In this episode, we explore the Barrister, an innovative affordable housing project in downtown Cincinnati's central business district. Host Brady, along with co-hosts Lily and Luke, speak with Ben Eilerman, the Director of Real Estate Development at Over-the-Rhine Community Housing, about the development, funding challenges, and its transformative impact on the city. From providing affordable housing for workers across income levels to navigating the complex funding process, this episode highlights how the Barrister is reshaping urban living and contributing to a more inclusive Cincinnati.

Key Quotes:     “We are hoping to grow our city into a more vibrant community, not just for some of us, but for all of us.” — Aftab Pureval, Mayor of Cincinnati (Brick by Brick, 7:35) 

“While we’ve seen growth and development of affordable housing projects over the Rhine and Walnut Hills, the central business district wasn’t seeing that.” — Ben Eilerman 

  “I just wanted to be in my city, to have a place in my own name.” — Todd Halsell, Barrister Resident (Brick by Brick, 2:22) 

  “We wouldn’t have been able to do this without that kind of initial piece of the state historic... During that legislation... we were very much in opposition to the legislation because we knew what a critical piece that is played.” — Ben Eilerman 

Resources Mentioned:

Brick by Brick Documentary Series (PBS)    Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC)  Federal and State Historic Tax Credits 

Links and Further Reading: Over-the-Rhine Community Housing Urban Sites Capital Advisors LISC - Local Initiative Support Corporation