Luvcbus

Just over half of the superloads headed to Central Ohio have been delivered... "The thirteenth of nearly two dozen “super loads,” and second of four loads that exceed 900,000 pounds, will depart the dock site in Adams County on Monday, July 8. The convoy will head to New Albany to deliver the load to the site of the new Intel plant in Licking County. This load, an air processor known as a cold box used in the silicon chip manufacturing process, measures approximately 23’ tall, 20’ wide, 280’ long, and weighs 916,000 pounds. The move is scheduled to take more than a week. It will make stops in West Portsmouth, Lucasville, Chillicothe, Rickenbacker, Pickerington, and Pataskala, before being delivered on Tuesday, July 16." Complete route details can be found at transportation.ohio.gov/superload https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/OHDOT/bulletins/3a564a8

Improvements coming to E. Broad St near Mt Carmel- will include shared-use paths on Broad St, Taylor Station Rd, and McNaughten Rd Councilmember Lourdes Barroso de Padilla is sponsoring ordinance 1660-2024 to authorize the Director of Public Service to enter into a $25.5 million contract with Complete General Construction Company for road improvements on Columbus’ east side. This project will support the expansion of E. Broad Street from east of I-270 to west of Brice Road by 1 mile, Taylor Station Road from E. Broad Street to the entrance of Mount Carmel Medical Park by 0.2 miles, and McNaughten Road from E. Broad Street to Ganse Lane by 0.19 miles. Also, a shared-use path will be added onto E. Broad Street, Taylor Station Road, and McNaughten Road. There will also be upgrades to the intersections along E. Broad Street at Taylor Station Road, McNaughten Road, Blossom Field Boulevard, Outerbelt Street, and Chris Perry Lane.

Planned lodging at The Wilds will allow guests to look into giraffe barn "The Wilds will be the recipient of a $2.5 million grant from the One-Time Strategic Community Investment Fund to build a new giraffe barn as part of its conservation efforts and to build innovative lodging that allows guests to interact more freely with the animals in its 30th year of being open to the public. 'It’s apartment-style lodging that will serve as a way for guests to be more deeply engaged with giraffes, A family can rent out the second-floor apartment with windows that look into the giraffe barn. We’re getting lots of excitement around that idea and we think it will be very popular." The Wilds is a private, non-profit safari park and conservation center that combines conservation science and education programs. It sits on more than 10,000 acres and is home to threatened and endangered species." The Wilds also have a new RV campground opening in the spring of 2025, which allows them to bring Muskingum county water to the property for the first time since it began. Currently, outside of the new campground, the Wilds and all its operations use a potable water system. Plans to re-do their high-speed internet network, as well as upgrading roads, parking, and drainage infrastructure are also in the works. https://www.dispatch.com/

Drone shot in today's Dispatch showing the latest superload as it worked its way to Intel. This load arrived at Intel on Tuesday

With construction officially kicking off on the second phase of River and Rich, thought I'd throw this in here: River and Rich Phase 2 More renderings found here: https://www.realmcollaborative.com/work/riverandrichphase2

Medical expansion drives Gahanna's Crescent project as doctors seek proximity to Intel Years in the making, the 112-acre mixed-use Crescent at Central Park development in Gahanna at the southeast intersection of Hamilton Road and Interstate 270 is taking clear shape with a large lineup of medical offices, soon to be followed by apartments, retail and a gas station. In the past few years, several medical buildings have opened including Central Ohio Urology, Walnut Creek Wellness Center, Walnut Creek Surgical Suites, and a multi-tenant office medical office building. Today, construction is well underway on two more medical buildings. Canini also expects to break ground soon on an 11,000-square-foot medical building for a tenant he can't identify yet. Casto has started turning ground for the residential portion of Crescent: the 294-unit Crescent Woods Apartments. The development will include one- and two-bedroom garden apartments and two- and three-bedroom townhomes. Canini said he also expects a 15,000-square-foot retail center to be built near the corner of Hamilton and Tech Center. Sheetz has also submitted plans to the city for a gas station at Tech Center Drive and Hamilton Road. https://www.dispatch.com/story/business/real-estate/2024/06/27/crescent-at-central-park-development-in-gahanna-grows-with-medical/74127742007/

Columbus mayor unveils $1.99 billion capital budget "In what the city is calling the largest in its history, Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther proposed uses for the $1.99 billion 2024 capital budget Wednesday. Some of the major items allocated in the budget include $104 million for the construction of new affordable homes as well as support for those experiencing homelessness. Another $150 million is designated for a new Franklin County Municipal Court building and $50 million to construct the Real Time Crime Center and Public Safety Campus." https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/columbus/columbus-mayor-unveils-1-99-million-capital-budget/

