Building Together: Why Collaboration Matters
When I first stepped into the world of real estate development after my NFL career, I came in with a strong sense of purpose. I wanted to make a difference in the communities that often get overlooked—places where years of disinvestment have left behind vacant buildings, empty lots, and frustrated residents. It didn’t take me long to realize that if we truly want to revitalize these neighborhoods, we can’t do it alone. The public sector and private sector need to work hand-in-hand. That’s where Public-Private Partnerships (P3s) come in.
At Kingsley + Co., our mission has always been about more than buildings. We aim to create long-lasting, positive impact—and P3s have become one of the most important tools in making that happen. These partnerships allow developers, city leaders, and community stakeholders to align their resources and strengths to do something bigger than any of us could do on our own.
A Smarter Way to Rebuild Cities
Urban revitalization is not a one-size-fits-all process. Every community has its own history, culture, and needs. But one thing that’s true across the board is that revitalization takes money, vision, and cooperation. Governments often have access to land, funding tools, and political support. Private developers like us bring experience, project management, and the ability to move quickly and efficiently. When we combine forces, we can fast-track projects that might otherwise get stuck in red tape or budget constraints.
Take underutilized city-owned properties, for example. In many cities, there are public buildings or lots just sitting idle—costing taxpayers money and bringing no value to the community. Through a P3, a city can offer that land to a private developer under a shared vision. We bring in capital and expertise to build something useful—whether it’s affordable housing, a mixed-use space, or a community resource center—and the public gets a meaningful return. It’s a win-win.
More Than Just a Deal
What I love about these partnerships is that they’re not just about closing a deal—they’re about solving problems. When done right, P3s can address a wide range of community needs: housing, jobs, health care, small business support, and more. But to get there, trust is key.
That’s why at Kingsley + Co., we take time to build relationships on both sides. We talk to city leaders and local residents to understand what’s needed, and we stay involved throughout the process. It’s not just about putting up buildings; it’s about helping communities rebuild their identity and their confidence.
A big part of my job is being the bridge between the boardroom and the block. I speak the language of investors, but I also understand the concerns of longtime residents who want to know: “Is this for us?” That’s a fair question, and one that every developer should be ready to answer. If the people who already live in a neighborhood don’t benefit from revitalization, then it’s not revitalization—it’s replacement.
Making It Real: A Local Example
One of the projects I’m most proud of came out of a public-private collaboration right here in Cincinnati. The goal was to take a forgotten property and turn it into something that would serve the community. The city offered support, local organizations helped shape the vision, and our team at Kingsley + Co. brought the resources to make it happen.
The result wasn’t just a beautiful building—it was a community anchor. It created jobs, attracted small businesses, and brought back energy to a part of the city that had been quiet for far too long. That’s the kind of impact that keeps me motivated. And that’s the kind of project that shows what’s possible when we work together.
Challenges Are Real, But Worth It
I won’t sugarcoat it—public-private partnerships can be complex. They involve multiple stakeholders, long timelines, and sometimes conflicting priorities. You have to be patient, transparent, and adaptable. But when it works, it’s worth every hour spent in meetings and negotiations.
The key is staying mission-driven. It’s easy to lose focus when you’re deep in zoning approvals or financing paperwork. But I always try to come back to the “why”: Why are we doing this project? Who will it serve? How will it leave the community better than we found it?
If those questions stay at the center, then you’ll keep moving in the right direction—even when the process gets tough.
A Blueprint for the Future
As cities across the country wrestle with how to address housing shortages, revitalize downtowns, and build more inclusive communities, I believe P3s will play a bigger role than ever. But we have to approach them with care. That means setting clear expectations, holding all partners accountable, and making sure community voices are heard from day one.
I believe deeply in the power of collaboration. It’s what allowed me to succeed in football, and it’s what drives me in business today. Public-private partnerships, when built on trust and shared vision, are one of the most powerful tools we have to create lasting change. We just have to be willing to do the work, together.
Because at the end of the day, revitalization is about more than buildings. It’s about people. It’s about creating places where families can thrive, where kids can dream big, and where the future feels just as rooted as the past. That’s the kind of legacy I want to leave—and that’s the kind of work I’ll keep showing up for.