Discover the Pulse of Columbus's Urban Evolution

Downtown: The Epicenter of Growth and Innovation

The heart of Columbus continued to throb with activity as several major projects reached critical milestones. Notably, the Merchant Building at North Market showcased remarkable advancement, symbolizing the city’s commitment to revitalization. Edwards Companies’ two towering mixed-use structures—one at 100 N. High St. and another on East Broad—now stand proudly, topped off and poised for further development. The transformation of the former Continental Centre into residential spaces has been equally impressive, benefiting from state historic preservation tax credits awarded in late 2022.

Grant Medical Center’s ambitious expansion project, first unveiled in 2023, surged forward with the initial phase nearing completion. Vine Street welcomed new apartments, adding vibrant living options. Meanwhile, the demolition of the former Democratic headquarters paved the way for Elevate 340, a promising new apartment complex. At 145 S. Front St., crews began converting an empty building into much-needed residential and office spaces, signaling a fresh chapter for this prime location.

University District: Blending Tradition with Modernity

Just steps away from Ohio State University, the five-story structure rising from the former Godman Guild site exemplifies the district’s evolving skyline. Nearby, the 4th and 5th development neared completion, enhancing the neighborhood’s appeal. Two major university projects—the Wexner Medical Center’s new tower and a state-of-the-art power plant—continued their steady progress, reinforcing OSU’s role as a catalyst for innovation.

Across Lane Avenue, the Harrison Apartments replacement project advanced, introducing a modern seven-story edifice. Efforts to revitalize the former Indianola Middle School moved forward, breathing new life into the eastern edge of the district. The demolition of the Summit on 16th church cleared the path for student housing, underscoring the district’s growing residential offerings. Adjacent to Woodruff and Waldeck, work commenced on new apartments, further enriching the area’s housing landscape.

Franklinton: Embracing Change and Heritage

Franklinton experienced a wave of transformative developments, starting with the third phase of Gravity, expanding next to its second phase. The Mount Carmel site witnessed the near-completion of new apartments, adding to the area’s residential diversity. Starling Yard, incorporating elements of the historic Starling Middle School, emerged as a unique blend of old and new. Construction also kicked off on the second phase of River and Rich, alongside several townhomes nearby.

Pilot Dogs campus underwent significant changes, reflecting the organization’s ongoing evolution. Plans for approximately 50 scattered-site homes between Yale and Guilford streets signaled a renewed focus on community development. These initiatives collectively positioned Franklinton as a dynamic and inclusive neighborhood, ready to embrace its future while honoring its past.

South Side: Healthcare Expansion and Affordable Housing

Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s new tower began to rise, marking a pivotal moment in the hospital’s ever-growing campus. Despite the loss of the historic Farm Crest Bakeries Building, which made way for Granville Woods apartments, the South Side maintained its momentum. The Rice Bowl restaurant’s site now hosts new affordable housing units, addressing the community’s needs.

The Near East Side saw the Diehl-Whittaker funeral home’s former location transform into a thriving project. Renovations at the Edna Building and Fran Ryan Center progressed steadily, contributing to the area’s renaissance. Across from East Market, a stackable building aimed for early 2025 completion, signaling a new era of development in this part of the city.

West Side: Revitalization Along the Scioto River

The West Side prepared for the emergence of WestBend, a mixed-use development set to rise on a former auto salvage site along the Scioto River. Environmental remediation neared completion, laying the groundwork for this ambitious project. A new hotel adjacent to Hollywood Casino Columbus added to the area’s allure, while Quarry Trails welcomed several apartment buildings in various stages of completion.

Beyond these developments, October brought an exclusive tour of the $250 million tunnel under construction beneath Columbus, showcasing the city’s infrastructure advancements. Riverside Methodist Hospital’s expansion gained traction, highlighting the healthcare sector’s growth. Major projects like Intel’s factory and Honda/LG’s battery plant underscored Central Ohio’s industrial prowess, setting the stage for sustained economic vitality.

Other Neighborhoods: Diverse Projects Flourish

Across the broader Columbus landscape, diverse projects flourished. Parkline, a 385-unit apartment complex at Grandview Yard, took shape rapidly. Behind Lucky’s and CVS on Neil Avenue, new apartments sprouted, responding to the area’s demand. Vista Village, a tiny home community, anticipated welcoming its first residents in 2025. Upper Arlington’s Kingsdale community center and Golden Bear shopping center redevelopment brought fresh energy to the suburb.

Mount Carmel’s Dublin facility broke ground, signaling expanded healthcare services. COTA’s new Rickenbacker facility geared up for a 2025 opening, enhancing public transportation. Coffee Fest relocated due to Ohio Village’s overhaul, indicating widespread revitalization efforts. Bexley’s Main Street welcomed a new mixed-use development, while Hilliard, New Albany, Reynoldsburg, and Marysville embarked on their own transformative journeys, painting a picture of a city in perpetual motion.