Homage picks Whittier Peninsula for its new offices, studio "Homage is adding new offices to go with its new sales and new investment. The Columbus-based retailer is moving its headquarters and leadership team into a new space on the Whittier Peninsula near the Scioto Audubon Metro Park. The 10,000-square-foot office at 528 Maier Place will hold more than 40 Homage employees, a new and expanded photo studio and an archive of vintage clothing and memorabilia. Homage is the third notable addition to the Maier Place building neighboring the park. Nocterra Brewing is opening a new taproom and restaurant there, Roto is opening an experiential museum and the Bloc Garten climbing gym already operates there. Homage, which employs nearly 160, will continue to operate the 40,000-square-foot facility it has near John Glenn International Airport for production and distribution." https://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2024/06/26/homage-picks-whittier-peninsula-for-its-new-office.html

Nocterra Brewing ready to open its Scioto Audubon taproom and restaurant "For its new location, it’s bringing the beer while letting the Scioto Audubon Metro Park provide the outside. The Powell-based craft brewery is getting ready to open its new location at 516 Maier Place. The 5,000-square-foot restaurant and taproom not only brings Nocterra to a new local neighborhood, it also will help bring its brand to life. The Scioto Trail runs along the building and Scioto Audubon’s amenities, including its outdoor climbing wall and dog park, are right there as well. The 5,000-square-foot space seats more than 300 between its first floor, mezzanine and patio." https://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2024/06/25/nocterra-brewing-scioto-audubon-taproom-open.html

Columbus College of Art and Design's latest project is moving forward "CCAD plans to turn Battelle Hall into a new Center for Creative Collaboration. The existing building will get interior renovations and technology updates, while a two-story, 10,000-square-foot addition will be built on the adjacent parking lot. An urban park also will be added as part of the project. Downtown Commission approved the design at their meeting on Tuesday, clearing the way for the project to begin this year. The Center for Creative Collaboration project is expected to cost about $15 million. Costs not covered by a CCAD fundraising campaign will come from other college funds, including the sale of 161 N. Grant Ave. to the Columbus Fashion Alliance, CCAD President Melanie Corn previously told Columbus Business First. https://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2024/06/25/center-for-creative-collaboration.html

Denver-based Vantage Data Centers plans to develop data center campus in Silicon Heartland Innovation Park "A developer of "hyperscale" data center campuses that recently raised $9.2 billion for global expansion plans to add to New Albany's cloud computing boom. Vantage Data Centers plans a $185 million project at 3475 Horizon Ct., according to One Columbus and the Ohio Department of Development. That's inside the new tech- and logistics-focused Silicon Heartland Innovation Park. Based in Denver with a Silicon Valley office, Vantage develops and operates 25 large-scale data center campuses across five continents. Its clients include cloud computing providers and corporations. The overall development could grow to $400 million, the developer said. The 190-acre site surrounds a new road called Horizon Court near the intersection of Jug Street and Beech Road Northwest, east of New Albany International Business Park." https://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2024/06/25/vantage-data-centers-new-albany.html

Apartment development on McNaughten Road finally approved A 296-unit apartment complex at 198 McNaughten Road on the Far East Side that has been nearly five years in the making was approved by Columbus City Council last night. "Council voted 7-1 to change the zoning for the apartment complex, which has been reduced in size from its original plan. Councilmember Emmanuel Remy voted no, and Councilmember Shayla Favor was absent. Councilmembers said the apartment complex developer will install new sidewalks along part of McNaughten, and the city is planning road improvements, including turning lanes." https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/local/2024/06/25/columbus-city-council-approves-more-aid-to-people-displaced-by-sudden-apartment-complex-closures/74171824007/

5C Data Centers announces 200MW campus in Columbus "5C Data Centers, a recently launched Canadian operator, announced this week it had acquired a live data center and plans to develop it into a campus named CMH01. The precise location, seller, and terms of the deal were not shared. Located in one of the fastest growing data center markets in North America, the acquired site encompasses over 1,742,400 square feet of land with a live 66,000 square foot data center. With plans to expand to an additional 320,000 square feet of data center capacity in the next development phase, the site will offer a significant opportunity for 5CDC to deliver data center capacity for high-performance applications to hyperscale, AI and cloud customers. The site will feature 42 data halls optimized to accommodate average densities of more than 100kW per rack. CMH01 is powered by its own substation served by First Energy." https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/5c-data-centers-announces-200mw-campus-in-columbus-ohio/

