Explanation
Background: This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to enter into a grant agreement with the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) for design of the East Side Rail Trail Project. This ordinance will also authorize the acceptance and appropriation of the grant funds. The grant amount available for this project being authorized by this ordinance is $100,000.00.
In 2025, the Recreation and Parks Department successfully applied for grant funds towards the design of the East Side Rail Trail, located in the Mid East Area of the City. The project will transform an abandoned rail corridor into a linear park and trail from East Broad Street to Livingston Avenue near Interstate 70. The three mile, 17.5 acre rail trail will provide the first trail connectivity for over 17,000 people nearby, including direct access to the COTA LinkUS rapid transit network. The grant funding will provide funds towards project design in 2026. A second grant agreement, to be authorized with a separate future ordinance, will be awarded to the Recreation and Parks Department in 2027 to support the construction of the rail trail.
Principal Parties:
Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA)
33 North High Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215
Garth Weithman, (614) 275-5935
Emergency Justification: Emergency action is requested so design of the project can begin by March 2026 to meet the project's schedule mandated by the COTA grant funding.
Benefits to the Public: This project will provide access to transit, parks, libraries, a community center, commercial centers, and jobs.
Community Input/Issues: The community has provided input to the project during the past 6 years. Extensive public engagement will continue during the 2026 design process.
Area(s) Affected: Mid East (57)
Master Plan Relation: This project will support the Recreation and Parks’ Master Plan by nurturing an active and healthy community.
Fiscal Impact: This ordinance will authorize the...
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