Explanation
Background: This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to apply for grant funding from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Clean Ohio Trails Fund (COTF) which will be used to build a section of the Big Walnut Trail from Winchester Pike to Helsel Park.
The southern segment of the Big Walnut Trail is developing into one of the region’s most scenic greenways. It is also putting the regional trail network within reach of thousands of residents of the Mid East neighborhoods of Columbus, recognized as one of the least served areas of the city for parks and trails. This project will build 1.25 miles of trail from its current end at Winchester Pike to Helsel Park, directly connecting to a local shared use path for the Hamilton and Refugee Road neighborhoods. This will be the first of two phases of south Big Walnut trail development, with a second phase continuing the trail to Nafzger Park. In 2020, the Department studied alternatives for this path alignment, including what wetlands or significant environmental assets are along the corridor. The project will include one bridge over Big Walnut Creek at Helsel Park and a connector path for the Edgewater Park and Harbor Boulevard neighborhoods.
ODNR administers statewide grant funding for the construction of trails and this ordinance authorizes an application for 2021 COTF grant funds only. ODNR requires that a resolution, ordinance, or other written documentation obligate funds for the project as part of the application. This ordinance is a commitment to provide the necessary match funds at a later date to satisfactorily complete the proposed project and become eligible for reimbursement under the terms and conditions of the grant. If the grant funding is awarded, future legislation will follow to authorize acceptance, appropriation, and expenditure of City funds from within the Recreation and Parks Voted Bond Fund.
Principal Parties:
Ohio Department of Natura...
Click here for full text