Iconic attraction Coney Island in Cincinnati is set to close its doors at the end of this year, making way for an exciting new venture. Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra (CSO) and Music & Event Management, Inc. (MEMI) have announced the acquisition of all assets of Coney Island Inc. to create a groundbreaking $118 million entertainment campus.

MEMI, known for owning and operating some of Cincinnati's most popular music venues including the Andrew J. Brady Music Center, Riverbend Music Center, PNC Pavilion, and Taft Theatre and Ballroom, is partnering with CSO to unveil a state-of-the-art venue that promises to be the first of its kind.

According to a press release, this new home for live music events will merge cutting-edge technology with architectural significance, providing visitors with a mesmerizing experience. Jonathan Martin, CSO President, expressed his pride in leading the next step for the music industry, drawing parallels to how Riverbend Music Center transformed live music in the community four decades ago. With the previous success of CSO with Riverbend and PNC Pavilion, the new development aims to expand the region's music, arts, and entertainment scene, while also driving artistic excellence, innovation, and contributing to the local economy.

The ambitious plans for the venue aim to put Cincinnati "in the conversation along with other top-tier cities," and it will complement the existing venues of Riverbend and PNC Pavilion. Rosemarie Moehring, Vice President of Marketing for MEMI, highlighted the potential to host bigger and better events like festivals, ensuring that the new venue, together with Riverbend and PNC Pavilion, will create an enhanced experience for music lovers.

While the project is currently in the preliminary design phase with many decisions yet to be finalized, CSO and MEMI are aiming to create an amphitheater that will revolutionize the city's music scene. The $118 million investment demonstrates their commitment to bringing an unparalleled music, arts, and entertainment experience to Cincinnati.

Mike Smith, CEO of MEMI, expressed his excitement for this venture, stating that they are "shooting for the top of the charts." He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the history of the site, considering how to incorporate contemporary and historically significant elements into the new development. Officials have encouraged the public to stay tuned for additional information, which will be released in the coming weeks and months.

With the forthcoming transformation of Coney Island into a music and entertainment campus, Cincinnati residents and visitors can anticipate an exciting future while paying homage to the proud history of the location. The partnership between CSO and MEMI signals a significant milestone in the city's cultural landscape, promising an innovative and immersive experience for music enthusiasts.