

46 19CZN69The CommBankAd_7x4.875_r1.inddLane Report’s Northern Kentucky 1 Market Review 2021 11/18/19lanereport.com 4:17 PM t22 BRANCHES IN NKY Fifth Third Bank, headquartered in Cincinnati, is one of the largest MCM CPAS & ADVISORS consumer banks in the Midwestern United States. 201 East Fifth St. It has 22 branches in Boone, Campbell and Kenton Suite 2100 counties. Cincinnati, OH 45202 (513) 579-1717 mcmcpa.com friendly and welcoming, kind of like the MCM is a regional Brad Smith, bar in the old “Cheers” sitcom where accounting firm that “everybody knows your name.” They Managing exists to help both its Partner recognize the importance of one-on-one clients and team succeed. interactions, most bankers said. It provides a wide range of services and “The customer is at the heart of expertise in audit, tax and a broad range everything we do. While the pace of of business advisory that go beyond traditional accounting services to help its innovation accelerates, our focus on the clients thrive. customer ensures we provide products MCM helps privately and publicly and services that are safe, simple and held businesses and individuals across convenient,” U.S. Bank’s Jones said. the region and the country identify The key to remaining successful at opportunities and anticipate challenges maintaining and growing relationships from all angles. Its clients receive is to continue to provide responsive and personalized attention and local access from national-level talent. MCM is exceptional customer support, including regularly recognized as one of the financial advice and digital services, United States’ top 100 CPA firms, as WesBanco’s Fender said. ranked annually by Accounting Today and “Many Civista employees crossed With more than $1 billion in deposits Inside Public Accounting (IPA). Its offices department lines and worked late into the in the region and what sounds like are located Cincinnati; Louisville and night many nights to secure funds for our high-tech sophistication, Wallace was Lexington, KY; and Indianapolis and Jeffersonville, IN. customers,” he said. “This effort continues optimistic about his bank’s future. as we are actively assisting borrowers “We look forward to driving a sharper submit their PPP Forgiveness Requests to distinction between Heritage Bank and between Heritage Bank and smaller the Small Business Administration.” competitors who use technology to community banks whose technology has Regardless of their size, banks reduce head count and personal customer not kept pace. It’s a unique niche – sort of want customers to believe that they’re interaction as well as the distinction the best of both worlds,” he said. l

Helping companies scale by providing innovative solutions, industry expertise and relationships you can count on.

PeoPle leaders excellence Matter. InsPIre. rules.

888.587.1719 | www.mcmcpa.com | LEGAL SERVICES Strong dose of expertise Region’s law firms busier than ever helping clients make tough choices, find assistance

tPANDEMIC PARTNERS NKY law firms say they have spent much of 2020 advising clients on how to tackle legal issues related to the global pandemic, such as employment guidelines and government assistant programs.

courthouses closed, our firm’s business remained at a surprisingly high level.” Peterman said he does a lot of municipal bond work, and in that particular area, “We’re really busy because interest rates are low and everyone wants to refinance everything.” Shannon Egan, president of the Northern Kentucky Bar Association (NKBA) and an attorney in Dinsmore’s Cincinnati office, said the pandemic has “… made this a very difficult year for the NKBA … .” “The pandemic had an immediate impact on our (bar association) operations. We quickly embraced video conferencing in an effort to keep our members connected and to continue providing CLEs (continuing legal education sessions). We moved our board and committee meetings to BY GREG PAETH laying off, furloughing or terminating video conferencing. We provided … employees, and the benefits affected timely and thorough updates explaining HILE the pandemic has employees were entitled to as a result. ever-changing court operations as the slowed down or shuttered “We have assisted numerous clients in pandemic progressed,” Egan said. Wmany businesses in Kentucky developing written policies to comply with There’s nothing all that unusual about for at least a short period of time, many that legislation and also helped clients with the fact that Egan practices in both attorneys in Northern Kentucky are developing protocols for maintaining a safe Kentucky and Ohio, she said. The region busier than ever, fielding questions work environment and attempting to limit has 2,471 attorneys, including those in about rules, regulations, guidelines and exposure to potential claims by employees, Hamilton County, Ohio, where Cincinnati government programs that seem to be clients and customers who contract is located. The NKBA has 884 attorney slightly more complicated than quantum COVID-19,” Guenther said. and judge members. Of its membership, physics. To complicate things further, “From a legal standpoint, I believe we 262 have a home office in Hamilton clients want and often need answers have seen just a tip of the iceberg in terms County, Egan said. today rather than tomorrow. of claims and litigation arising from the At DBL Law, which has offices in Based on what a representative group pandemic. Future impacts will likely include Crestview Hills, Cincinnati and Louisville, of Northern Kentucky attorneys had to increased bankruptcies and foreclosures as Managing Partner Bob Hoffer acknowledged say, COVID-19 has kept them far busier well as tort claims asserted by employees, that the pandemic has created some than expected at a time when much of clients, customers, and patrons who business opportunities for his firm. the economy was on hold. contract COVID-19,” he added. Scott Guenther, managing partner of Roger Peterman, an attorney in the Adams, Stepner, Woltermann and Dusing Covington office of Dinsmore & Shohl, in downtown Covington, a firm with a said his firm has fielded numerous history that dates back more than 100 questions that revolve around the central years, said many clients have been calling theme of “What do I need to be worried about pandemic-related issues. about?” regarding COVID-19. “During the business shutdown, the “As a firm, we haven’t missed a beat. bulk of the questions my firm received There still seems to be a very high level from clients were related to how to of business activity occurring and there’s navigate the newly enacted Families First legal advice that’s needed for that,” Coronavirus Response Act,” Guenther said Peterman, whose firm was born pJUSTICE CENTER District and circuit court said. “More specifically, our clients had in Cincinnati in 1908 and today has proceedings are conducted in the Boone County questions related to best practices for 650 attorneys in 26 cities. “Even with Justice Center in Burlington, Ky.

48 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com uNEW HQ DBL Law is transforming the historic Monarch Building in Covington into its new, 34,000-s.f. headquarters. The $11.3 million project is expected to be completed in fall 2021.

“There have been a lot of questions from clients and prospective clients about the PPP (Payroll Protection Program) loan forgiveness – the pros and cons of it,” said Hoffer, whose firm has 105 employees, including 75 in its Northern Kentucky office. (DBL is renovating the historic Monarch Building in downtown Covington and plans to move its headquarters there in the fall of 2021. See sidebar.) $11.3 million Monarch Building rehab to create “(There were) a lot of employment new home for DBL Law in Covington questions – going the gamut from ‘Do we have to let people off if they’re BY DAN HASSERT not comfortable coming in?’ to unemployment questions, family medical ITH a ferocious bite from an excavator’s “claw,” DBL Law Managing Partner Bob leave,” Hoffer said. “The employment Hoffer ripped off part of a concrete block and brick wall in September, officially breaking ground on the $11.3 million project that will transform the historic section (of the firm) was really busy for W Monarch Building in Covington into the new home of Northern Kentucky’s largest law firm. about a three-month period because of In a semiprivate but livestreamed ceremony outside the complex on East Fourth Street, COVID-19. I expect that to happen again Covington officials joined the law firm, developer Allen Haehnle and Fedders Construction in the next several months once more to kick off the project. DBL Law, currently located in Crestview Hills, expects to move 70 to federal legislation is enacted. I think it’s 80 employees to its new headquarters in fall 2021. going to create a whole new set of issues Covington Mayor Joe Meyer said the impact of seeing “one of Northern Kentucky’s quintessential law firms” return to the city resonated beyond the confines of the long-vacant for employers.” building. Clients are facing an incredible “If you consider that the vibrancy of urban areas, like that of civilizations, is not static range of challenges stemming from the but rather ebbs and flows, the return of DBL Law is clear evidence that Covington is on its outbreak of COVID-19, said Branden ascension,” Meyer said. “The investment, the jobs, the activation of a vacant building, and the Gross, managing partner in the Lexington infusion of intellect accelerates the city’s momentum in a big way.” office of Dentons Bingham Greenbaum, The project will renovate a historic building that has sat vacant for over 20 years. The site which works with Northern Kentucky is best known as the former site of the Monarch Tool Co., and historic preservationists say it is notable as an example of the Beaux Arts style. clients through its office in Cincinnati. As designed by PCA Architecture, the construction work will turn the Monarch Building “For example, they are seeking our into 34,000-s.f. of class A office space. guidance in identifying and securing The project includes two additional floors, an unobstructed view of the iconic John A. funding to maintain operations, Roebling Suspension Bridge into downtown Cincinnati, an atrium-like area that will provide understanding the various relief an abundance of natural light, and approximately 30 on-premises parking spots. Also, a new packages Congress has implemented building will be constructed just to the west of the existing building. Hoffer said the move will reconnect DBL Law, which began in Covington more than 60 and how those impact their business years ago, with its past. and employees,” Gross said. “Our clients have also needed to tackle contract issues, employee health, and many other said Gregory S. Shumate, office member Biden administration may not operate workplace issues unique to the pandemic. in charge for the Florence office of Frost like the Donald Trump White House. We’ve worked to advise our clients on the Brown Todd, which was founded in “I expect that the new administration best course of action for their employees Cincinnati in 1919 and has 525 attorneys will make many policy and departmental and clients while keeping a keen eye on in 14 markets. changes that will impact our clients. The the general financial resilience.” “There will be litigation, especially balance of power shakes out according to Early in 2020, Bingham Greenbaum business interruption claims,” Shumate said. the changes at the top, so we shall see,” Doll, which had a high profile in Kentucky, With a new president in the White Smith said in late 2020. Smith is Northern was merged into Dentons, an international House, Shumate expects businesses to Kentucky market leader and general firm that is described as the largest in have questions about adapting to new counsel for the firm and the immediate past the world with about 190 offices in 77 policies, he said. president of the Kentucky Bar Association. countries. It’s probably safe to say that it’s the “Every administration has different He also said it is a “safe bet” that only law firm that has offices in Cincinnati, priorities and ways to execute them. It’s is the pandemic will spawn lawsuits, so Lexington, Louisville and Port Moresby in not unusual to have to adapt each time a attorneys everywhere are preparing, Papua New Guinea. new political leader takes over,” Shumate including those at Graydon, a 150- Clients seem most concerned about said. year old firm that has five offices, three how they can maintain their businesses J. Stephen Smith in the Fort Mitchell in Ohio and one each in Indiana and without violating COVID-19 regulations, office of Graydon agreed that the Joe Kentucky. l lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 49 MADE IN NKY Making their mark NKY manufacturers produce variety of well-known products, employ thousands

tCRAFTED IN COVINGTON Donna Salyers stands amid an assortment of faux furs while holding an award the from the NKY Chamber of Commerce that recognized her longtime service to the community. Salyers started Donna’s Fabulous Furs from her home over 30 years ago. Today, it is a $16 million dollar company that employs nearly 90 people.

turning and milling machines that use its trademarked iSmart Factory system, which utilizes state-of-the-art automation, plantwide connectivity, free-flow data sharing and a fully optimized production flow to enhance service and efficiency. Mazak’s three-building campus, which has 536,000 s.f. of manufacturing capacity, is the hub for eight technology

