It's still a draft and subject to change, but since it's been published officially, we're here to show it. FC Cincinnati will soon formally submit their second bid to build an MLS-specific venue.

As you surely know, next year FC Cincinnati is joining MLS. The team has already proved very popular as a USL (2nd league) side, topping the list of attendances for three years in a row! FC Cincy began with a regular following of nearly 17,500 and this year they're already in the 25,000+ range. It's thus no wonder that their new stadium scheme is followed closely by media nationwide.

Though the first stadium bid for FC Cincinnati was shown in the picturesque Newport area, final location of the venue was switched to different one from three analysed plots, in West End. Here the MLS-specific stadium will replace the athletic Willard Stargel Stadium and parking sites lying directly east of it.

Another major change is the increase in starting capacity from just over 21,000 to at least 25,500 or even 26,500 seats (depending on final layout). This was caused by very good attendances at Nippert Stadium, well beyond initial expectations. Contrary to the preliminary concept of 2017, the stadium will not provide an open end with view of the skyline. In turn, all sides will largely be occupied. Most vocal fans should receive 3,000 seats on a single-tier terrace in the north.

Along the starting concept, the stadium should be covered with translucent ETFE, allowing for impressive nighttime illumination. Segments will be irregular and provide openings, creating a strong and dynamic outer form. At peak (west side) the stadium will reach 36 meters in height (under 120 feet).

The design is yet to see some changes, though they should not be fundamental. The full concept plan will be presented to the City of Cincinnati on Nov. 19, 2018 for technical review.

The club’s formal submission of its schematic design, the second stage of design which will include further adjustments following a technical review, will be made to the city on Dec. 3, 2018.

The design development stage will continue into the first quarter of 2019 before a series of final construction documents are submitted ahead of the start of construction on the stadium next spring. The stadium is scheduled to open in March 2021.