PR in the Philippines

Cincinnati, Ohio – August 4, 2025 – Chinedum Ndukwe, former NFL player and founder of Kingsley + Co., is advocating for redevelopment that prioritizes community needs and cultural inclusion in urban areas nationwide. Drawing on his experiences in both professional football and real estate, Ndukwe is urging developers, city officials, and community members to reconsider their definition of progress.

“You can’t simply replicate designs from one location to another,” Ndukwe stated. “People notice, and it doesn’t create a sense of belonging.”

Through Kingsley + Co., Ndukwe has been involved in projects such as the $20 million mixed-use redevelopment on Columbus’s Near East Side, aiming to revitalize the area without displacing residents. His strategy emphasizes community input, local partnerships, and reflecting the unique cultural identity of each neighborhood.

According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, almost 11 million renter households in the U.S. spend over half of their income on rent. A 2021 report by the Urban Displacement Project revealed that cultural erasure and community displacement are frequent consequences when redevelopment occurs without inclusive planning.

“To prevent displacement,” Ndukwe added, “community involvement is essential from the outset.”

He clarifies that the issue extends beyond physical structures, encompassing social aspects as well. “I’ve witnessed projects that appeared promising on paper but failed because they disregarded the existing residents.”

Ndukwe proposes a straightforward yet impactful solution: build with the community, rather than for the community. His approach focuses on “culturally inclusive design,” which involves respecting neighborhood customs, supporting local businesses, and creating welcoming spaces that foster connection rather than isolation.

Drawing parallels between real estate and football, Ndukwe, a former athlete, noted, “Every Sunday in the NFL felt like running a startup. You had to perform, adapt, and solve problems on the spot.”

This mindset now influences his development strategy. He collaborates closely with local stakeholders, partners with nonprofits, and incorporates insights from artists and historians into the design process. Through EB5 of Ohio, he’s also facilitating foreign investment in community-focused projects, such as the Marriott Fairfield Inn near the University of Cincinnati.

However, Ndukwe emphasizes that developers alone cannot drive meaningful change.

“Everyone can contribute,” he stated. “You don’t need real estate expertise to participate. Attend community meetings, ask questions, support local businesses, vote on zoning proposals, and voice your concerns when something feels amiss.”

Ndukwe is urging citizens nationwide to take action within their own communities:

• Attend planning meetings and engage with your city council members.
• Support developers and businesses that prioritize local perspectives.
• Stay informed about the potential impact of new projects on long-term residents.
• Initiate conversations about your definition of community.

“Our neighborhoods reflect the values we uphold,” Ndukwe stated. “Let’s ensure we’re investing in dignity, identity, and inclusion.”

About Kingsley + Co.:
Kingsley + Co. is a Cincinnati-based, minority-owned commercial real estate firm specializing in redevelopment, investment, and community-focused design.