Lorie Hailey photo centers, five technical centers and dozens of distributors across North America. “Continuously investing in manufacturing technology allows the Kentucky Mazak iSMART Factory to be the most advanced and efficient in the BY LORIE HAILEY fashion magazines, as well as television industry, providing high-quality and shows, movies and Broadway theaters. reliable products through its ‘production- PURRED by the idea that fashion Among the highlights: In 2017, the on-demand’ practice,” the company said. didn’t need to come at the cost actress playing Carole King in “Beautiful As part of a $15 million investment, Sof cruelty to animals, Covington – The Carole King Musical!” wore a Mazak in July 2020 opened its newly resident Donna Salyers created a faux fur Fabulous Furs parka; actress and singer expanded Spindle Rebuild Department. coat sewing kit over 30 years ago and Jennifer Hudson wore a Fabulous Furs In its manufacturing plant, Mazak soon became known around the world piece on the cover of O Magazine, as has installed a new state-of-the-art as a fashion trendsetter. Today, Donna’s Editorial Director Oprah Winfrey herself; manufacturing cell with a fully automated Fabulous Furs is a $16 million dollar and characters on the television shows storage and retrieval system, six of the company that employs nearly 90 people “Empire,” “Hot in Cleveland,” “The company’s most advanced machine tools and is the go-to luxury fur alternative. Mysteries of Laura,” and more have worn and several of its Mazak digital process Salyers’ company has outgrown its Fabulous Furs. workspace six times since it began. The luxurious faux fur coats and KENTUCKY EMPLOYERS’ MUTUAL INSURANCE (KEMI) Today, its headquarters is located in the accessories are among many notable 250 W. Main St., Suite 900, former Wadsworth Electric building products made in Northern Kentucky. Lexington, KY 40507-1724 in downtown Covington, a multi-level With a strong machine tool history and a (859) 425-7800 historic building where employees unique geographic advantage, the region kemi.com design, market and stitch together fashion has become a hub for modern advanced Kentucky Employers’ pieces from a vast collection of fur styles manufacturing facilities that serve many Mutual Insurance (KEMI) and colors. industries and create a variety of products: is the largest provider of On the first floor, Salyers and her precision aircraft and automotive parts, workers’ compensation team have set up a video recording playing cards, safety identification tags and insurance in Kentucky, studio to debut new products on home bracelets, Airheads candy, rifles, Keebler providing coverage Jon Stewart, shopping channels and other media cookies, cocktail sausages, L’Oreal hair care to more than 20,000 President/CEO policyholders in all 120 outlets, a change necessary because of the products, bourbon and other spirits, and counties of the state. The company provides COVID-19 pandemic. And because many much more. exceptional underwriting, safety education of her products are purchased online, NKY is even home to a company that and claims services to its policyholders. the Fabulous Furs HQ also has an entire designs and manufactures the advanced This, combined with competitive pricing, warehouse and shipping department manufacturing machine tools that are responsible financial management and a focus dedicated to getting ordered items in the used by manufacturers across the globe. on innovation, makes KEMI the provider of choice for Kentucky businesses. KEMI has mail as soon as possible. At its North American headquarters earned and maintained an “excellent” rating Donna’s Fabulous Furs has been in Florence, Mazak produces a wide by A.M. Best. featured in numerous newspapers and range of multitasking machines, 5-axis,

50 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com uAIRHEADS ANYONE? Candymaker Perfetti Van Melle manufactures Airheads candy and other confections at its plant in Erlanger. The manufacturer received a NKY Community Award from the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce in late 2020 for its dedication to the community. Despite the uncertainties caused by the pandemic this year, Perfetti Van Melle added 90 new jobs and donated candy to emergency first responders and nonprofit organizations.

monitoring solutions. The upgrades to the production facility, which has been expanded nearly 20 times since it opened turnkey chemical contract manufacturing, Inc. plant in Hebron, which manufactures in 1974, allow the company to satisfy warehousing and fulfillment services. The fresh and frozen bread products. growing customer demand and provide expansion increased Camco’s capacity Here is a sampling of manufacturers in the shortest possible turnaround times, of its liquid blending and bottling the tri-county area: according to a company press release. operations. Camco also opened a new 100,000-s.f. warehouse in Florence in A.O. Smith Co. New facility and expansion July 2020, opening up more space at Water heaters, boilers and storage tanks activity continue its existing manufacturing facility that Florence Eleven advanced manufacturing projects will result in additional capacity and Active Radiator Truck and industrial radiators invested more than $117 million and capabilities in the long term. Dayton Camco also helped manufacture and brought 577 new jobs to Northern Anderson Manufacturing Kentucky in 2020, according to data provide personal protective equipment AR-15 Rifles from Northern Kentucky Tri-County to the region’s health care and emergency Hebron Economic Development Corp. (NKY Tri- workers at the beginning of the pandemic. Aquionics Inc. ED), the region’s economic development Boone, Campbell and Kenton counties UV, water, air and surface purification systems company. are home to well over 400 manufacturers Erlanger Through its business retention and of all sizes, according to 2020 planning AquiSense Technologies LED devices expansion outreach program, Tri-ED worked data from the Kentucky Cabinet for Erlanger with Bonfiglioli North America to support Economic Development (KCED). ATech Training the company’s decision to nearly double its Production work accounts for nearly 15% Automotive technology training devices operations with a $5.2 million investment of jobs in Boone County. Walton and add 75 jobs in unincorporated Boone NKY is home to more than 40 Balluff County, the company’s North American companies that make auto parts Industrial networking, object detection headquarters. Bonfiglioli opened its 75,000- components and engines, as well as those Florence s.f. manufacturing space expansion in that specialize in advanced automation; Beam Dental Smart toothbrushes March 2020. chemicals, plastics and composites; and Erlanger In February 2020, Camco Chemical distribution. The region’s major auto Beckman Coulter Co. completed an expansion of its facility manufacturing employers include Mubea, Diagnostic tests/equipment in Independence. Camco is a supply where 1,017 employees make tailored Florence chain services company providing rolled blanks and precision springs; and Beverly International Nutrition Robert Bosch Automotive Steering, where Sports nutrition manufacturer 1,200 employees make steering gears and Cold Spring columns. Blue Grass Quality Meats Deli meats In the past five years, KCED Erlanger announced more than 75 manufacturing Bonfiglioli USA facility locations and expansions, a Speed changer, industrial high-speed drive and gear reported capital investment of nearly manufacturing; USA headquarters $710 million and 2,385 additional Hebron jobs. Some of the biggest investments Boone County Distilling Co. Bourbon, rye and other whiskey specialties included: the 2016 expansion of airplane Independence brake disc manufacturer Messier- Braxton Brewing Bugatti USA in Walton, a $150 million Craft beer investment that created an additional Covington 84 jobs; a $73 million investment in the Camco Chemical Co. 2017 expansion of Mubea Tailor Rolled Blending, warehousing liquid, powder chemical products Blanks in Florence, creating an additional Florence 118 jobs; back-to-back expansions of Carl Zeiss Vision Optical lab the Tyson/Hillshire Brands food plant in Hebron Alexandria, where nearly $85 million was Clarion Corp. of America pGAMEDAY FAVORITE Tyson/Hillshire Farms invested in 2016 and 2017; and a $40 in Alexandria manufactures cocktail sausages, Car audio, multimedia products including Lit’l Smokies. million investment in a new Whitehall Walton lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 51 MADE IN NKY uHONING THEIR CRAFT Safran Landing Systems New Riff Distilling was founded in Carbon brakes for airplanes 2014 and crafts a range of whiskeys: Walton bourbon, rye, malted rye and Schwan’s Global Supply Chain Kentucky wild gin. The Newport Frozen pizzas attraction offers immersion in the Florence bourbon experience with their Sherwood Midwest distillery and warehouse tours. Bedding, mattresses Walton

Club Chef Skilcraft HDT Global Meyer Tool Processors of fresh-cut produce Surgical products, surgical device Military air conditioning, heaters, Precision aircraft parts production, contract medical devices Covington decontamination units Erlanger Burlington Crescent Paper Tube Co. Florence Mila International Paper tubes, paperboard products, cores, SpecTape Inc. Hennegan Co. Surgical devices for pets caps Pressure-sensitive tape Offset printing Florence Florence Erlanger Florence Mubea Dixie Dew Products Co. Sterling Ventures Hydra-Tone Chemicals Lightweight construction specialist Ice cream toppings Limestone mine, crushed stone Specialty chemicals, detergents, lubricants providing heavy-duty spring components Erlanger Verona Hebron Florence DURO Bag, a Novolex Brand Stewart Iron Works International Mold Steel Mubea Precision Springs Paper bags for fast food Ornamental iron fencing and gates Steel for plastic and rubber molds Transmission springs and hose clamps Walton Erlanger Florence Florence Emerson’s Bakery Studio Vertu International Paper National Band & Tag Co. Baked goods Italian marble products Printing plant, packaging materials Poultry leg and wing bands, bands used Florence Newport Walton for wildlife, ID tags Ethos Labs TeeSpring Iofina Chemical Newport Drug tests Custom tee shirts Select halogen specialty chemicals, iodine New Riff Distilling Newport Hebron Covington Craft distillery Fabritec International Total Display Solutions Jack’s Glass Newport Professional dry cleaning detergents, LCD panels for computer video displays Home and auto glass solutions Newly Weds Foods wet cleaning soap, spotting chemicals and television LCD panes Elsmere Cracker and bread crumbs, batter mixes Florence Erlanger Jewel-Craft Erlanger Flint Group Toyota Boshoku America Jewelry Nor-Com Printing inks Automotive interior systems Erlanger Communications systems Erlanger Erlanger and A/V integrator J-Fab Tressa Fortress Interlocks Florence Hebron Safety access and control systems Professional hair products Johnson Controls – Power North American Stainless L.P. Erlanger Erlanger Steel Solutions Trophy Awards Manufacturing Fuji Autotech USA Lead acid batteries Ghent Automotive seat components Awards, trophies, plaques, gifts, Florence Novolex promotional items Walton Kellogg Snacks Paper products Wilder GES Keebler products Florence Trade show exhibits, store fixtures Tyson/Hillshire Brands Florence Pepsico Lunch meat, hot dogs, smoked sausages Hebron Kona Ice Snacks, foods and beverages Alexandria Givaudan Flavors Premium tropical shaved ice Erlanger Fragrance and flavor United Dairy Farmers Florence Perfetti van Melle Ice cream Florence Airheads candy Lingo Manufacturing Co. US Playing Card Co. Glier’s Meats Custom point-of-purchase displays Erlanger German breakfast sausage Playing cards Florence P L Marketing Erlanger Covington Kroger corporate branding products Linkology ViaCord GorillaMaker Security systems for parking garages Newport 3D Printing Umbilical cord preservation Newport PG LifeLink Florence Hebron L’Oreal USA-Florence Isolated power systems Graham Packaging The Waddington Group Manufacturing Erlanger Plastic bottles Plastic, disposable cups, plates, cutlery Hair care products Purestream Florence Covington Florence Sewage treatment equipment Grandpa Brands Co. White Castle Distributing LSI Walton Personal care products Burger processing Menu boards R & R Design & Manufacturing Erlanger Covington Florence Conveyor & automation systems Greif Wild Flavors Lyons Magnus Florence Rigid industrial packaging, steel drums Flavor technology Flavorings and juices Road ID Florence Erlanger Walton Road ID Bracelets Griffin Industries Wolf Steel USA Mazak Corp. Fort Mitchell Animal rendering services High-end fireplaces, grills, HVAC CNC turning centers, vertical machining Robert Bosch Automotive Cold Spring Crittenden centers, horizontal machining centers, Steering columns Zenith Motors Hahn Automation multitasking machines, 5-axis machines Florence Industrial equipment and technology Electric shuttle and cargo vans Florence Ronan Engineering Co. Hebron Wilder Meggitt Polymers & Measuring equipment, radiation gauges ZF Boge Elastmetall Halperns’ Steak & Seafood and measuring instruments Composites Transmissions, steering systems, axles Cutting and grinding of beef, chicken, Composite engine and aerostructure Florence Hebron l seafood components Walton Erlanger

52 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com While they are caring for you, we are caring for them.

