Joseph family proposes new development on vacant Norwood lot near Xavier University

A significant development proposal took center stage at the Norwood Housing, Health & Public Safety Meeting on March 18, 2025, as city officials discussed plans for a vacant lot adjacent to Xavier University. The site, located on Montgomery and Lexington, has been largely unused since the Joseph family acquired it nearly a decade ago.

City representatives clarified that the new project is not a student housing initiative, despite its proximity to the university. Instead, it aims to revitalize a large, overgrown property that has become a blight on the community. The lot stretches from Montgomery to Regent, near School Outfitters, and has remained largely undeveloped since previous plans for a Volkswagen dealership were scrapped due to community opposition.

The Joseph family is now looking to engage with the community to inform the new development plans, marking a shift in approach after past proposals were met with resistance. This evolution highlights the importance of community input in shaping local development, as officials emphasized the need for a project that aligns with the needs and desires of Norwood residents.

As discussions continue, the city anticipates that this revitalization effort will not only enhance the neighborhood but also address the long-standing issue of blighted properties in the area. The next steps will involve further community engagement and planning to ensure the project meets local expectations and contributes positively to the community's landscape.