In a concerted effort to bolster community well-being, the City of Columbus has expanded its Clean and Safe Corridors Initiative to include three additional neighborhoods: Long Street in the King-Lincoln District, Refugee Road on the Southeast side, and State Route 161 (Dublin-Granville Road) in Northland. This initiative, initially launched in 2025, represents a collaborative approach to addressing neighborhood needs by combining public safety measures, sanitation efforts, and economic development activities.
Building on Previous Success
The first year of the initiative targeted four corridors: Parsons Avenue, Sullivant Avenue, Livingston Avenue, and North High Street. The results were noteworthy, including 46 felony arrests, the removal of over 55 tons of litter and bulk trash, and direct engagement with more than 400 businesses. Encouraged by these outcomes, the city is now extending its focus to the newly selected areas.
Community Partnerships and Focus Areas
Each of the new corridors will benefit from a $50,000 microgrant, administered by trusted community partners:
- Long Street in the King-Lincoln Bronzeville District: Partnering with the Columbus Urban League, the focus will be on small business grants and promoting homeownership.
- State Route 161 in Northland: Collaborating with Elevate Northland, efforts will concentrate on traffic improvements, including sidewalks and signage.
- Refugee Road on the Southeast side: In partnership with City of Refuge and the Good Life Foundation, the emphasis will be on education and entrepreneurship.
These partnerships aim to tailor solutions to the unique needs of each community, fostering safer streets, stronger businesses, and neighborhoods where residents take pride in their surroundings.
Selection Criteria and Future Plans
The corridors were selected based on community input, 311 reports, engagement with area business owners, and alignment with key city priorities, including support for historically significant neighborhoods and growing commercial areas. Street repair and cleanup projects have already commenced in the King-Lincoln District, with work scheduled to begin in the Refugee Road area in May and along State Route 161 in July.
Mayor Andrew J. Ginther emphasized the initiative’s commitment to collaboration and tangible results, stating, “This initiative is about showing up, working together, and delivering real results—safer streets, stronger businesses, and neighborhoods where every resident takes pride in where they live.”
As the Clean and Safe Corridors Initiative progresses, the city remains dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all Columbus residents through coordinated efforts and community partnerships.