When a global pandemic ushered in a wave of fear and uncertainty, healthcare workers courageously stepped forward to educate, lead, and serve our communities in an eort to save lives and reduce the spread of COVID-19.

While these heroes continue working hard to protect and care for us, KEMI is committed to doing the same for them by providing important safety resources and extending workers’ compensation insurance benefits to policyholders on the front lines.

We will get through this together, and KEMI is here to help. Learn more at kemi.com/COVID-19. HEADQUARTERS A perfect balance for business Hundreds of companies enjoy business-friendly climate, unbeatable quality of life in NKY

UNDREDS of businesses Southern Financial Group (#401); and pU.S. HEADQUARTERS Mazak’s three- have found a home for their Cintas (#441). building campus in Florence, which has 536,000 headquarters in Northern Several other big-name companies s.f. of manufacturing capacity, is the hub for eight H technology centers, five technical centers and Kentucky, where there’s a competitive are located in the region. In Cincinnati: dozens of distributors across North America. business climate, ample infrastructure First Financial Bank, serving southwest and deep talent pools to support their Ohio, NKY and Indiana; Belcan, an industries. engineering, supply chain, technical The region is home to a skilled and recruiting and information technology foods and beverages; Southern Air, educated young workforce, thanks to services company; Omnicare, a a cargo carrier for DHL Aviation; an array of public and private academic pharmaceutical company; Rumpke, one and more. centers and a community focused on of the nation’s largest waste and recycling Some of the businesses headquartered workforce development. Partnerships firms; Grippo’s snack food company; GE in the NKY/Greater Cincinnati region like the Growing Regional Outcomes Aviation, which produces aircraft engines; include: through Workforce (GROW NKY), a Dinsmore & Shohl, a law firm with 625 • 3z.net • Abrapower comprehensive workforce development/ attorneys in 21 cities; media company • AGI (Architectural Group International) talent strategy initiative, led by the E.W. Scripps Co.; KOI Auto Parts; United • Angstrom Technologies Northern Kentucky Chamber of Dairy Farmers, a convenience store • Applied Machine & Motion Control • Aristech Surfaces Commerce and the Northern Kentucky chain and ice cream maker; and Frisch’s • Armor USA Chapter of the Kentucky Federation for Restaurants, among others. • Ashland Global Holdings Advanced Manufacturing Education In NKY: Delta Private Jets at • Athena Hospitality Group (FAME) at Gateway Community and the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky • Atkins & Pearce • Auto Vehicle Parts Technical College, focus on filling gaps International Airport (CVG); Toyota • Balluff in workforce development by connecting Boshoku America in Erlanger; Ashland • Benda-Lutz Corp. middle and high school students to Global Holdings in Covington, formerly • Best Sanitizer modern industry, and nontraditional the parent company of Valvoline; • Bexion Pharmaceuticals • Blair Technology Group students and working adults to higher- General Cable in Highland Heights, • BlueStar wage jobs. a manufacturer of wire and cable • Blum-Novotest Six Fortune 500 companies are products; United States Playing Card Co. • Bob Sumerel Tire Co. headquartered in Cincinnati: Kroger in Erlanger, the world’s largest and most • BOGE Rubber & Plastics USA • Bonfiglioli USA (#23); Procter & Gamble (#50), Fifth renowned playing card company; Wild • Bowlin Group Third Bancorp (#325); American Flavors in Erlanger, which produces • Car-Part.com Financial Group (#383); Western and flavors, colors and other ingredients for • Castellini Co.

54 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com uINNOVATIVE APPLICATIONS Red Hawk Technologies develops custom web and mobile applications at its headquarters in Newport. The company’s founders are Ron Dunlevy, left, and Matt Stripplehoff.

• Chas Seligman Distributing Co. • Cincinnati Ventilating Co. • Club Chef • Columbia Sussex Corp. • CompMed • Corken Steel Products Co. • Crescent Paper Tube Co. • Crosset Co. • Crowcon Detection Instruments • D M R Interactive • Darling Ingredients • Deluxe PCs • Designs Direct • Desma USA • Divisions • Dixie Chili • Donna Salyers’ Fabulous Furs • Dorning Supply Co. • Engineered Building Systems • Iofina Chemical • Precision Metal Works, Bartell Global • Ethos Laboratories • ITT Koni America • Promevo • Executive Transportation Service • Kanefusa USA Corp. • R.I.W. Ornamental Metal • F.N. Sheppard & Co. • Kentucky Naturals • Red Hawk Technologies • Fabritec International Corp. • Kona Ice • Reis Concrete Products • FEAM Maintenance/Engineering • Krauss-Maffei Corp. • Rem-Brands • Fives Machining Systems • KRC Machine Tool Services • Remke Markets • Flottweg Separation Technology • Kutterer Mauer AG • Robert Bosch Automotive Steering • Forge Lumber • LeanCor • RR Donnelley – Nielsen Plantsen Co. • Freedom Baseball Club • Linamar • RWI Transportation • Galerie • Load Banks Direct • Safran Landing Systems • Gateway Conveyor & Design • Lock Logistics • Signature Hardware • General Cable Corp. • Lohmann Technologies Corp. • Skilcraft • Gentis Solutions • M&M Mid-Valley Supply Co. • St. Elizabeth Healthcare • Greif • Maxim Crane Works • Stagnaro Distributing • Grove Transportation • Mazak Corp. • Starrag USA • Hahn Automation • Meggitt • Steinert US • Hanser Music Group • Mila International • STEP CG • HBC-radiomatic • Newforms • Stewart Iron Works Co. • HealthWarehouse.com • OMSO North America • Studio Vertu • Heinrichs USA • One Holland Group • SWECO • Holland Roofing • Payroll Partners • Tente Casters • Hosea Project Movers • Penske Logistics • The Dream Junction Ink • I. B. Goodman Manufacturing Co. • Perfetti Van Melle USA • The Think Shop • ICON Marketing Communications • Plymouth Steel Corp. • The United States Playing Card Co. • Indelac Controls • Pomeroy • TiER 1 Performance Solutions • Insight Automation • Post Glover Resistors • TKOR Holdings • Total Display Solutions • Toyota Boshoku America • Trivaco • Ulimi • Union Springs • Verst Group Logistics • Vivitec • VonLehman & Co. • Waltz Business Solutions • Welding Alloys USA • Westside Pallet • Wild Flavors • Willis Music Co. • Wiseway Supply • ZoomEssence • Zumbiel Packaging l

Source: Northern Kentucky Tri-ED

tEXPANDING IN NKY Bonfiglioli North America has a high-tech process for manufacturing its planetary gearboxes for mobile machinery. In March 2020, the company opened its 75,000-s.f. manufacturing space expansion in Hebron, its North American headquarters. lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 55 THE GREATER GOOD Collaborative community spirit NKY nonprofits work together to help families and businesses through challenges

tFEEDING FAMILIES Dayton Mayor Ben Baker, State Rep. Rachel Roberts, D-Newport, and other volunteers helped distribute food in Dayton, Ky., to individuals and families who were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Northern Kentucky Area Development District (NKADD) organized the event through its USDA Commodities program. More than 400 families were served.

what it can look like to participate in communal philanthropy. “Traditionally, many people often felt that community foundations only partnered with individuals or families who have larger amounts of wealth,” Grayson said. “I am proud of our work to engage Northern Kentuckians at all levels, whether they are able to give $10, $100, $1,000 or more.” This innovative approach, aimed

NKADD photo to engage emerging generations and professionals, is part of a larger goal that Grayson explained as, “laying the foundation for increased community giving for years to come.” BY ALLISON ANTRAM “As a newer community foundation, With these goals in mind, even in we can respond nimbly to our a year of overwhelming need, Horizon UST as the year 2020 has brought community needs as they arise and was able to clearly see the most affected unspeakable challenges, in Northern work to ensure our community can people groups in their community and JKentucky it has also revealed an amazing rally around targeted efforts for support how to support them. depth of generosity and philanthropic spirit. … we are able to connect with donors “The pandemic has disproportionately And in a community where collaboration individually and help to leverage their impacted various groups of individuals and generosity are seemingly in its residents’ philanthropy for even greater impact. It’s and families,” Grayson said. “Our role DNA, the opportunity to be helpful was not truly a community-wide effort,” she said. as a community foundation has been going to be passed up. The benefit and success of Horizon to engage donors of all levels to help Many organizations met 2020’s trials lies in the diverse and collaborative support individuals and families who are with determination and resilience. As community Northern Kentucky has to really struggling due to the COVID-19 the pandemic began to affect the region’s offer. Horizon has worked to reinvent crisis, whether it’s due to a loss of job, residents, community groups found ways to quickly come together to lend a hand. Horizon Community Funds, along with several community partners, was one of the first organizations to establish a coronavirus Horizon photo relief fund. Launched in 2017, Horizon has worked to “create a more robust culture of philanthropy in Northern Kentucky and to provide opportunities for all members of our community to become involved in moving our region forward,” said Horizon President Nancy Grayson.

uLENDING A HAND Horizon Community Funds, along with several community partners, was one of the first organizations to establish a coronavirus relief fund. It provides flexible financial assistance to nonprofits serving Boone, Campbell, and Kenton counties that experience increased demand for resources in response to COVID-19.

