Covington Historic District Finally Approved

Covington’s original business district will soon become the city’s newest historic district.

The Covington City Commission has voted to approve a historic preservation overlay zone for the area just south of the Roebling Bridge. Bounded by Third, Sanford, Fourth and Scott, this was a thriving area before the coming of the railroads, when a new business district developed closer to the rail line. The six-block district includes some of the city’s oldest buildings. The zone is sprinkled with gems including the Bradford Block; the home of Kentucky Governor William Stevenson; the Woodford Apartments; a Federal-era residence; and a former brewery.

In process for months, the overlay district has been controversial because of vocal opposition from many property owners. The Commissioners considered a less-contentious six-month development and demolition moratorium instead. But they discarded the idea because it could have taken months to implement.

Covington preservationists strongly argued that the overlay zone would give Covington greater control over the city’s “front door.” With the designation in place, the City would have the power to weigh proposed new development against preservation of historic buildings, and would have guidelines in place to help control what could be built there. The City now intends to develop a plan for the area to further direct its development. Once the plan is adopted, the overlay zone may be removed.

The advocacy group Progress With Preservation worked very hard to create the historic overlay zone. The group was concerned about threats to significant buildings in the zone by ambitious redevelopment projects (now on hold), and the City’s lack of control over the area’s destiny. Cincinnati Preservation Association was pleased to support this effort from the beginning.

Covington has 23 historic districts that collectively cover much of the city’s basin area. The city was recently named one of the best places to buy an old house by This Old House. The magazine touted the city’s high-quality, affordable architecture, homeownership incentives, walkability, and proximity to Cincinnati.

Date posted: July 13, 2009

On the Web:
http://www.covingtonky.com/index.asp?page=historic_preservation_hpo
http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/photos/0,,20283025_20633861,00.html