Herald: Byron, after a decade on the Cincinnati City Planning Commission, including five years as chairman, what are your thoughts on the city’s growth during your tenure?
Byron Stallworth: Cincinnati has seen impressive growth, especially in infrastructure, housing, and commercial development. But, I believe there’s still tremendous opportunity for further expansion, particularly within our African American communities. Cincinnati leads urban population in terms of growth in urban core in the state of Ohio.
Herald: Can you highlight a development project that stands out regarding inclusion and community involvement?
Byron Stallworth: Without a doubt, the TQL Stadium in the West End is a prime example. FC Cincinnati did a phenomenal job ensuring significant minority participation, achieving a 76% involvement rate for MBE/WBE/SBE firms in direct contracts and subcontracts. That level of inclusion is rarely seen in large-scale developments.
Herald: What made that project so successful regarding community engagement?
Byron Stallworth: It was the direct result of a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) between FC Cincinnati and the West End Community Council. The Port Authority set economic inclusion goals of 25% MBE, 7% WBE, and 30% SBE, and the Black community played a substantial role in the project. I haven’t seen that kind of community involvement since working on the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center during its development.
Herald: How have you seen diversity evolve in Cincinnati’s construction and business landscape?
Byron Stallworth: There has been a positive shift, especially among companies headquartered here. Organizations like Procter & Gamble, The Kroger Co., Fifth Third Bank, and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital have significantly committed to diverse supply chains. That said, there’s still room for improvement, particularly in ensuring Black architects and developers have access to major projects.
Herald: What neighborhoods do you see as hotspots for growth?
Byron Stallworth: Oakley and Madisonville have seen remarkable transformations. Oakley Square has developed into a thriving community. Med Pace Complex at Madison and Red Bank, another. I’d love to see similar investments along Reading Road, where the expansions of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and the University of Cincinnati are already impacting the city. The planned Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system from Downtown through Reading Road could drive further development in Bond Hill and Roselawn, which are prime for investment.
Herald: Speaking of housing, what’s your take on Cincinnati’s affordable housing landscape?
Byron Stallworth: The city is working to increase housing density. Former City Managers like Milton Dohoney, Harry Black, Sheryl Long, and Mayors John Cranley and Aftab Pureval have pushed for more affordable housing. But the shortage is still significant—anywhere from 20,000 to 40,000 homes/units are needed.
Herald: What housing trends have you noticed?
Byron Stallworth: The market is shifting. Many buyers and renters prefer homes with low-maintenance designs, so we’re seeing small condo complexes in Madisonville, Oakley and Silverton. However, too many out-of-town investors have neglected their properties, leaving tenants in poor conditions. The Cincinnati Port Authority is working to address this issue by purchasing and renovating properties and educating renters on pathways to homeownership.
Herald: Let’s talk about the Planning Commission itself. What role has diversity played on the board?
Byron Stallworth: Mayor Aftab Pureval has praised the Planning Commission as the most diverse board in the city. Half men, half women. Balance in race and gender. The Commission includes Vice Mayor Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney, City Manager Sheryl Long or her appointee, John Eby, Anne Sessler, Darrick Dansby, new Chairman, Jacob Samad, and Vice Chair Daniella Beltran. There is a strong representation of Black and Hispanic members. Diversity is essential since nearly half of Cincinnati’s population is minority-based.
Herald: You’ve mentioned a lack of Black architects presenting projects before the board. What are your thoughts on that?
Byron Stallworth: In my entire tenure, I only saw one Black architect—David Kirk—bring a project before us as lead designer. That has to change. There are prime opportunities for Black architects and designers in Cincinnati’s development landscape, and we need to ensure they’re included in these projects. Frankly, I think projects need inclusion throughout projects from design to maintenance after construction.
Herald: Looking back, what projects are you most proud of?
Byron Stallworth: There have been several. Some of the most impactful include the development of TQL Stadium; Medpace Campus; DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) at The Banks; infrastructure upgrades in Clifton around the University of Cincinnati; the nationally renowned BLINK Festival; and the city’s Connected Communities legislation.
I’ve also had the privilege of leading or contributing to launching the African American Cultural Resource Center at UC; leading major campaigns with Keep Cincinnati Beautiful, like Adopt-a-Block and Glad-Bag-A-Thon; serving as Director of Government Affairs for the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, which had a 42% M/WBE spend; chairing the City of Cincinnati Charter Review Task Force (2015); and serving as Vice Chair of the Green Umbrella Board of Trustees (2015-2023.
Herald: You’ve had an impressive career advocating for inclusion and development. What’s next for you?
Byron Stallworth: As Founder and CEO of Inclusion Building Solutions, I continue pushing for supply chain diversity and business development. My focus is ensuring minority-owned businesses have a seat at the table when shaping Cincinnati’s future.
Herald: One final question—who’s stepping into your shoes on the Planning Commission?
Byron Stallworth: That would be Derrick Dansby. He brings significant experience as a Realtor, construction advocate, and former 3CDC and Price Hill Will staff member. Undoubtedly, he will do a great job continuing the commission’s work.
Herald: Byron, thanks for your time and dedication to making Cincinnati a more inclusive and forward-thinking city.
Byron Stallworth: My pleasure. Cincinnati has incredible potential, and I’m excited to see where it goes next.