56 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com health care issues, digital access to learning, or food insecurity.” NKADD keeps vital services in gear The Horizon NKY Coronavirus Relief Fund supported those most affected by LTHOUGH the COVID-19 pandemic closed NKADD offices on March 26, services the virus and the measures taken to slow have continued for the elderly, disabled and others in need throughout the agency’s its spread: residents and businesses that Aeight-county region. Calls to the Aging and Disability Resource suffered hardships because of job losses Center reached record numbers, and resource or health-related events. counselors matched those in need with a “Over 85,000 people have been variety of available programs, said Lisa Cooper, supported with items such as food, executive director. Counselors also coordinated critical life-saving medications, student meal delivery for the mass influx of seniors digital connectivity, and personal hygiene who needed food. In addition, NKADD also participated in a pilot program called Food and cleaning items,” Grayson said. Forest, an online grocery ordering phone app Horizon issued relief packages that provides free in-home grocery delivery. strategically to sustain the funds as long Food and other necessities were dropped off for as needed. As of December 2020, more caregivers who were unable to venture out for than half of the relief fund remained, shopping, Cooper said. “which will continue to be deployed Case managers delivered meals, grocery items, personal protective equipment and as the pandemic continues longer than durable medical equipment to three senior originally anticipated,” Grayson said. apartment complexes and other seniors in need throughout the community. This approach enables them to meet NKADD’s Public Administration and Community Development division provided nearly their goal of aiding those who may fall in 139,000 pounds of emergency food to families through the USDA Disaster Household “the gaps where federal and state funds Distribution Waiver, along with nearly 2 million pounds of food supplied to food pantries. might fall short.” Horizon knows it can’t The PACD division secured a $550,000 Economic Development Administration grant to meet every need, but the fund is trying provide loans to small businesses that have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. to meet the greatest needs it can. Some The Northern Kentucky Workforce Investment Board (NKWIB) is the driving force behind of these philanthropic efforts have been workforce development in the eight county region. The NKWIB oversees and funds the work of accomplished through partnerships with the local Kentucky Career Center (KCC) system and convenes 13 official partners. The NKWIB other NKY agencies. Horizon partnered connects employers with qualified job seekers for regional economic development. In FY20, 1,026 with the Northern Kentucky Chamber of unique employers worked with KCC business service representatives to get help with hiring events, Commerce and Northern Kentucky Tri- recruitment, pre-hire assessments, and workforce reductions, layoffs or closures assistance. Also through the KCC: 19,494 job seekers received basic career services in FY20. County Economic Development (Tri-ED) on the NKY Restaurant Relief Fund and with St. Elizabeth Healthcare on the St. care workers on the front lines of access,” said Lisa Cooper, executive Elizabeth Associate Crisis Support Fund. the pandemic. director of the organization. “Combined with almost $45,000 So far, Horizon and its partners NKADD also worked to address in gift card purchases from supporters have raised more than $30 million and rising unemployment. Its workforce across the region, the Restaurant Relief granted over $10 million of it back to the development team “quickly adjusted to Fund made a total economic impact of community, “which is a testament to the virtual opportunities for those seeking over $90,000, all of which went to local giving nature of our region. Our donors employment,” Cooper said. “Virtual job restaurants and bars.” and nonprofit partners are the true heroes fairs, online job searches and resume The partnership with St. Elizabeth of our work, and even during a pandemic, assistance, and zoom interviews were just provided more than $250,000 for health we have shown our ability to come together a few of the unique ways staff continued for the common good,” Grayson said. to bring together companies seeking That collaborative spirit is evident in employees and individuals seeking HORIZON COMMUNITY FUNDS OF NORTHERN KENTUCKY the missions of many NKY organizations. employment. This has resulted in over 500 50 E. RiverCenter Blvd., interviews and 200 placements since July.” Suite 431 NKADD collaborates to NKADD also assisted in pandemic Covington, KY 41011 empower communities recovery efforts. (859) 757-1552 horizonfunds.org The Northern Kentucky Area “This has been seen in assisting Development District (NKADD) is a communities in setting up virtual Horizon Community collaboration of leaders that work to meetings, applying for and accessing Funds of Northern Nancy educate and empower communities by grants and funds such as the KY CARES Kentucky is a community Grayson, implementing quality services through Act, and convening local leaders to share foundation that builds President the specific areas of expertise in aging, concerns and solutions,” Cooper said. philanthropy in Boone, Campbell and Kenton counties. It serves community development, human services In July, NKADD and the other 14 Area as a charitable concierge to its Northern and workforce development. And, similar Development Districts in Kentucky were Kentucky neighbors, whether they give to Horizon, NKADD seeks to invest awarded funds from the U.S. Economic personally, as a family, or as a business. in not only the residents of Northern Development Administration to begin Horizon’s goal is to build the resource Kentucky, but also its businesses. recovery planning efforts. NKADD was base for Northern Kentucky needs such “The NKADD USDA Commodities also awarded $500,000 from the EDA for as social services, urban revitalization, education, health and wellness, the arts program provided record amounts of loans to small businesses impacted by and more – now, and into the future. food and worked with our cities, counties the pandemic, with a focus on child care and community partners to expand services. lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 57 THE GREATER GOOD uPANDEMIC PRESCRIPTIONS Faith Community Pharmacy, a charitable pharmacy in Northern Kentucky, saw a drastic spike in clients because of the pandemic. The organization received $35,000 from the Horizon Coronavirus Relief Fund to help ensure that no one in the community was denied essential prescription medications.

“NKADD’s services are so broad and adaptable to regional needs that when someone asks me what we do, I often joke that it is easier to talk about what we don’t do,” Cooper said.

Giving at-risk individuals Horizon photo a chance to reach potential Life Learning Center has been serving desperate need to curb the trend of The breadth of Brighton’s work the Northern Kentucky community recidivism, one that has only increased in includes “family and work support; early since 2006, with an aim to provide light of COVID-19. childhood education; youth; financial programs and resources to support at- “The current picture is even more and homeownership services; workforce risk individuals and communities to help grim with the COVID-19 response that development services including them achieve their highest potential. resulted in Kenton County Detention education, employment and training It has a 60,000-s.f. facility, renovated Center reducing its population from 716 programs; substance abuse recovery in 2014, with technology-equipped to 483 inmates over a two-week period,” services for women; and neighborhood- classrooms, a theater, fitness facility, daycare, Edgington said. “These stark realities based programs including housing and a café serving three meals a day. indicate the urgent need to improve the development,” said Lauren Copeland, “LLC serves as a focal point of educational and employment outcomes of development director. resources for community-based recovery those released from incarceration.” The impact has proven notable, support, to include peer support, mutual This is a prime example of how the as “last year alone, Brighton Center aid groups, employment and skills tumult of 2020 has only magnified partnered with 46,445 individuals training,” LCC President Alecia Webb the need for help and the efforts of from infants to older adults through 41 Edgington said. “LLC is a trusted partner community organizations like LLC. different programs on their journey to in the recovery ecosystem, focused on self-sufficiency,” Copeland said. addressing barriers in five domains Brighton Center sees 300% Brighton has had to pivot its methods of life: physical, financial, spiritual, increase in families needing help during the pandemic, but that hasn’t relational and emotional. The education Similar to LLC, Brighton Centers aims limited its ability to meet growing needs. continuum is coupled with that of a care to support and equip self-sufficient The center has seen a 300% increase continuum supported by more than 138 communities through family support in the number of families accessing residential and community partners.” services, education, employment and its emergency assistance services, Additionally, LLC’s work to integrate leadership. The Brighton Center has been Copeland said. recently released inmates back into expanding this work since its humble “What remains consistent is our the community fulfills an ongoing and beginnings in a Newport storefront in 1966. commitment to the community, and partnering with families on their path to reaching their hopes and dreams,” she said. “Brighton Center has always been committed to meeting families where they are and partnering with them on their path to self-sufficiency. Part of that is listening to the needs of our customers and the community as a whole and this pandemic has provided us with another opportunity to do this,” Copeland said. “The community has really come together to be able to fill the gaps in social safety-net services to ensure families can stabilize and move forward on their path to self-sufficiency,” she said. l

tRECOVERY RESOURCES Life Learning Center provides programs and resources to support at-risk individuals and communities and help them achieve their highest potential.

58 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com ARTS & CULTURE Connecting today’s talent with the past A culture of creativity flourishes in Northern Kentucky; pandemic pause used to innovate

tLIVE MUSIC ON PAUSE Madison Theater, a beautifully restored music theater in Covington, six blocks from downtown Cincinnati, has three performance spaces. During COVID-19 closures, Madison Theater connected with music fans on its social media channels and via its iconic marquee.

Along with floodwall murals, parks and Mainstrasse Village, the Covington Creative District includes: an art center and gallery called the Artisan Enterprise Center with gallery space and periodic exhibitions; art instruction in many mediums at the Baker Hunt Arts and Cultural Center; the city’s oldest museum, Behringer Crawford Museum; and the Carnegie Center for Performing and Visual Arts. The Carnegie, located in the historic former Carnegie Library, includes The Carnegie Galleries, the Eva G. Farris Education Center and the Otto M. Budig Theatre. Kim Best, executive director of The Carnegie, said normally (pre-pandemic) four main stage productions are hosted annually as well as several one-night event performances, five or six gallery exhibitions and year-round education BY SHANNON CLINTON spearheaded by Covington-based programs. Summers bring art camps and Corporex and Los Angeles-based AEG weekends are filled with workshops and ROM murals to museums, galleries, Presents/PromoWest. other activities. festivals, tours and performance Venues like Southgate House Revival Even during a pandemic, art remains Fvenues, Northern Kentucky has will continue to host smaller, alternative an important facet of life, Best said. increasingly become a place known for acts while the new concert facility can “We are still here for our community, proudly showcasing both its historical draw larger bookings, said Newport City we’re still here for the community of origins and today’s talent. Manager Tom Fromme. actors and artists and teachers, and In late September 2020, the first installment was unveiled in a “Wall of Murals” series to commemorate Newport’s 225th anniversary. The mural depicts the students and teachers of The Southgate Street School, a historic African American school. More murals are being planned. (Northern Kentucky is decorated with numerous colorful murals. A walking tour map can be found on the ArtWorks Cincinnati website.) Also in Newport: The riverfront has a new $40 million concert venue set to open in 2021. The concert space is Phase 1 of a 20-acre development, Ovation,

uFAMILY FRIENDLY Behringer-Crawford Museum at Devou Park in Covington celebrates the unique arts, heritage and culture of Northern Kentucky.

lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 59 ARTS & CULTURE

tLIFE ON THE ARK Located in Williamstown, the Ark Encounter features a full-size replica of Noah’s Ark. Exhibits inside the ark – spanning 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet high — tell the biblical story of Noah and his family. Since its opening in 2016, the Ark Encounter has hosted as many as 9,000 guests in a single day.

