Explanation
Background: This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to sign an amendment to a grant agreement with the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) for design of the East Side Rail Trail Project.
Ordinance 0103-2026 authorized the Director of Recreation and Parks to enter into a grant agreement with COTA and accept funds to be used towards design of the East Side Rail Trail, located in the Mid East rea of the City. This ordinance will authorize the Director to sign an amendment, capturing updated language that clarifies that the grant funding being awarded has already been collected, and any necessary documents related to the grant agreement. 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 linear park will provide the first trail connectivity for over 17,000 nearby residents, including direct access to the COTA Linkus rapid transit network. The grant is to provide funds towards project design in 2026. A second grant agreement, authorized by a separate ordinance, will be awarded to Recreation and Parks in 2027 for construction funding to begin 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 be completed by December 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...
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