NKyTribune staff
Cincinnati-based North American Properties has confirmed that Barnes & Noble will close in its location at Newport on the Levee Sept. 7 as part of its comprehensive redevelopment plan for the property.
The Newport on the Levee Barnes & Noble store will close in September, as part of the property’s redevelopment plan (file photo).
The closure, which was a mutual agreement between both parties, will enable North American Properties to remove a portion of the structure and incorporate a walkway through to the Ohio River. The plan is to create a more open atmosphere and make way for two new restaurants with vibrant outdoor seating. Leases for the restaurants are currently being negotiated.
“Maximizing views of the Ohio River and Cincinnati skyline are integral to our vision for the enlivened experience at Newport on the Levee,” said Tim Perry, Chief Investment Officer of North American Properties.
“Reimagining the New Newport on the Levee sometimes requires a clear canvas, and the need to reconsider that building with its impact to the arrival and outdoor experience is critical for a welcoming and magnetically social epicenter. The upper floor will house new jobs in the market and continue the curation of 18-hour uses for the community.”
North American Properties closed on its purchase of the 360,000-square-foot Newport on the Levee in December. At that time the developer indicated it planned extensive renovations at the property.
In June, North American Properties (NAP) unveiled the first glimpse of its plans for the site.
Barriers are already in place in preparation for the redevelopment of Newport on the Levee by North American Properties (photo by Mark Hansel).
The developer indicated it plans to turn Newport on the Levee into a regional attraction welcoming new dining options, authentic experiences, inviting spaces, and vibrant events that can entertain guests for 18 hours a day.
Turner Construction has been identified as the projects construction manager and owner’s representative J.S. Held will lead the transformative improvements to capital spaces throughout the property.
An announcement of the new tenants for the Barnes & Noble space is to come in the following weeks.
Contact the Northern Kentucky tribune at news@nkytrib.com
It’s a shame that NKY will be stripped of one of the few remaining bookstores in the area.