their respective communities, the campus hosts many quality performances annually. “With a mainstage production season unrivaled in the region, we inspire thousands of patrons with musicals, independent playwright festivals, thought-provoking productions, and even opera,” he said. “With over 100 plays, concerts and exhibitions each year logging over 30,000 patron visits Ark Encounter photo annually, SOTA’s students and faculty inspire the region while developing future artists, performers, and musicians.” For additional arts-related activities and events, each Thursday the city of Covington promotes fun weekend pursuits wanting to make sure that rather than David Jeremiah and others; and of course, through its online calendar “Weekend in hibernate, we are trying to innovate the Ark Encounter itself. LovetheCov, ” which can be found on the during this time that nobody could’ve Ray Flynn, president of event city’s website, covingtonky.gov. imagined,” she said. organizer Abraham Productions Inc., said The events range “from parking- After spring 2020 events were he expects more than 120,000 attendees, lot badminton tournaments to poetry canceled, the Carnegie virtually which he said will positively impact the readings to tree plantings to pop-up art re-emerged with online art exhibitions, local economy and perhaps broaden festivals to competitions that combine virtual “Camp Carnegie,” and more people’s faith. running around the block and chugging recently, small concerts and free movie If you’re not sure which art destination local craft beer,” said Dan Hassert, nights with smaller capacities. Galleries to visit, choose one of many free, self- Covington’s communications manager. were reopened, educational classes were guided NKY Art Tours, a Covington- Other activities include drive-in indie held both online and in-person with based initiative of the Public Arts film showings, nighttime nature walks new safety protocols, and some theatrical Network of NKY and ArtsWave. and outdoor yoga. productions relocated outside. Tour themes include the Riverside In 2020, “outdoor cafes” were created At the Behringer-Crawford Museum, Drive Statue Tour, Central Business in a cooperative effort between city halls Executive Director Laurie Risch said the District Tour and Secret Cincinnati Tour, and restaurants to keep customers dining facility typically serves about 35,000 with more being added for 2021, said Jill out in the great outdoors. annually both in-house and through Morenz, spokesperson for the Public Arts “What this demonstrates is that a outreach programs. The pandemic prompted Network of NKY. The group maintains city known for its quirky personality, new adaptations, with original artwork sold an ArtQuest calendar for people to irreverence and authenticity – with online following the museum’s annual Fresh plan their own area arts adventures at many unique small businesses, bars and Art fall fundraising event. The summer nkypublicarts.org/artquest. restaurants – will find ways to have fun, concert series was pared down to two live As for the tours, “There are interactive even during a pandemic,” Hassert said. performances before a limited audience and maps for each tour via Google Maps between live streams and recorded views, that folks can easily use on the go to VENUES TO VISIT one reached 24,000 viewers. navigate between points of interest,” she American Sign Museum “That was pretty incredible,” she said. said. “We also have a printable scavenger Cincinnati The museum reopened with extra hunt for the floodwall murals, with more Artisan Enterprise Center safety measures in mid-July 2020, and scavenger hunts to come.” Covington programs and classes remain a mix of In addition to performances at ArtWorks in-person and virtual, elements Risch BB&T Arena, NKU’s five-story Fine Arts Cincinnati expects to continue in 2021. Center is also a cultural draw, containing Baker Hunt Arts & Cultural Center In Williamstown, the Ark Encounter visual art, theater, music and dance Covington site will be hosting what’s touted as the departments; art studios and galleries; the Behringer-Crawford Museum Covington world’s largest Christian music festival Rosemary Stauss Theatre; NKU Corbett Campbell County Log Cabin Museum Aug. 2 through Sept. 10, 2021. “40 days Theatre; and the 637-seat Greaves Alexandria and 40 nights of Gospel Music at the Ark” Concert Hall. The Carnegie will feature 120 concerts, an art exhibit, Matthew Albritton, director of NKU’s Covington zoo animals, zip lines, camel rides, School of the Arts (SOTA), said not only do Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal inspirational messages from Jerry Vines, SOTA graduates go forth to artistically enrich Cincinnati

60 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com Cincinnati Art Museum Cincinnati NKY artists’ resiliency on display during COVID-19 Creation Museum Petersburg ORT Mitchell resident Bridget Schneider and her sister-in-law launched a “paint bar” Dinsmore Homestead business in Covington to display, sell and help others create artwork. That endeavor Burlington Funfortunately became a COVID-19 casualty, and the business partners had to close their Fine Arts Center doors. But in her newfound free time, Schneider, a self-described lifelong creative type, kept Highland Heights busy painting and selling her work. James A. Ramage Civil War Museum “For me, social media has been huge,” she said. “I’ve sold more Fort Wright paintings this year than I have ever.” National Underground Railroad Ultimately, the former business space was leased to Creative Freedom Center House of Art and Design, but Schneider was offered – and Cincinnati happily accepted – a position there. Railway Museum of Greater Cincinnati Hers is but one example of the resiliency Covington local artists have displayed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Taft Museum of Art Cincinnati Illustrator/fine artist and Dayton, Ky., resident Stephen Wheeler hails Vent Haven Museum from a family of professional artists Fort Mitchell and followed suit, graduating from Frank Duveneck Arts & Cultural Center NKU with the tools to make his own Covington mark on the artistic world. The Footlighters Inc. He typically sells at fine art fairs throughout the Newport Midwest, but all but one of his 15 booked events were Falcon Theatre canceled because of COVID-19. So he pivoted toward Newport more commission work, selling his services through social media, a professional website and Kincaid Regional Theatre strong word-of-mouth networking. Falmouth “It’s been a master class for me in adaptation,” he said. Wheeler said Northern Kentucky is a great place for creatives to thrive, connect and seize Madison Theater Covington opportunities. “This is a vibrant art community,” he said. “There are a lot of extremely talented artists BB&T Arena at NKU in the Cincinnati area but there are also a lot of exceptional venues and art shows and art Highland Heights resources, having two or three museums in town. That means a lot to an artist, too.” Kentucky Symphony Orchestra — Shannon Clinton Newport l

southern spirit lives here

Feel it.

Covington, Ky.

meet NKY.com TOURISM & ATTRACTIONS Rolling on the river NKY tourist attractions adapt to safety measures, offer lively distraction from pandemic fatigue Phot courtesy of Newport on the Levee

BY SHANNON CLINTON the industry supported more than 80,000 pA NEW VIEW While redevelopment jobs and created 26.6 million visitor construction plans at entertainment complex Newport on the Levee were slowed by the HILE busy creatively adapting connections, $5.3 billion in spending and pandemic, the owners created Bridgeview Box to a post-COVID 19 reality $1.2 billion in tax revenue. Park, a vibrant container park featuring eight local Win 2020, Northern Kentucky Though the pandemic took a toll restaurants and retailers along the river. With the tourism destinations continued to draw in on the hospitality/tourism industries new space, baseball fans were able to practice visitors while planning for a brighter 2021. in 2020, MeetNKY President Julie social distancing while watching the Cincinnati Reds play from across the river. A regional tourism economic impact Kirkpatrick predicts that as the pandemic study conducted in 2018 revealed that wanes, “You’re going to start to see the New Riff photo return of some of the great events in this region,” like the Glier’s Goettafest, annual Newport Italianfest, Rides on celebrating the area’s favorite German- Monmouth Car Show and Oktoberfest. inspired sausage called goetta. The free Still, other attractions were open with event was expanded to eight days but new safety measures once state mandates postponed for 2020. allowed. Likewise, Taste of Cincinnati was Newport on the Levee, a dining, postponed twice and Taste of Newport’s shopping and entertainment venue, June event was canceled, as was the 29th welcomed guests with new distancing and enhanced cleaning measures, among other precautions. Free signature events were held tBOURBON BAR New Riff Distilling is a family- last fall through December, including owned whiskey distillery that says it is “putting a yoga, live music and trivia nights. The new riff on an old tradition: Kentucky bourbon.” At the Aquifier Tasting Bar, located inside the distillery, mixed-use development was purchased guests can enjoy cocktails, samples, flights and in 2018 and is being renovated and pours of its award-winning spirits. re-imagined.

62 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com In November, an 11,000-s.f., temporary artisan market was unveiled at the levee. Other new developments include the open-air Bridgeview Box Park, featuring retail shops, takeout food, a tiki bar, wine bar and Second Sights Spirits. The Newport Aquarium, also at the levee, has been open with new safety protocols, though some exhibits, activities and animal attractions remained unavailable. New in 2020 was the exhibit “Shipwreck Realm of the Eels.” In Williamstown, Ark Encounter and its accompanying zipline, playground, restaurant and zoo offered free admission to kids 10 and younger in 2020. The Creation Museum, which includes a zoo, planetarium, special-effects theater and zip lines, reopened its Petersburg facility and reduced its visitor capacity. It also employed enhanced safety and cleaning measures. In Covington, another open-air box yard opened in September called Covington Yard, offering food vendors and a large variety of beer and cocktails. In addition to the box yard presence pSEA AND EXPLORE The Newport Aquarium It’s dog friendly, too, and has outdoor TVs in Newport, tours in Ludlow continue at Newport on the Levee has thousands of animals from around the world in a million gallons of water. and occasionally, live music. Yoga is listed with limited numbers and outdoor It attracts approximately 700,000 guests annually. among its future plans. tastings, said Waggoner. The aquarium has been able to welcome guests “I think we have one of the most during the pandemic, requiring masks and using Bourbon, breweries and wineries unique tours on the craft trail at our special safety measures. Carus Waggoner and Rick Couch are location,” Waggoner said. “We built our the co-founders of Second Sight Spirits still ourselves with a bunch of repurposed in Ludlow, which produces 2-year-old parts and pretty much the whole shop a gateway to the Kentucky Bourbon straight bourbon, six types of rum, has been built through repurposed parts Trail, inviting guests to take the B-Line, hazelnut liqueur and four types of and bartering.” a 14-stop tour of the area’s distilleries, moonshine. The distillery opened in Northern Kentucky touts itself as breweries and restaurants. In addition, 2015 and uses smaller, 15-gallon barrels. “The Edge of Bourbon Country” and Covington, Bardstown and Frankfort

pLINKING THE CITIES A converted rail and motor vehicle structure, the popular Purple People Bridge offers spectacular pedestrian connectivity across the Ohio River between Newport and downtown Cincinnati. It is 2,670 feet long. uLUXURY LODGING Hotel Covington is a $22 million hotel located inside a historic downtown building that once housed the iconic 1910 Coppin’s Department Store. Owners of the 114-room hotel preserved many of the building’s original features, such as its high ceilings and oversized display windows. lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 63 TOURISM & ATTRACTIONS

tA FLOOD OF VISITORS Noah’s Ark at the Ark Encounter attracts thousands of visitors annually to Williamstown. The Ark Encounter showcases the biblical narrative of the great flood in Genesis by displaying a life-sized replica of Noah’s Ark that spans 510 feet long, 85 feet wide and 51 feet high and also features outdoor attractions like zip lines, restaurants and a zoo.

qKANGAROO TOO Animals from around the world live at the Ark Encounter’s Ararat Ridge Zoo and petting zoo.

have joined forces in the marketing Hunt said hotels have been one of push called “Come Find Bourbon.” And the biggest growth sectors in Florence, another “Select Six” – BB Riverboats, with eight new hotels in the last three NEAT Bourbon Bar, Rich’s Proper, Union years, three more pending and a fourth 42 Bourbon & Brew, Midway Café and possible. Currently the city has 29 Mainstrasse Village Pub – conducted hotels with 2,589 rooms. He said the special barrel picks in 2020 to drum up investors and developers he speaks excitement for Kentucky’s native spirit. with are optimistic and haven’t slowed With free admission, the Bacon, Bourbon down plans. and Brew Festival is held each (non- “Our market is really good for hotels,” of retail space, 27,000 s.f. of office space pandemic) year in Newport, and is already he said, citing the area’s proximity to major and an urban bourbon distillery. set for July 8 at Riverboat Road in 2021. interstates, low-cost air flights and growth Retail is faring well in Florence, too, The Sprouts & Stouts Festival in in business travel at Cincinnati/Northern Hunt said, with no big box vacancies. The Covington was canceled in 2020, but Kentucky International Airport in recent Florence Mall has Aeropostale, American organizers are looking ahead to 2021 years. Eagle, Build-a-Bear and a wealth of dining with its traditional plant fair that will The Aloft Newport on the Levee options, and Duluth Trading Co. recently feature live music and beer from local hotel is located near Newport’s popular opened a new location on Meijer Drive. breweries Rhinegeist (Cincinnati) and entertainment district, and also nearby To help local retailers weather the Wooden Cask (Newport). is the Hampton Inn & Suites Newport/ pandemic, MeetNKY compiled an The Northern Kentucky Back Roads Cincinnati and the Holiday Inn extensive list of local establishments Wine Trail features six local wineries Cincinnati Riverfront in Covington’s where gift cards and gifts could be including Stonebrook, Baker-Bird, Seven MainStrasse Village. purchased during the holiday season Wells, Atwood Hill and Redmans Farm In early 2020, it was announced that and beyond. MeetNKY also promoted Winery and Camp Springs Vineyard. the 114-room Hotel Covington would local businesses on their social media Craft Connection Northern Kentucky undergo additions to bring 12,000 s.f. channels. offers a variety of local brewery stops, Photo courtesy of Glier’s Goettafest visiting several breweries in three to four hours.

