Xavier University is Truly Developing in Norwood, OH

Just when you think Norwood can't possibly take on another development, Xavier University has planned to expand it's own reign over the area by expanding to the east with a new development called Xavier Square. Quickly becoming the most predominant university in Cincinnati, the 20 acre development will truly bring a new sense of life to the campus. The Xavier Square development is a joint venture between the Xavier University and Corporex Companies. Xavier Square, also known as East Campus, will consist of :

• 120,000 Square Feet of Office Space



• 100,000 Square Feet of Retail



• 90 Room Boutique Hotel



• 550-600 Student Apartments



• 120 Market Rate Houses



• A New University Recreation Center, Bookstore, and Health Center

The development will be located on the corner of Dana Avenue and Montgomery Road, right on the edge of Norwood. The development will be located directly across from the neighboring suburb of Evanston. 7 of the 20 acres was donated by BASF Chemical Plant to the school after a fire forced the company to relocate. The Zumbiel Packaging Plant moved to Hebron, OH in 2004 and sold the 9 acre property to Xavier.

Demolition should begin in 2008 and the first phase of building will begin sometime around the first of 2009. Living only 5 blocks from the Xavier Campus, I'm truly looking forward to the change. The Xavier campus unfortunately borders an area of distressed and occasionally boarded up homes in Evanston. The real estate is prime for student housing, but there is an above average risk of vandalism and crime that keeps students and owner occupied buyers away. Hopefully this change will be the start of a residential renovation surrounding the development that will bring about families and young professionals to the area.