Proposed downtown agreement would support Scioto Street Extension

Published on October 30, 2026

Powell City Council will consider legislation authorizing an agreement between the City and Cohiba Properties, LLC, to coordinate public infrastructure improvements with private revitalization in downtown Powell.

The proposed agreement involves properties at 28 and 36 N. Liberty St. and would help the City secure property needed for the Scioto Street Extension project while supporting Cohiba’s plans to renovate and redevelop its properties.

The project calls for extending Scioto Street east to Grace Drive, creating improved traffic flow downtown, public parking, public plazas, pedestrian facilities, regional stormwater drainage facilities, and other infrastructure needed to support downtown.

Under the proposed agreement, the City would provide Cohiba with milestone-based payments for the conveyance of property to the City as development approvals are completed through the entitlement process. The payments would be made in seven $50,000 installments as the developer meets specified milestones, including obtaining plan approvals, beginning construction, completing required work and securing a qualifying restaurant, retail, or entertainment tenant.

The agreement also calls for the City to convey a portion of City-owned property to Cohiba to support the private development, which will also serve to expand the proposed public plaza just north of the Cohiba property. Any additional financial incentives would require separate review and formal approval. The agreement does not replace the City's established development review and approval processes.

“This is an important step toward advancing the Scioto Street Extension while creating opportunities for private investment that benefit the broader community,” said Powell City Manager Andy White. “By coordinating public infrastructure improvements with private redevelopment, we can work toward a downtown that offers more public space, improved infrastructure and reflects the community’s goals.”

Coordinating the public and private projects would allow roadway access, parking, utilities, and stormwater infrastructure to be planned together, helping ensure the improvements work in conjunction with the proposed redevelopment.

The agreement also outlines plans for a future public plaza that would occupy portions of Cohiba’s property and City-owned property to the north. Cohiba would grant a public access and use easement for the portion of the plaza located on its property. The City and Cohiba would negotiate a separate agreement addressing the plaza’s design, construction, and reimbursement arrangements.

The proposed agreement is one step in the broader effort to extend Scioto Street, support downtown revitalization and encourage future development. The City has been working with property owners to explore arrangements that meet public infrastructure needs while accounting for private development plans.

Additional agreements and development approvals will be required as the projects move forward. City Council’s consideration of the proposed legislation would establish a framework for coordinating the public improvements with Cohiba’s private development.

The Scioto Street Extension project also has the potential to support future revitalization opportunities as Powell plans for long-term growth.