Hotels, dining and retail Joshua Hunt, director of business development in Florence, said racing fans can look forward to continued changes at the old Turfway racetrack, purchased by Churchill Downs in 2019. Plans are to build a new $150 million gaming and racing facility there. “With that is a brand new track, which has already been completed,” he said. uRIVERFRONT REVELRY Glier’s Goettafest at Newport on the Levee attracts thousands of goetta lovers to the riverfront each year. The NKY waterfront, also known as the Southbank, plays hosts to dozens of festivals each year, partly because of the easy pedestrian access for residents on both sides of the river.

64 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com MEETNKY | NORTHERN KENTUCKY CVB 50 E. RiverCenter Blvd. Suite 200 Covington, KY 41011 (859) 261-4677 meetNKY.com

For more than 40 years, meetNKY | Northern Kentucky CVB has served Julie as Northern Kentucky’s Kirkpatrick, President destination management and CEO and marketing organization, positively impacting the three-county region’s economy through meeting, convention and visitor expenditures. MeetNKY also manages marketing and operations of The B-Line, NKY’s bourbon experience. The tourism industry in NKY is a vibrant part of the economy in the Cincinnati region that generates more than $5 billion of economic impact and supports more than 88,000 jobs. that serves drinks, flatbreads and more. pLIGHT AT NIGHT The John A. Roebling Fort Thomas is home to the hidden gem Suspension Bridge, named for the civil engineer A food lover’s dream Grassroots & Vine, a dedicated artisan who designed it, has been an iconic landmark Northern Kentucky continues to along the city skyline for nearly a century and a food market, eatery, retail bottle shop half. From the Covington riverfront, the brightly lit establish itself as a place where foodies and tasting room bar in the historic bridge and view of Cincinnati is breathtaking. can feast, with a variety of restaurants Midway District. And don’t miss out in Covington’s MainStrasse Village, on the Bircus Brewing Co., where the Newport on the Levee and historic Main surreal world of the circus meets the love Full Throttle Adrenaline Park Street areas. And, of course, there are of beer. Performers there juggle clubs, Florence the area’s famed Cincinnati-style chili breathe fire, hula hoop, walk on kegs and Great American Ball Park establishments. perform trapeze acts. Cincinnati Knotty Pine on the Bayou offers Cajun The 2021 Great Inland Seafood Kentucky Speedway fare and seafood tucked away on the Festival is scheduled for Aug. 12 on Sparta banks of the Licking River. Yonder by Riverboat Row in Newport and Taste MainStrasse Village Covington Commonwealth, a rooftop bar nestled of Newport showcases restaurants, above MainStrasse, offers an adventurous New Riff Distilling breweries, local artisans and shops. Newport small-plate menu that changes each Many restaurants across the region week. Three Spirits Tavern is a fun Newport Aquarium have created outdoor patio and sidewalk Newport neighborhood bar in the heart of Bellevue dining options to keep customers fed Newport Gangster Tour while adapting to new COVID-19 Newport mandates. MeetNKY has compiled a full Newport on the Levee list of outdoor dining options in Northern Newport Kentucky at meetnky.com. Northern Kentucky Back Roads Wine Trail A sampling of tourism attractions in Camp Springs Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati: Purple People Bridge Newport

Ark Encounter Riverbend Music Center and Coney Island Williamstown Cincinnati BB Riverboats Riverside Food Tours Newport Covington Big Bone Lick State Park Roebling Suspension Bridge and Murals Union Covington Blue Licks Battlefield State Park Sherlock Escape Rooms Carlisle Florence Braxton Brewing Company Smale Riverfront Park Covington Cincinnati Cincinnati Zoo Turfway Park Cincinnati Florence Donna Salyers’ Fabulous Furs USS Nightmare Covington Newport pAUTHENIC EXPERIENCE Hofbräuhaus Elk Creek Vineyards World of Golf Newport, located across the street from Newport Owenton Florence on the Levee, offers authentic Bavarian beverages, World Peace Bell food and entertainment. Newport l lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 65 SPORTS & RECREATION A recreational paradise Region offers many quintessentially NKY activities – from major sports to outdoor adventure

tOUTDOOR ADVENTURE Residents and visitors can explore Devou Park’s scenic trails, quiet streets and wooded hills on two wheels using the park’s bicycle rental program, Devou Cycle. A variety of styles are available for all age and skill levels.

still have plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities within reach. The Ohio River is a centerpiece for much of the activity, and recent efforts spearheaded by Southbank Partners have upped the ante on the riverfront recreation vibe. Construction of a 1,350-seat amphitheater on the Covington riverfront was nearing completion in late December 2020. It is part of the City of Covington’s portion of the Riverfront Commons project, an 11.5-mile trail that connects Northern Kentucky’s six river cities – Covington Parks and Rec Photo Ludlow, Covington, Newport Bellevue, Dayton, and Fort Thomas – to the City of Cincinnati and other local trail systems. The amphitheater project includes two hiking and biking trails of more than 2,800 feet connecting with existing trails, a cobblestone pier for paddlers and anglers, and upgraded overlooks and other amenities. It’s a $6.54 million BY ABBY LAUB The team, originally formed in 2003, project that is considered the “crown also holds amateur and youth leagues, jewel” of Riverfront Commons. ORTHERN Kentucky has creating a unique small-town baseball In June 2020, Southbank Partners everything the sports and culture. celebrated the opening of the Riverfront Nrecreation recipe calls for. Fancy And just a quick drive up the road is the Commons Pedestrian Bridge, which a solo trail bike ride? Check. Take big league cousin, Major League Baseball’s connects the Taylor-Southgate Bridge in a professional baseball game with Cincinnati Reds. The Great American to the Riverwalk level of Newport on friends? Check. The region’s rich sports Ballpark stadium is picturesquely nestled the Levee. When Riverfront Commons history has seeped into the rhythm of on the Ohio River and is an easy walk is completed, the trail will seamlessly everyday life, creating an accessible and across the bridge from Northern Kentucky, connect over the Purple People Bridge approachable athletics culture for every where sports fans can often be found to trails in Cincinnati, the Licking River type of fan. enjoying food or staying in hotels after Greenway in Northern Kentucky and The latest addition, the Florence Y’alls, the game. Sports fans in the region also Devou Park in Covington. is unapologetically Northern Kentucky. can enjoy the National Football League’s Easy pedestrian access is a key The name, which was changed during Cincinnati Bengals or Major League Soccer’s highlight of Northern Kentucky. Bike- a renaming contest from the former FC Cincinnati, which is the most recent share programs like Devou Cycle and independent league baseball team known addition to the professional sports scene in Cincinnati Red Bike offer opportunities to as Florence Freedom, pays homage to the area. traverse around the entire region without the iconic “Florence Y’all” water tower In a typical year, sports fans can also take getting into a car or public transportation. that welcomes Interstate 75 drivers to in collegiate sports, with the NCAA Division Thoroughbred horse racing fans have Northern Kentucky. I Northern Kentucky teams, and Thomas first-class entertainment in Florence at “It’s a very exciting time in our More University’s National Association of the historic Turfway Park. The property organization’s history,” said Y’alls General Intercollegiate Athletics games. There are was purchased in fall 2019 by Louisville- Manager Josh Anderson. “We have a also sporting events at the University of based Churchill Downs with sights set name that is uniquely Florence, and on a Cincinnati and Xavier University. on a nearly completed makeover that will larger scale uniquely Kentucky. We look COVID-19 restrictions put a damper cost approximately $100 million. forward to creating Y’alls culture on a on those sporting events in 2020, but Because of construction on the new nightly basis.” Northern Kentucky sports enthusiasts Turfway Park Racing & Gaming property,

66 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com spectators were not able to attend the live races in 2020 but could participate in simulcast wagering. The history behind Thoroughbred racing at Turfway Park spans three centuries. According to its website, the track’s roots reach from the first race at the original Latonia Race Course in 1883 in Latonia, Ky., 10 miles north of present-day Turfway. “We are thrilled to welcome Turfway Photo courtesy of Florence Y’alls Park to the Churchill Downs racing family,” said Kevin Flanery, retired president of Churchill Downs Race Track. “Our team is poised to restore Turfway to its former glory, anchored by Northern Kentucky’s first historical racing machine facility. The result will be a first-class racing product fueled by increased purses that keeps high-quality horses in Kentucky year-round and appeals to Kentuckians outdoors to enjoy affordable, pFLORENCE Y’ALL The Northern Kentucky horseplayers nationwide.” socially distanced entertainment. Each baseball team started off 2020 with a new name. As part of a renaming contest, the team was In October 2020, Churchill Downs location has its own set of COVID-19 renamed the Florence Y’alls, after the city’s quirky opened Newport Racing & Gaming, an safety guidelines. and iconic water tower. The team, a member of extension of the racing license associated In Union, the eclectic Jane’s Saddlebag the West Division of the Frontier League, was with Turfway Park. The facility has a is located only a few miles from Big Bone formerly called Florence Freedom. historical racing machine gaming floor, Lick State Park and features a “hands on” bar and horse racing simulcast area. historic educational experience, complete Car racing thrill seekers for the last with the old restored “Saddlebag” home, known as the Purple People Bridge). The two decades enjoyed NASCAR racing original stone smokehouse, and a life-size nearly half-mile bridge connects Newport at the Kentucky Speedway in Sparta, replica of a 1700s-style flat boat. to downtown Cincinnati and to trails Ky. Although NASCAR is not on the The Licking River Greenway and along the river in both states. Originally schedule for 2021 in Kentucky, Kentucky Trails (LRGT) is a multi-phase urban built in 1886, it plays host to a range Speedway General Manager Mark trail project through the Licking River of festivals and celebrations, including Simendinger has said the property will corridor, connecting the cities of weddings and other events. evolve into a multi-use facility, and plans Covington, Taylor Mill, Wilder and In Cincinnati, the Great Parks for the future are still in the works. Newport. When complete, the multi- of Hamilton County was created in For those who prefer to journey on purpose trail system will span nearly 1930 and today boasts 21 parks and their own two feet, the region boasts 14 miles. preserves. The largest, Miami Whitewater ample recreational opportunities, all From Newport on the Levee, visitors Forest, offers scenic trails, stand-up within close proximity to the urban core and residents can enjoy a pedestrian-only paddleboarding, golf, nature displays, and riverfront. The COVID-19 pandemic walk high above the Ohio River on the disc golf, sports fields, picnic areas, a dog forced many homebound Northern iconic Newport Southbank Bridge (better park, shelters, picnic areas and more. Thrill seekers can ride the ziplines and stroll through the tree-top canopy at EarthJoy Tree Adventures, Northern Kentucky’s first professional tree-climbing company, the Screaming Eagle Zip Lines at the Ark Encounter in Williamstown; or Screaming Raptor Zip Line and Canopy Adventure Tours at the Creation Museum in Petersburg. The Northern Kentucky riverfront and its surrounding foothills and countryside are chock full of many more opportunities to fit every season of life, COVID-19 or not. l

tNEW WAY TO PLAY Churchill Downs opened Newport Racing & Gaming in October 2020. The attraction is an extension of the racing license associated with Turfway Park. It has a historical racing machine gaming floor, bar and horse racing simulcast area. lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 67 UTILITIES Delivering the power to succeed Northern Kentucky’s electric, gas, water pipeline are ample, sustainable and affordable

tKEEPING THE LIGHTS ON Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky, provides electric service to 870,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 3,000-square-mile service area in Ohio and Kentucky, and natural gas service to 542,000 customers.

