Big decisions are taking shape for the future of Clifton.
For the first time since 1982, Clifton is updating its comprehensive Neighborhood Plan—a community-driven roadmap guiding local land use, housing, transportation, environmental goals, and development priorities for decades to come.
As part of this broader planning process, Cincinnati Preservation and Clifton Town Meeting (CTM) are hosting a dedicated Community Conversation on Monday, October 12, 2026, regarding a proposed Local Historic District overlay.
Whether you are a long-time homeowner, local business owner, or renter, here is what you need to know about the draft Neighborhood Plan, the proposed historic overlay, and how to make your voice heard.
1. The Big Picture: Draft Clifton Neighborhood Plan Released
📥 [Download & Read the Draft Clifton Neighborhood Plan (PDF)]
The last neighborhood-specific plan approved for Clifton was over 40 years ago. Developed throughout 2025 and 2026 by a steering committee of local volunteers and City Planner Emily Burns, the newly released Draft Clifton Neighborhood Plan establishes a common vision for the neighborhood.
What the Plan Covers:
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Five Working Themes: Development & Housing, Environment & Parks, Transportation, Community Services & Safety, and History & Preservation.
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Resource for the City & Developers: Serves as an official guide for City staff when evaluating zoning, capital budget requests, grant applications, and new development proposals.
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How to View & Comment: The draft plan is now available online. Residents are encouraged to review the draft and submit comments directly to the city planning team.
2. Deep-Dive: What is a Local Historic District Overlay?
One of the key recommendations within the plan’s History theme is studying the creation of a Local Historic District overlay. Clifton Town Meeting voted in late 2025 to advance this study in alignment with the neighborhood plan.
A Local Historic District is a city zoning overlay designed to protect neighborhood character, prevent teardowns, and guide major street-visible exterior alterations so new infill development respects Clifton's architectural heritage.
What It Means for Property Owners:
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Routine Maintenance & Interior Remodels (No Approval Needed): Ordinary "like-for-like" repairs (e.g., repairing gutters, roof replacements with identical materials, painting, or interior renovations) do not require historic board oversight.
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Major Street-Visible Alterations (Requires Approval): Exterior changes visible from the public street—such as window replacements, vinyl siding installation, building additions, or demolitions—require a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) to ensure design compliance.
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Taxes & Values: Historic designation does not directly raise property taxes and helps protect long-term property values across the neighborhood.
3. Join the Upcoming Public Meetings & Community Conversation
Community input is essential to shaping both the Neighborhood Plan and the proposed historic overlay. Mark your calendar for these upcoming engagement opportunities:
🏛️ Local Historic District Community Conversation
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Date: Monday, October 12, 2026
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Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
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Location: Clifton Recreation Center (320 McAlpin Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220)
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Hosts: Cincinnati Preservation & Clifton Town Meeting (CTM)
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What to Expect: Learn what a historic district is (and isn't), see proposed boundaries, ask questions, and submit feedback.
📜 Additional Neighborhood Plan Public Engagement
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Wednesday, November 12, 2026 (6:00 – 7:30 PM): Clifton Public Library (3400 Brookline Ave)
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Saturday, November 15, 2026 (9:00 – 10:30 AM): Clifton Recreation Center (320 McAlpin Ave)
Can’t attend in person? Scan the QR code on the recent postcard mailer sent to Clifton households to cast your vote/feedback on the historic district, or visit the city’s project page to review and comment on the full Draft Neighborhood Plan.
Questions about the Neighborhood Plan?
For direct inquiries regarding the draft plan or city planning process, you can contact City Planner Emily Burns at emily.burns@cincinnati-oh.gov or (513) 352-4855.