Cincinnati to study repurposing of abandoned subway tunnels

The City of Cincinnati has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a feasibility study to explore adaptive reuse options for its unused subway tunnel system beneath Central Parkway. The tunnel infrastructure extends approximately 2.2 miles and has remained dormant for nearly a century. 

The study will assess structural integrity, economic potential, regulatory requirements, and infrastructure upgrades needed—including ventilation, waterproofing, and accessibility systems. Possible end uses under consideration range from cultural or event spaces to public transit, recreation, retail, or combinations thereof. 

Proposals responding to the RFP are due by October 21, 2025. If selected, the consultant or firm will create foundational analyses to enable future decision-making. 

The abandoned subway system has been a point of interest among urban planners and civic stakeholders. The city had previously solicited ideas via a Request for Information (RFI) in late 2024, collecting creative proposals from architects, designers, and citizens.  Proposals included ideas such as underground arts venues, pedestrian and bike paths, markets, performance spaces, and stormwater management projects.