Intel fueling Licking’s growth "The rest of the country is becoming familiar with Licking County, as Intel related growth continues to push the area into unprecedented lofty rankings. The latest is Licking County’s 10th place ranking in the nation for industrial space under construction among the largest 100 U.S. submarkets, according to data from Commercial-Search, an online marketplace for commercial real estate. Licking County is the fourth largest submarket of Columbus. Licking County has 2.9 million square feet under construction, and has the third highest growth rate among the top 100 U.S. submarkets, with 8% of its existing industrial real estate under construction. Licking County also has about 2.15 million square feet of speculative space under construction after completion of about 4.35 million square feet of speculative construction in the past 18 months, Fitzsimmons said. CommercialSearch states that Intel’s announcement “marked a pivotal moment in the Midwest’s resurgence as a manufacturing powerhouse. Since then, the ripple effect on Licking County’s industrial development has become increasingly apparent.” O’Neill said Southgate Corp.’s efforts in the Etna Corporate Park and the Pataskala Corporate Park have also added to the county’s industrial developments. The Etna Corporate Park started with 420 acres, but combined with the Pataskala Corporate Park, there is more than 1,000 acres, he said. “Southgate began developing it in 2000,” O’Neill said. “We didn’t envision it growing the way it has. As Columbus grew, it really expanded to the east.” https://www.dispatch.com/

Hebron approves Microsoft plan for data center development "The village of Hebron and Microsoft have finalized an agreement for the technology giant to build up to six data center buildings on more than 200 acres west of Ohio 79, between North High Street and Canyon Road. The development, which will employ at least 30 people per building, will be constructed in phases of one or two buildings at a time, Mayor Valerie Mockus said. Each building is estimated to have an investment of $500 million, meaning if the project is fully built the village could see an investment of $3 billion. The first data centers likely won't begin operating until 2026 or 2027, the mayor said. The agreement commits Microsoft to paying for road improvements on High Street, Enterprise Drive and Canyon Road, which will be extended from the end at Refugee Road to U.S. 40, a distance of about one-half mile." https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/local/2024/06/16/deal-sets-up-licking-county-hebron-for-billions-in-microsoft-data-center-investment/74102215007/

State projections show that Columbus is in the driver's seat for employment growth "Columbus is projected to lead Ohio's employment growth into the next decade, with increases of more than 20% in two job sectors. The Columbus metropolitan statistical area is estimated to grow its 2020 employment by 9.4% in 2030, from 1.09 million to 1.19 million, according to data from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. Big gains are projected in healthcare support and personal care and service occupations, in particular, at 25% and 22%, respectively. Food preparation and serving was close behind at 19%. Overall, Columbus outpaces Cincinnati (6%) and Cleveland (4.5%), as well as every other metro included in the analysis, including Dayton (4.9%)." https://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2024/06/13/central-ohio-employment-growth-2020-2030.html

M/I Homes proposes new townhome development in Dublin "Central Ohio's largest homebuilder is planning a new project in Dublin. M/I Homes filed a proposal with the city for Townes at Tuttle, a 126-unit townhome development at the southwest corner of Tuttle Crossing Boulevard and Hirth Road. The seller of the property is retaining approximately 6 acres north of the project area for a potential commercial development, according to the proposal. In addition, more than 45% of the site will be dedicated to open space." https://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2024/06/14/m-i-homes-townes-at-tuttle-townhomes-dublin-ohio.html

A little more from the Dispatch... Intel's first 'extra-large' super load is coming to central Ohio. Expect 'significant' traffic A convoy carrying a "super load" that's roughly the length of a football field and weighs as much as 76 elephants will start moving toward central Ohio on Sunday. The Ohio Department of Transportation is moving an air processor known as a "cold box" from Manchester, Ohio to the site of the future Intel plant in New Albany over the course of next week, with stops in West Portsmouth, Lucasville, Waverly, Chillicothe, Rickenbacker, Groveport, Pickerington and Pataskala. The cold box is 23 feet tall, 20 feet wide, 280 feet long and weighs 916,000 pounds. It's the first of four "extra-large" super loads to head to the plant, and the twelfth of nearly two dozen super loads to hit Ohio's roadways. Its nine-day journey will come to an end on June 23. ODOT also anticipates large crowds will gather to watch the load, increasing traffic delays. The load will have "significant" traffic impacts, and ODOT encourages drivers to plan ahead to avoid the load's route when it's moving. https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/local/2024/06/11/intel-super-load-to-move-through-central-ohio-starting-sunday/74057074007/

