If you live in Cincinnati and/or follow the latest in MLS news, you’re undoubtedly aware of FC Cincinnati’s new stadium in the West End. Driving along Central Parkway, it’s unmissable as it’s the most prominent structure within the vicinity of Taft High School and the D1 Police Station. The only nearby structure close to its size is Union Terminal, roughly 4,000 feet west of its location. To say it’s significant is an understatement.

Recently revealed as TQL Stadium, FC Cincinnati’s new field will play host to its first match on May 16th, 2021, against the Inter Miami CF. Until then, youth West End Pride games put on by the FC Cincinnati Foundation, as well as various promotional events, are taking place on the field.

But before I get any further, I need to address the elephant in the room: the inclusion of this stadium in the West End is history regardless of our opinions on it. There are very strong feelings about it from residents of the West End and nearby neighborhoods, as well as supporters of the team and those with vested interests in the club’s success. Whichever side you fall on the debate, there’s no question of whether or not this stadium in this location will have, and already has had, an impact on Cincinnati.

I documented the stadium because it is historically significant. I am curious about it from an architectural perspective, too. I wish I could have this level of photographic documentation for all past and present Cincinnati stadia, personally. The opportunity to photograph it presented itself (thanks, Ronny and Theresa), so I took it. I accompanied Ronny, who will be blogging about this on his site soon. I will link to it as soon as it’s live.

These photos were made on Sunday, May 2nd, 2021.