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File #: 0394-2026    Version: 1
Type: Ordinance Status: Council Office for Signature
File created: 2/4/2026 In control: Neighborhoods, Recreation, & Parks Committee
On agenda: 2/23/2026 Final action:
Title: To authorize the Director of Recreation and Parks to enter into a grant agreement with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) for the Joan Park Improvements Project and accept a grant in the amount of $150,000.00; to authorize the appropriation of $150,000.00 in the Recreation and Parks Grant Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($150,000.00)
Attachments: 1. Legislation - Joan Park Improvements - ODNR NatureWorks Grant Acceptance - FINAL - ATTACHMENT.pdf
Explanation

Background: This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to enter into a grant agreement with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) for the Joan Park Improvements Project. This ordinance will also authorize the appropriation of the grant funds. The grant amount available for this project being authorized by this ordinance is $150,000.00. The grant funds will be used to assist in funding improvements to Joan Park in the City's Northeast Community.

Joan Park is a 4 acre greenspace located in the Northeast Community at 1927 Myrtle Avenue. The park is an important neighborhood gathering space and is in significant need of improvements to its recreational amenities. The project will construct a walking loop path, add new site furnishings, and improve site drainage. The project will also create better access and visibility for the surrounding residents. Over 2,700 residents live within a few minutes of the park.

Principal Parties:
Ohio Department of Natural Resources
2045 Morse Road
Columbus, Ohio 43229
Dee Burlison, (614) 265-6834

Emergency Justification: Emergency action is requested to allow time for detailed design of the park and construction bidding to complete by the fourth quarter of 2026 in order to satisfy the requirements of the ODNR grant that is contributing funding to the project construction.

Benefits to the Public: This project will provide active recreation areas, access to naturalized areas, passive recreation spaces, and active transportation access.

Community Input/Issues: The surrounding neighborhood has expressed a strong priority to improve the park's appearance, usability, addition of shade trees, play space, picnic shelter, and walking loop path.

Area(s) Affected: Northeast (41)

Master Plan Relation: This project will support the Recreation and Parks’ Master Plan by providing quality recreational parks and trails. It will also provide neighborhood connectivity for Columbus residen...

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