City moves forward on Festival Park and James Taylor Park designs; FC Cincinnati mini‑pitch eyed for Bernadette Watkins Park

City parks staff told commissioners they are advancing two major riverfront projects and a neighborhood recreation addition that together reshape Newport’s waterfront access.

Festival Park: Parks staff said Festival Park has an $8.5 million budget composed of roughly $5 million in city bonds and just over $3 million in an OKI grant. Two competitive construction bids were shortlisted and staff plans a design‑build contract; construction documents will be prepared over several months with construction targeted for late 2026 and substantial completion early‑to‑mid 2027. The project will require coordination with the Army Corps of Engineers and SD1 for stormwater work on the riverfront.

James Taylor Park: Staff said James Taylor Park carries a $7.5 million grant and that construction bids just closed; construction is expected to start in spring or early summer 2026 with completion by year‑end. City staff said project managers expect to sequence James Taylor and Festival Park work to maintain continuity of riverfront design and multiuse path connections.

Mini pitch at Bernadette Watkins Park: The FC Cincinnati Foundation has proposed a 100x50‑foot ‘‘mini pitch’’ suited for urban settings. Staff identified Bernadette Watkins Park as the preferred site and said the partners hope to announce progress in spring 2026; final site plans, tree protection and maintenance obligations remain to be settled.

Hooters site and riverfront parking: Commissioners also discussed the Hooters site (now reverted to city control) and future RFP/RFQ options; staff said controlling the riverfront parking there will allow the city to better manage revenues and public access.

Next steps: Staff said renderings and contract awards will be presented at the upcoming special call and that community input and two contractor‑led park‑committee meetings are required as part of construction documents.