MyUnionTerminal.org shares memories, updates on possible levy

Cincinnati Museum Center has unveiled a new website that not only allows users to share their memories of Cincinnati Union Terminal, but to learn about a possible tax levy as well.

MyUnionTerminal.org, designed and programmed by Cincinnati-based Landor Associates, asks users to "Be a Star for Union Terminal" by sharing personal stories and photos of their experiences at the National Historic Landmark, which has seen more than 150 million visitors pass through its doors since opening in 1933.

"This Web site has the potential to capture and preserve some amazing stories," said Douglass W. McDonald, president and CEO of Cincinnati Museum Center. "Every day we hear about people's wonderful connections to Union Terminal and we're happy that many of these memories will now be located in one place."

Users can also browse through other memories and disseminate them through the ShareThis widget, allowing content to be spread through people's personal networks, e-mail, and multiple social media platforms.

The most powerful application of the website's tools may be the ability to spread the word about and recruit volunteers for a possible tax levy, which the Cincinnati Museum Center is hoping to place on the ballot this November.

The levy would help fund the estimated $120 in repairs needed to fully restore the 500,000-square-foot structure, including the repair of roofing, steel columns, flashing, masonry, original and replacement windows and building systems.

Restoration of interior finishes and several historic murals would also be included.

A smaller, $9 million first phase began just over a week ago when HGC Construction was named as the general contractor for the restoration of the Cincinnati Dining Room and adjacent areas.

Previous reading on BC:
Cincinnati Goes to War at Union Terminal (6/10/09)
Contractor selected, $120M Union Terminal restoration begins (6/8/09)
Museum Center seeking expanded landmark status (5/26/09)
Inside Cincinnati Union Terminal (2/18/09)
Photos: Union Terminal turns 75 (4/4/08)