Explanation
1. BACKGROUND
For the past several years, Nationwide Realty Investors ("NRI") and the City of Columbus ("City") have been actively involved in the redevelopment of that area of the City now known as "the Arena District". As a part of this joint redevelopment project, the plans for the Arena West area include further improvements to Neil Avenue and Vine Street. These improvements to Neil Avenue are from a point approximately 300 feet south of Nationwide Boulevard to a point approximately100 feet north of Spruce Street. The improvements to Vine Street are from a point approximately 600feet west of Neil Ave. to a point approximately 400feet east of Neil.
In October 2011, it was determined the City Attorney's Real Estate Division would provide acquisition related services to the Department of Public Service for this project. Legislation that authorized the expenditure of $60,000.00 or so much thereof as was necessary to acquire the rights-of-way needed for the project was passed at that time (Ordinance 1683-2011). Right-of-way appraisals for the parcels needed for this project have been received and reviewed by the Real Estate Division. They recently requested an additional $40,000.00 to complete the acquisition process.
2. FISCAL IMPACT
Monies to pay for the acquisition costs associated with this roadway improvement project are budgeted and available within the 2011 Capital Improvement Budget.
EMERGENCY DESIGNATION
To keep this project on schedule it is essential the City Attorney's Office, Real Estate Division, be authorized to expend those funds necessary to continue their acquisition of these property rights needed for this project immediately.
Title
To authorize the expenditure of $40,000.00 or so much thereof as may be necessary to allow the City Attorney's Office, Real Estate Division, to acquire those rights-of-way, including fee simple title and lesser interest needed for the "Arena West" Roadway Improvements-Neil Avenue ...
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