The Banks will undergo second phase of development - Cincinnati News, Weather, Sports from FOX19 NOW-WXIX

The Banks will undergo Phase IIA of an expansion plan of the riverfront area in Greater Cincinnati that began in April of 2008.

Just steps away from Great American Ball Park is the first phase of The Banks development can be witnessed by patrons who visit the area.  The retail space is 91 percent leased, and the residential parts are 100 percent occupied.

"You've got entertainment.  You've got people.  You've got the great atmosphere.  The energy is all here," said Chris Byrd of Mason.

Phase IIA is the next in line for construction.  Pending formal approval from the city and county, will be nine stories tall, have 305 one- and two-bedroom apartments, and about 21,000 feet of retail space. 

The location will sit next to the Freedom Center from Rosa Parks and Race Street between Freedom Way and Second Street.

"I'm looking forward to it immensely.  They can only go forward in a good way.  It's great for the city," added Byrd.

The Tin Roof, a restaurant, will celebrate its first anniversary at The Banks this September. 

Management the establishment could not be happier to have new neighbors.

"Cincinnati's taken us in down here and the Banks are just going to keep growing and growing, and getting busier and busier, especially with Phase II getting ready to open up.  I think they're trying by the All-Star Game, but it's going to be a great time," said William Hodges, general manager of the Tin Roof at The Banks.

One Reds fan comes to Great American Ball Park about twice a year.  He says with development like this, it's another reason to come to the game.

"It brings you down earlier and lets you stay later.  If not, we would have came down, and left, been gone already," said Joseph Mantz of Beavercreek.

There are plans for a new hotel next to GABP as part of Phase IIA, with more work expected around the area as the entire project moves on.

The entire Banks project won't be finished until 2020.

Copyright 2013 WXIX. All rights reserved.