Factory 52

Norwood mixed-use development brings density and vibrancy while paying homage to its roots

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In-Process Project – This project is in process, and information may change. This page will be updated as it progresses.

Project Overview:

Phase 1A: (2021-2023) Multi-phase, mixed-use development on the 20-acre former US Playing Cards site. The Norwood property was once U.S. Playing Card Company’s main production facility, supplying playing cards worldwide. Factory 52 incorporates the original factory, cafeteria, clock tower, and smokestack into the development, and also added multiple nods to the site’s history through public art installations and murals.

Phase IA includes:

300 apartments
19,000 SF Market Hall
11,500 SF Tap House/Brewery
Two Parking Garages
Redevelopment of Existing Clock Tower
Public Dog Park
Central Green and Park Space
8,500 SF of amenity and retail space
Various roadway and infrastructure improvements

The Port supported this initial phase of the project through its public finance practice, issuing Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Bonds through the Southwest Ohio Regional Bond Fund (SORBF) and the Central Ohio Bond Fund. Additionally, The Port issued Lease Revenue Bonds.

Phase 1B: (2023-2024) Construction of 128 market-rate apartment units within the multi-phase Factory 52 Project. Set on the site of a former power plant at the U.S. Playing Card complex, this phase brings the total residential units at Factory 52 to over 400. The five-story structure includes a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units.

The Port provided public financing for this phase of Factory 52, entering into Capital Lease and issuing Lease Revenue Bonds.

For more information: https://www.factory52.com/

Impact:

Vacant, former U.S. Playing Card Factory site transformed into a community center with public amenities and gathering spaces, residential units, retail and recreation spaces, and food hall. The project is anticipated to create 400 full-time jobs and 100 part-time jobs.