100 affordable housing units proposed for Reynoldsburg with shops, rooftop recreation "Mayor Joe Begeny is announcing the proposal of selling city land to the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority to build 100 new affordable housing units along East Main Street at Monday's City Council meeting. Mayor Begeny said the city bought the lot across the street from City Hall back in 2021 for $2 million. City leaders demolished a PNC Bank on the site. He's now proposing to sell to CMHA for $1,500,000 to break ground on the $30 million project. The complex is proposed to be four stories with retail on the ground floor and recreation on the rooftop. The median income of those who could qualify are those who make $40,000 a year. If City Council approves the land sale, CMHA could break ground in early 2025." https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/100-affordable-housing-units-proposed-for-reynoldsburg-with-shops-rooftop-recreation

Thrive Cos. planning 350 apartments near New Albany "Thrive Cos. will start work on its first suburban project this fall. Columbus-based Thrive Cos. plans to buy vacant land from the New Albany Co. to build a $70 million multifamily project. Columbus City Council approved rezoning of the site on Monday. Although the 7745 Walton Pkwy. site falls under the city of Columbus' jurisdiction and any school-aged children living there would go to Columbus City Schools, it's just a mile from New Albany's downtown. Thrive Cos. also is working to buy other land nearby for future phases, including a mixed-use project with retail, office and amenities such as the Little Grand Market being built at Grandview Crossing. The developer plans to close on the 7745 Walton Pkwy. site in September and start site work in October. Apartments could be finished in early 2026, Zeppernick said." https://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2024/06/11/moores-edge.html

A little more about the next few mega loads... LOAD 12 TO NEW ALBANY – MEGA LOAD 1 The first of the four mega loads is scheduled to begin moving Sunday, June 16. These extra-large loads will have significant traffic impacts as they move. Unlike the previous loads, these will take more than a week to deliver and will travel much slower, with an average speed of 2-3 mph and a maximum speed of approximately 10 mph. Motorists are strongly encouraged to plan ahead and avoid the route while the load is moving. Cargo: Recti Box (Cold Box) Height: 22’ 9″ Width: 19’ 9″ Length: 278’ 2″ Weight: 915,546 pounds https://siliconheartland.newalbanyohio.org/2024/04/10/upcoming-superload-deliveries/

First of four extra-large "super loads" to move to central Ohio "The twelfth of nearly two dozen “super loads,” and first of four loads that exceed 900,000 pounds, will depart the dock site in Adams County on Sunday, June 16. The convoy will head to New Albany to deliver the load to the site of the new Intel plant in Licking County. This load, an air processor known as a cold box used in the silicon chip manufacturing process, measures approximately 23’ tall, 20’ wide, 280’ long, and weighs 916,000 pounds. These extra-large loads will have significant traffic impacts as they move. Unlike the previous loads, these will take more than a week to deliver and will travel much slower. Motorists are strongly encouraged to plan ahead and avoid the route while the load is moving. Due to the size of the loads and slow speed of the convoy, moves will begin earlier than previous trips to ensure each move can be completed during daylight hours." https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/OHDOT/bulletins/39dd3e2

Mountain bike trail planned in Gahanna "The trail is expected to open at Academy Park, located at 1201 Cherry Bottom Road, later this year, according to a Gahanna spokesperson who said the city is reviewing the location’s permit. The city anticipates construction will start this summer. The multi-directional trail is 2.8 miles long with five raised, wooden structures throughout designed for mountain biking. The structures feature small hills and paths in a zigzag for bikers. The structures range from 31 feet to 57 feet long, and are raised 1-2 feet off the ground. Updates to the park will also provide users a dedicated location to “prepare for their ride, rest and rehydrate,” according to a city ordinance. Gahanna also has a 10-foot multiuse trail in the works. The “Link to Literacy” trail will connect North Hamilton Road near Gahanna Lincoln High School to the Columbus Metropolitan Library’s Gahanna Branch and the Creekside District, where there are existing trails." https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/gahanna/mountain-bike-trail-planned-for-gahanna/

The Galaxy at Polaris development taking shape, with apartments, restaurants and more "One year into construction, The Galaxy at Polaris development is taking clear shape on the former Germain Amphitheater site east of Ikea in the Polaris area. When completed, the 30-acre site is expected to include more than 600 apartments, several restaurants and entertainment destinations, some offices, a pond, 10 acres of green space, and, in a nod to the property's past, a modest amphitheater. Work began last June on the $145 million first phase, which will include a six-story building with 289 apartments and a 737-space parking garage, in addition to a 25,000-square-foot Puttshack "indoor tech-infused mini-golf," about a dozen pickleball courts with a café, a quick-service restaurant and spots for additional restaurants and commercial venues." https://www.dispatch.com/story/business/real-estate/2024/06/05/galaxy-at-polaris-columbus-apartments-germain-amphitheater/73906662007/