The historic World Peace Bell in Newport, which has gained international recognition in 2000, is set to be relocated to accommodate new development. The Newport City Commission recently approved plans for a mixed-use development project on a city block bordered by Monmouth, York, Fourth, and Fifth streets where the bell currently stands.
The revitalization of this prime real estate has been in the works for decades. The project took five years of planning and involves moving the bell to open up space currently occupied by a parking lot. Plans call for relocating it temporarily to General James Taylor Park along the Ohio River before its final destination at an office building that will house both the bell and its offices.
The agreement for the redevelopment was reached with hotel operator Shaun Pan, owner of nearby Hampton Inn & Suites. Funding for the project comes from a combination of private and public sources, including bonds issued with approval from the city, county, state, and local school district. The developer is expected to invest $20 million by October 2025 as part of the agreement. Site preparation has already begun with demolition and construction activities set to intensify in May.
