This story is written by Lilly Boden as part of LINK nky’s partnership with Northern Kentucky University
You may have noticed, while driving down North Fort Thomas Avenue or Highland Avenue in Fort Thomas, a development coming to fruition on the corner.
One Highland, a mixed-use luxury condominium and commercial/retail development, began four years ago with the approval process. But construction didn’t start until February of 2020.
Now an end is in sight, with a furnished model of the residential quarters set to be on view by May 15, after which residential sales can begin.
The developer for this complex is Greiwe Development. President Rick Greiwe said the developers wanted to come together to create a town center where residents are able to live a more engaging lifestyle.
“We only build in town centers that have amenities like Fort Thomas,” Greiwe said. “All services within walking distance, parks, the hometown feel and I knit these new developments in the existing fabric of a community so it feels like home.”
The One Highland estate consists of in-building commercial space on the first floor with residential living above, along with a 40-car garage below the complex with two assigned parking spaces and storage for each unit.
Some businesses you can expect to move into this complex: Fort Thomas Coffee, which includes a bakery that turns into a wine bar at 4 p.m.; Bisbe Capital financial services; and Dr. Troy Kramer’s Dentistry.
There is also a possibility of a women’s apparel shop moving into the complex, along with a kids corner and general workspace, Greiwe said.
“Now we can see the end in sight,” Greiwe said. “We will be having a grand opening celebration on June 29.”
As for parking?
“The back property of 18 N Ft. Thomas Ave. will now be a parking lot for the whole cultural arts district,” said Economic Development Director/Events Coordinator for Fort Thomas, Chanda Calentine. “We will make changes as we see fit and respond as needed if any problems arise after the opening of One Highland.”
Finance director Joe Ewald said some people who live near the development have had to deal with parking issues, construction noise, and traffic.
“But,” Ewald said, “its location benefits citizens because they have access to retail and are able to live in a walkable community.”
Click here learn more about the One Highland Development, and watch a virtual tour here.