RTA Is Investing $10 Million In The Downtown Garage
RTA Is Investing $10 Million In The Downtown Garage. The Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority (RTA) has taken a significant step in reshaping downtown Dayton urban infrastructure by announcing a $10 million investment in the long-anticipated Air City Garage project. This move is not just about building a parking structure it part of a strategic urban development initiative that aligns with broader economic, transportation, and infrastructure goals for the Dayton region.
For years, the RTA has been evaluating sustainable solutions for downtown parking and redevelopment. With rising commuter demands, limited parking access, and the need for economic revitalization, the opportunity to invest in this project represents a turning point in the city’s transformation.
A Vision Years in the Making
The vision to construct and renovate a parking garage in downtown Dayton has long been part of RTA’s strategic goals. After decades of investing over $70 million in infrastructure, services, and community transit solutions, this new move pushes RTA’s commitment even further.
The organization is now actively partnering with the Model Group, a Cincinnati-based real estate developer known for community-centric revitalization projects, to breathe new life into downtown Dayton. Together, they aim to renovate the Air City Garage, located prominently at the corner of East Fourth Street and South Jefferson Street a strategic spot in the heart of Dayton’s urban core.
Strategic Partnership: RTA and the Model Group
One of the highlights of this development is the synergy between public and private sectors. The Model Group brings a robust portfolio of successful downtown revitalizations across the Midwest. Their collaboration with RTA extends beyond just the garage—they will also spearhead the restoration of the historic Center City Building, which stands adjacent to the garage.
This dual-purpose initiative is designed to achieve multiple outcomes:
- Improve urban mobility and parking infrastructure.
- Create a modern, accessible parking facility.
- Preserve and restore Dayton’s architectural and cultural heritage.
- Stimulate economic activity and business attraction in the downtown area.
Why the Air City Garage Renovation Matters
The Air City Garage, once a busy downtown hub, has been closed for several years due to aging infrastructure. Its reopening and transformation are expected to bring much-needed parking relief and accessibility for residents, workers, and visitors alike.
Key Objectives of the Project
| Objective | Description |
|---|---|
| Enhance Parking Availability | Provide additional, secure parking spaces to support local businesses, employees, and transit users. |
| Support Adjacent Developments | Assist in the redevelopment of nearby structures, notably the Center City Building. |
| Improve Transit Connectivity | Integrate parking facilities with RTA transit routes to encourage multimodal commuting. |
| Boost Downtown Vitality | Attract more visitors, retailers, and professionals to downtown Dayton by improving infrastructure. |
The Center City Building: A Symbol of Urban Renewal
In tandem with the Air City Garage renovation, attention turns to the historic Center City Building, an iconic fixture in Dayton’s skyline. Once a vibrant commercial center, the building has been dormant in recent years. The Model Group’s restoration plan, supported by RTA’s infrastructure investment, seeks to turn the building into a multi-use space with potential for retail, office, and residential uses.
This dual development signals a renewed commitment to preserving Dayton’s historical integrity while injecting new life into its future.
Long-Term Economic and Social Impact
1. Job Creation and Economic Activity
The $10 million investment is expected to create both short-term construction jobs and long-term opportunities in management, retail, and maintenance, contributing to Dayton’s economic ecosystem.
2. Increased Public Transit Usage
With enhanced parking facilities adjacent to transit services, RTA anticipates an increase in multimodal commuting. This will reduce traffic congestion, promote sustainability, and support a greener urban lifestyle.
3. Real Estate Revitalization
Properties surrounding the Air City Garage and the Center City Building are likely to see an increase in value, encouraging further investment and real estate activity in downtown Dayton.
Funding and Future Outlook
RTA’s portion of the $10 million is part of a broader infrastructure improvement fund, strategically allocated to projects that align with regional transportation and economic development priorities. By investing in this garage and supporting private partnerships like the one with the Model Group, RTA ensures that every dollar spent contributes to a resilient, accessible, and inclusive downtown Dayton.
Community and Stakeholder Response
Early feedback from business owners and residents has been overwhelmingly positive. Stakeholders recognize that modern parking and transit infrastructure are critical to downtown Dayton’s rebirth. The RTA’s leadership in this initiative reinforces its role not just as a transportation provider, but as a key player in urban development and economic growth.
Conclusion
Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority bold $10 million investment in the Air City Garage and its partnership with the Model Group for downtown restoration marks a defining moment for Dayton. More than just a garage, this project embodies a broader vision of connectivity, economic growth, and community revitalization—ushering in a new era for downtown Dayton.