Samples from eight sites across Campbell, Boone and Kenton counties along Kentucky’s northern border are collected weekly by SD1 and sent to UofL and research collaborators at Eurofins Scientific in Louisville for virus analysis. “This is important work that will help us better understand the spread of COVID-19 Photo courtesy of Duke Energy in our communities and the public health strategies to control the spread,” said Dr. Lynne Saddler, district director of Health for NKY Health. SD1 staff collect the samples as part of their routine sampling efforts. The two major utilities, Duke Energy and Owen Electric, have invested in infrastructure improvements over the last BY ROBERT HADLEY providers work closely with the business year. In October 2020, Duke reported community to ensure needs are met and a $200,000 investment in preserving VEN the pandemic of 2020 was downtime is avoided.” Northern Kentucky and Ohio natural unable to derail the momentum the Electric rates are only part of the story. resources. ENorthern Kentucky utility industry Sanitation District No. 1 (SD1), serving “These grants provide much-needed has been building in recent years. municipalities and unincorporated support to programs and organizations For a business looking to relocate to areas in Boone, Campbell and Kenton that are protecting the natural resources Kentucky – or expand operations here counties, operates three major wastewater that our communities depend on,” said – the area offers two strong advantages treatment facilities and several smaller Amy Spiller, president of Duke Energy when it comes to utilities: competitive wastewater treatment plants. Ohio and Kentucky. “We value our business and residential electric rates, and Researchers at the University of community partners, knowing that our a record of investing in infrastructure, Louisville have been working with contribution is helping ensure these including green energy. Sanitation District No. 1 and the treasures will be enjoyed for many years Being the state’s sixth-lowest region Northern Kentucky Health Department to come.” for industrial electric rates is important to determine if testing wastewater for In Kentucky, the endowment included when it comes to recruiting business the virus that causes COVID-19 could $25,000 for three specific projects. A Forest and industry to NKY, according to provide an early warning for increasing Health Assessment Project in Boone County Northern Kentucky Tri-County Economic COVID-19 infections. received $5,000, along with a $10,000 Development Corp. (Tri-ED). “With an average industrial price of 5.11 cents per kilowatt hour, the state’s industrial electric costs are 26% lower than the national average,” Tri-ED says prominently on its website. “Northern Kentucky has all the resources in place to deliver a high level

of service for all types of users. Utility Photo courtesy of Duke Energy

uSOAK UP THE SUN Duke Energy has three solar plants in Northern Kentucky, including two at Walton in Kenton County. The Walton plants feature approximately 17,000 solar panels, generating more than 4 megawatts of electricity.

68 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com grant to Boone County Fiscal Court to raise challenging given the pandemic’s impact DUKE ENERGY awareness of natural resources. Thomas on employment and consumers’ inability OHIO/KENTUCKY More University received $10,000 to to pay their utility bills. 139 E 4th St. support water quality studies. In the Greater Cincinnati area, Duke Cincinnati, OH 45202 (800) 544-6900 Duke also underscored its Energy pledged $150,000 to support duke-energy.com commitment to renewable energy with small businesses owned by minorities, the October 2020 announcement that it is women and veterans. The Duke Duke Energy’s top priority Rhonda planning three green initiatives: hastening Foundation earmarked the monies for is its customers. The Whitaker the end of coal dependence, cutting Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber and company exists to improve Hurtt, the lives of its customers methane emissions, and increasing green the Northern Kentucky Chamber. VP, and the vitality of the Community energy output to 16 gigawatts over the Duke Energy’s Spiller said the grants communities it serves. This Relations and next five years. were in response to customer feedback. commitment is evident in Economic “We are enthusiastic about the “We’ve continued to hear from our its economic development Development prospect of scaling up our clean energy small business customers that they are program, where the mission efforts, driving economic growth in our having the hardest time trying to get is to help existing companies expand and states and growing our business as we funding to not only stay afloat, but to recruit new industry that will result in new capital investment, jobs and increased tax collaborate with stakeholders to develop keep their doors open,” Spiller said. “This base in the communities Duke Energy serves. smart energy policy and solutions for the is a way for us to have a direct impact on future,” said Lynn Good, Duke Energy a critical customer segment.” chair, president and CEO. The funds come on top of $80,000 NKWD has a strong record of Across its 3,000-square-mile service Duke donated to Greater Cincinnati area delivering water quality. Its water is area, Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky claims hospitals. tested at 155 points and meets all EPA a customer base of more 750,000 homes Duke Energy and its subsidiary, standards for drinking water, according and businesses, including over 500,000 Piedmont Natural Gas Co., announced to NKWD’s 2019 report. Sourced from natural gas users. a program at the pandemic’s beginning the Ohio and Licking rivers, the water Owen Electric serves 62,000 customers in March, to set aside $1.3 million in is monitored for microbial agents, in Owen County via 4,500 miles of electric COVID-19 assistance to “customers, detergents, industrial chemicals and line, and has also contributed to the communities and employees.” other potential hazards. Northern Kentucky community. The utility Duke’s CEO called the response NKWD has several projects under operates a one-mile nature trail on its 25- “unprecedented” – and necessary for the construction, including water main acre property in Owen County and sponsors “unprecedented crisis.” connections and water main replacements. an annual trip to Washington, D.C., for high The relief included waiving fees for The Boone County Water District school juniors. late or returned payments during the cites the 300 daily tests conducted by Via its membership in the national initial state of emergency, along with the Greater Cincinnati Water Works Touchstone Energy Cooperative, Owen halting service disconnections and (GCWW) to attest the safety of its water. Electric also funds philanthropic canceling fees for payments via debit or According to Boone County’s 2019 water endeavors. credit cards. report, GCWW is vigilant in guarding The coronavirus also challenged potable against potential contamination in the Helping customers with water providers. The Northern Kentucky Ohio River, a primary source. The Boone coronavirus challenges Water District (NKWD), the state’s third County Water District obtains its water Even with low industrial and residential largest, assured customers early on that its from the Florence Water Commission rates, power providers found 2020 water was “reliable, clean and safe.” and Greater Cincinnati Water Works. l

We unlock the power of Duke Energy for your project.

Low-cost, reliable electricity Sustainable, energy-efficient operations Six state footprint

Contact us to get started. Alan Jones 919.349.2853 locationdukeenergy.com Looking for a new site? Duke Energy provides the whole package. BOONE COUNTY Population and revenues on the rise

OONE County is growing, with the cities of Walton, Florence and Union all experiencing population Bgrowth in 2019. In February 2020, Union Mayor Larry Solomon and the city commissioners came up with a set of community values: managed growth, fiscal responsibility and putting citizens first by valuing a clean and safe city that is family-oriented. In September 2020, Boone County Fiscal Court voted Estimated population: to lower the property tax rate for its citizens for 2020-21, reducing the personal property tax rate from 12.5 cents to 131,581 pNAMED FOR DANIEL BOONE Boone Households: 46,404 11.0 cents per $100 of assessed value, and lowering the tax County is one of the three counties that make Median household income: rate of real property from 10.2 cents to 10.1 cents per $100. up the Northern Kentucky region. Its county $75,043 • And yet, the county is experiencing a growth in property seat is Burlington. Percentage of persons revenues and plans to expand the infrastructure of water with a bachelor’s degree or lines and broadband internet services by partnering with providers of those utilities. higher: 31.6% In November 2020, the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board approved $6.9 million for the County seat: Burlington funding of agricultural projects and promotions, including statewide marketing and production for beef Judge/executive: Gary W. and dairy producers. In Boone County, the Northern Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association was approved Moore, boonecountyky.org for $95,871 to administer the County Agricultural Investment Program (CAIP). Chamber of Commerce: The largest employers in Boone County include the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, nkychamber.com International Airport (CVG) in Hebron, Boone County Schools, St. Elizabeth Healthcare and Economic development manufacturers including Robert Bosch Automotive Steering and SWECO. authority: Northern In late August, the Kentucky Department of Tourism announced its “Stay Close, Go Far” Kentucky Tri-County Economic campaign, but Boone Countians have always known they don’t have to travel far for unique Development Corp. (Tri-ED), experiences. There’s Big Bone Lick State Historic Site in Union, Boone Links Golf Course in northernkentuckyusa.com Florence and the Creation Museum in Petersburg, just to name a few.

CAMPBELL COUNTY A community of innovation and recreation

T Northern Kentucky University in Highland

Heights, the fall 2020 semester brought in a Anew graduate program focused on developing new products and services for the health care industry, the first such program in the nation. The Health Care Commercialization (HCC) certificate program is all online and is geared toward entrepreneurs and medical providers. Newport on the Levee opened in 2001 and by the time it Estimated population: 93,584 reaches its 20th anniversary, the multilevel retail entertainment Households: 36,308 center will have a whole new look. The 380,000-s.f. property pHIGHLAND HEIGHTS Northern Kentucky University is located in Campbell Median household income: was purchased in late 2018 by North American Properties, a County. It has more than 14,000 students $59,782 development company headquartered in Cincinnati. In June and 2,000 faculty and staff members. Percentage of persons• 2019 the former Mitchell’s Fish Market was razed, and a major with a bachelor’s degree or redevelopment was on. In early spring of 2020, North American Properties created Bridgeview Box higher: 33.5% Park, an open-air shipping container park for eight locally owned restaurants and retailers. Construction Larger cities: Alexandria, Mayor Andy Schabell, alexandriaky.org; picked back up in September for the full-scale Newport on the Levee project, which has an anticipated and Newport, City Manager Tom opening date of mid-2021. Fromme and Mayor Jerry Peluso, In early October, Newport Racing & Gaming opened in the Newport Shopping Center. Owned newportky.gov and operated by Louisville-based Churchill Downs Inc., the 47,000-s.f. facility features 500 Las Judge/executive: Steve Vegas-style games and historical racing machines, an area for watching simulcast races and pari- Pendery, cambellcountyky.org mutuel wagering, and a bar with plenty of food choices. Chamber of Commerce: Newport-based New Riff Distillery was recognized by the Kentucky Distillers’ Association in Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, nkychamber.com November for reaching a new level of inventory. New Riff, founded in 2014, is now at the “proof” level Economic development of KDA membership, meaning it maintains an inventory between 10,000 and 25,000 barrels of distilled authority: Tri-ED, spirits aging in its Kentucky warehouses. Almost 10 million barrels of bourbon and other spirits are northernkentuckyusa.com aging in Kentucky warehouses, the highest number since KDA started keeping records in 1967.

