Explanation
This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to apply for funding through the Clean Ohio Trails Fund (COTF) and to provide the necessary matching funds for land acquisition. If awarded the funding, a separate piece of legislation will be submitted to enter into a grant agreement and allocate the local funds.
Background: This application will propose to build a connector bridge from the Olentangy Trail to Nationwide Boulevard in downtown Columbus. The bridge will be a direct connection from the regional trail for thousands of residents and workers in the Arena District. The project will coincide with major city projects at the west end of Nationwide Boulevard, including large scale office and residential developments, biking and walking improvements to the streets, and new park developments along the east bank of the Olentangy. The bridge also provides a significant non-motorized transportation facility to a heavily congested downtown area. Trails are a significant component of the city’s health and wellness, diversity, social equity and conservation initiatives. Cycling, walking, running, and active trail uses provide highly recognized year-round benefits to urban lifestyles. Access to trails and to key destinations is one of the top rated priorities noted by residents, and this project fills a significant gap in gaining access to the core of the city. Over 2 million people visit the Arena District each year. The district contains major attractions, special events, employment centers, and rapidly expanding residential living. The Olentangy Trail travels along the west side of the river, and thousands of trail users cannot ride, walk, run, or access the east side. The connector bridge will provide a safe, direct, non-motorized corridor into the heart of the Arena District. And the bridge will connect to a 120 mile trail network spanning the entire region.
This project will support the mission of the Recr...
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