Council Promotes Regional Cooperation for Jobs

(Columbus) Columbus City Council taps into its Jobs Growth fund at tonight’s Council meeting to join forces with Grandview Heights and craft a joint economic development strategy that will reinvigorate an important intersection for both communities.

Each city is contributing $15,000 for a study of the Dublin Road/Grandview Heights intersection area.  The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) will facilitate the process.

“Similar to our efforts to create a research and technology corridor along State Route 315, the success of this area depends, in part,  upon active, open partnerships with our suburban neighbors,” said Mary Jo Hudson, chair of Council’s Jobs and Economic Development committee. “Regional economic development approaches help everyone in central Ohio and offer new opportunities for all of us to survive and thrive in a global economy.”

The project will analyze potential redevelopment scenarios for the site and make specific provisions for key elements such as pedestrian-friendly bike paths.

“We expect to design and build a high-quality corridor that supports and serves both communities,” said Council member Maryellen O’Shaughnessy, co-sponsor of the ordinance. “It is a great example of the type of cooperation governments need to foster in central Ohio, just as we have begun with key growth corridors in the northwest area.  Together, we can better serve residents and strengthen job creation.”

Grandview Heights City Council is expected to pass a similar ordinance at their session this evening.

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