70 The Lane Report’s Northern Kentucky Market Review 2021 lanereport.com GALLATIN COUNTY Scenic waterways, quaint communities

ALLATIN County may be small in size, but

those 99 square miles are filled with heart, Ga “can-do” spirit and a variety of businesses. Located in the northeastern part of Northern Kentucky on the banks of the Ohio River, the county is about an hour from both Cincinnati and Louisville. The county is nestled on the fertile banks of the Ohio River in Northern Kentucky, in the “Golden Estimated population: 8,869 Triangle” of Cincinnati, Louisville and Lexington. Households: 3,073 pLUXURY ON THE WATER Located directly on Gallatin County is “little, but in the middle of it Median household income: the Ohio River, the Riverside Inn Bed & Breakfast is all,” proclaims the county’s website. about half way between Louisville and Cincinnati in $50,204 • Gallatin County. It was built in 1869. In the hospitality industry, there’s Riverside Percentage of persons Inn Bed and Breakfast, a refurbished 13,000-s.f. with a bachelor’s degree or house built in 1869; locally owned restaurants like Jewell’s on Main and Deaton’s Market, both higher: 11.6% in Warsaw; and Hog Wild Pig Crazy Bar-BQ in Sparta. Spirits check off the tourism and business County seat: Warsaw, Mayor boxes with Eagle Creek Vineyard and Neeley Family Distillery. Charlie French, cityofwarsawky.org In manufacturing, Dorman Products is an automotive parts manufacturer founded in 1918 Judge/executive: Jon Ryan by the Dorman brothers in Cincinnati. Now headquartered in Colmar, Pa., the company has a Morris, gallatincounty.ky.gov warehouse and distribution center in Warsaw. Chamber of Commerce: Gallatin County Look for the former Kentucky Speedway in Sparta, Ky., to become a mixed-use development. In the Chamber of Commerce, meantime, sports enthusiasts have the opportunity to become participants instead of spectators. gallatincountykychamber.com Hartig Park and Wildlife Reserve has over 500 acres for nature lovers (and photographers) to spot wildflowers while enjoying hiking trails, equestrian trails and occasional scavenger hunts. Founded in 2013, the park is managed and maintained by Gallatin County Parks and Recreation, with the help of citizen volunteers.

GRANT COUNTY Celebrating 200 years of creative entrepreneurship

RANT County was founded in 1820, making 2020 the county’s bicentennial. The city of GWilliamstown is also 200 years old. The Grant County Tourism and Convention Commission and the Grant County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development recognize Feb. 12 as the anniversary date of both the county and the county seat. Creativity and business go hand in hand throughout Grant County. The Bluegrass Artistry Estimated population: 25,069 pFULL-SIZE REPLICA Ark Encounter, Barn is a maker space in Dry Ridge, Ky., for all kinds Households: 8,849 a one-of-a-kind, biblically themed attraction of artists and artistic entrepreneurs to work on their centered on the story of Noah’s Ark, is located Median household income: in Grant County. crafts and sell them. Member companies include Early $45,610 • Dawn Crafts, Fawnhill Woodworks, Kentucky Resin, Percentage of persons Lauren’s Designs and Co., Mudlark Pottery Studio, Rustic Products, Silverhill Leather, Tranquil with a bachelor’s degree or Tulip Jewelry and individual artists who make everything from quilts to soaps to knives. higher: 13.6% Williamstown is designated a Playful City USA, a national recognition program honoring cities County seat: Williamstown, and towns that ensure that children in their communities, especially those from low-income Mayor Rick Skinner, wtownky.org families, get the balanced and active play they need to thrive. The city prides itself on promoting Judge/executive: Chuck Dills, grantcounty.ky.gov healthy and active lifestyles for all residents. Williamstown Lake is a 330-acre water reservoir open to the public for fishing and boating. Chamber of Commerce/ economic development: In August 2020, the Ark Encounter in Williamstown opened a $3 million virtual reality (VR) Grant County Chamber of building with custom-made theater seats and VR headsets with 4K resolution for an immersive Commerce and Economic experience of motion, wind blasts and scents. In June, the Creation Museum in Petersburg opened Development a $1.2 million planetarium with laser projection. On the books for 2021, the Ark Encounter will host “40 Days & 40 Nights of Gospel Music.” In partnership with Abraham Productions, the world’s largest Christian music festival is planned for Aug. 2 through Sept. 10. lanereport.com Finding NKY’s Regional Voice 71 KENTON COUNTY Company headquarters find a home in Covington

OVINGTON has arts and crafts, a mountain

bike trail, a splash park, 40 different parks and Cplaygrounds, and a creative new way to fund these and other projects. In mid-2020, the city partnered with Horizon Community Funds of Northern Kentucky, a nonprofit community foundation, to create the Covington Parks Fund. Any individual, business or organization can make Estimated population: 166,998 a tax-deductible contribution to the fund and earmark that donation for, say, improving a specific neighborhood Households: 63,529 pLARGEST POPULATION Covington, Median household income: park or creating a new program. In the midst of a the county seat of Kenton, is the largest city $61,606 pandemic with city budgets stretched tight, this is the in Northern Kentucky. Percentage of persons• with a type of innovation that brings a community together and bachelor’s degree or higher: pays for projects at the same time. 30.4% Covington has experienced a surge of growth even during the pandemic. Several companies Total employer have announced plans to move their headquarters to the city, including DBL law firm, Hilltop establishments: 3,177 Basic Resources, M&M Service Station Equipment Specialists and Gentis Solutions. County seats: Covington, Mayor The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce honored two Kenton County companies Joe Meyer; Independence, Mayor Chris Reinersman with NKY Community Awards in the fall of 2020 for their help in advancing and promoting the Judge/executive: Kris region. St. Elizabeth Healthcare in Edgewood opened a new six-story, 250,000-s.f. cancer center Knochelmann, kentoncounty.org on Sept. 29, 25 months after construction began. The St. Elizabeth Cancer Center can treat up to Chamber of Commerce: 500 patients a day with personalized care and treatment. Candy maker Perfetti Van Melle, located Northern Kentucky Chamber of in Erlanger, added 90 new jobs during the pandemic, kept all employees healthy and safe with Commerce, nkychamber.com strict regulations and guidelines, donated face masks to St. Elizabeth Healthcare, and donated Economic development its Mentos and Airheads candies to first responders and nonprofit organizations in Northern authority: NKYTri-ED Kentucky.

201222_ lane report Ad_FINAL2.pdf 3 12/29/20 12:38 PM

EVERYBODY LOVES THE COV C

M Authentic. Unique. Energetic. Quirky. Innovative. Y … and crackling with EXCITEMENT.

CM MY A. 2,100 new jobs, $85.6MM in private investment. CY

CMY B. A blank 23-acre downtown site waiting to be filled in. K C. A revamped riverfront (with a 1,350-seat amphitheater). In 2020 D. 7 new regional/corporate HQ/“core sites.” E. Latonia Shopping Center: “Big Boxes” become modern work spaces. F. “Innovation Alley” goes on steroids. G. New Class A office space with a rooftop bar. [email protected] • 859-292-2160 • @covingtonkygov PENDLETON COUNTY Rich in resources and in spirit

OCATED about halfway between Cincinnati and Lexington, Lwhere the Main Licking River and South Licking River come together, Pendleton County is known for its rich natural resources and community spirit. The county’s motto is “We live it. You’ll love it.” As the largest county in Northern Estimated population: 14,590 Kentucky – 282 square miles – Households: 5,260 Pendleton has plenty of room for Median household income: nature and outdoor activities at places $52,620 • like Kincaid Lake State Park, which Percentage of persons offers 850 acres for camping, fishing, with a bachelor’s degree or boating and hiking. In the summer higher: 11.3% pNATURAL BEAUTY The campsite at Kincaid Lake State Park in of 2020, the Pendleton County Total employer Falmouth is one example of Pendleton County’s scenic opportunities establishments: 166 that also include Rose Hill Farm Winery. Chamber of Commerce worked with county officials to sponsor the County seat: Falmouth, Mayor Ron Stinson, cityoffalmouth.com Pendleton County Trail Quest. Utilizing the UsynligO app, they got people outside in the fresh air Judge/executive: David Fields, to log in some walking miles along the South Fork River Trail for a “walk to win” trail quest, with pendletoncounty.ky.gov gift certificates from local businesses as prizes. Chamber of Commerce: Pendleton County has an active Chamber of Commerce, public library and county extension Pendleton County Chamber of office, just to name a few organizations that foster an engaged business and civic community. Two Commerce, new locally owned restaurants opened in November: CreekView Farm in Falmouth, a café and thependletonchamber.com bakery focusing on handcrafted sweet treats; and The Kentucky Millstone in Butler, featuring artisan breads and coffee, along with cooking classes and catering.

HAMILTON COUNTY, OHIO CLERMONT COUNTY, OHIO

HIS mixed suburban and rural 460-square-mile county is located approximately 30 minutes east of TCincinnati along the Ohio River. County seat: Village of Batavia; Mayor John Q. Thebout Population: 206,424

Jobs: 66,533 Median Household Income: $64,822 Chamber of Commerce: pWATERFRONT STADIUM The Cincinnati Reds play at Great Clermont Chamber of Commerce; American Ballpark in downtown Cincinnati. clermontchamber.com Large employers: Total Quality T the center of three major highways, multiple Logistics; American Modern Insurance railroads and nationally ranked colleges and Group universities, Hamilton County is home to the city Source: REDI Cincinnati, A Clermont County Government of Cincinnati.

County seat: Cincinnati; Mayor John • Cranley County population: 817,474

Jobs: 561,472 Households: 341,873 Median Household Income: $54,976 Chamber of Commerce: Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber Large employers: Cincinnati Children’s Hospital; Kroger; pOHIO TRADITION There’s plenty of fun to be had at Coney Island Procter & Gamble in Clermont County. It has delighted visitors of all ages with its dozens of Source: REDI Cincinnati attractions for nearly 150 years.

• REGIONAL Propelling AIRPORT LEADER Lowest average airfare Community and most nonstop destinations — Pre-COVID and and during pandemic Business LOGISTICS LEADER Forward 7th largest cargo airport in North America, home to DHL Express Global Superhub and Amazon Air Hub

SIGNIFICANT ECONOMIC IMPACT $6.8 Billion in 2018

DIVERSIFIED BUSINESS FOCUS Aviation and non-aviation growth and land development

ACHIEVED GLOBAL AIRPORT HEALTH ACCREDITATION

CVGairport.com/CVG