Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Delivery Method: GC
Industry: Municipal
Universal Contracting served as the General Contractor for the construction of the National Steamboat Monument, a one-of-a-kind public installation located along the Ohio River at Cincinnati’s Public Landing. The project created a signature civic landmark celebrating the region’s rich steamboat history.
The scope included construction of a new plaza over the public landing access drive, along with concrete stairs providing connectivity to the riverfront. The centerpiece of the monument is a full-scale replica of the American Queen steamboat paddlewheel, elevated on 30-foot pedestals above the plaza.
The work included:
- New plaza construction over existing access drive
- Concrete stairs to the public landing
- Installation of elevated paddlewheel structure
- Interactive stainless steel steam towers
- Site concrete and foundation systems
The monument also features interactive stainless steel towers designed to emit steam, creating a dynamic public art installation that engages visitors while honoring Cincinnati’s riverfront heritage.
This project reflects Universal’s ability to deliver complex civic and public space construction that integrates structural elements, site development, and artistic features within a highly visible urban environment.
