Reported by: Shannon KettlerWeb produced by: Jessica NollA Northern Kentucky community marked an important milestone Wednesday.
The City of Newport celebrated the construction of a new, luxury condo building on the riverfront.
Fireworks on Newport's riverfront expressed the excitement that Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati leaders have for the new SouthShore condominium complex.
"This is truly a good time in this region. There is so much energy, so much passion and so much recognition, that together we can continue to create a region that will attract people, not just from across this country, but from around the world," said Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory.
SouthShore promises not just luxury living, but a luxury lifestyle.
"We have concierge services that can arrange for food delivery. We can have a limousine that can bring them to the airport. And that's what we bring that's absolutely unique and has never been done in the region," said Alec Bastos, a SouthShore General Partner.
With close proximity to restaurants and Newport on the Levee, SouthShore attracted more folks from across the river.
Developers said the opening of the Ascent in Covington only helped.
"We were really not in competition with each other. But what was interesting is that most of the buyers came from Cincinnati. It really shows we are one community. The old concept of the barriers are gone," said Bastos.
"The location here is close proximity to my office downtown. The views on this side of the river, being able to look at Mt. Adams, and the cityscape at night is just beautiful. So it was not a tough decision at all," Michael Krienek, who is moving from Cincinnati.
On Wednesday, residents signed their names on a spire that was then placed on top of the building marking a high moment for Newport.
"I was born here, and I have seen the city up and down and back and forth, it’s just great all this re-growth and new things, and things that are positive," said Carol Howard, a longtime Newport resident.
All but for four of the 40 homeowners are from Cincinnati and hope to move in by the fall.
A second condo high-rise may be built by next year.
