Ohio Pen - City of Columbus Introduces Proposal to Rezone Additional Parcels

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~ Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther has announced a new proposal to expand the application of new zoning code districts to portions of the S.R. 161/E. Dublin-Granville corridor in the Northland neighborhood. The proposal, which was introduced to Columbus City Council, aims to rezone an additional 165 parcels of land to become part of Title 34 mixed-use zoning districts.

These zoning code districts were first established in 2024 through a multi-phase, multi-year effort called Zone In. This initiative was launched to modernize the city's 70-year-old zoning code, starting with key corridors that have the potential to address housing, mobility, and affordability challenges in Columbus.

According to Mayor Ginther, the Northland community has been consistently supportive of this endeavor and their inclusion in this historic effort is exciting. He also emphasized that this application of the new zoning code along State Route 161 reflects their commitment to embrace new opportunities and ensure that the new code is flexible, inclusive, and addresses the diverse needs of residents and businesses.

The first application of the new zoning code focused on more than 12,300 parcels along 62 sections of corridor throughout the city. This initial action aimed to address housing affordability by unlocking the ability to create an estimated 88,000 new homes over a period of ten years – meeting 44% of the region's housing demand.

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The proposed expansion will rezone sections of S.R. 161 between Worthington City limits and Ponderosa Drive under Title 34. These parcels were determined to meet specific criteria such as capacity for new housing and mixed-use development, proximity to COTA routes and other pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and a need for uniform design standards.

Pat Hammel, vice president of the Northland Community Council expressed her support for these changes stating that it will enable walkable, mixed-use development along designated commercial corridors in Northland. She also highlighted the importance of establishing crucial design standards for successful redevelopment and providing support, certainty, and predictability for existing and future businesses.

On Monday, March 10, City Council will consider a resolution (0030X-2025) to propose the rezoning of the identified sections of S.R. 161 under Title 34. If approved, a 60-day public comment period will begin. Residents are encouraged to visit columbus.gov/zoningupdate to review the proposed changes and submit feedback before the comment period ends on Saturday, May 10. The Zone In website will also provide additional information on upcoming public hearings and community meetings.

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City Council President Pro Tem Rob Dorans, who chairs Council's Zoning Committee, stated that Columbus is facing a housing crisis and this zoning update is another step forward in their commitment to bringing more affordable homes to the city. He believes that by zoning areas like the Northland corridor for walkable, mixed-use development, they are unlocking opportunities for new housing, supporting local businesses, and making it easier for residents to access transit.

Councilmember Emmanuel Remy expressed his gratitude towards the team that worked hard to bring forward a proposal to include the S.R. 161 corridor in the zoning code update. As a resident of Northland himself, he believes that this area deserves the positive ripple-effects that Zone In will bring. He also emphasized that when residents in every neighborhood can easily access transit, local businesses, job centers, and other community services – everyone thrives. He is proud to not only support but champion the inclusion of S.R. 161 in this process.

The proposed expansion of new zoning code districts along S.R. 161 is seen as a crucial step towards addressing housing affordability and promoting economic growth in Columbus. With extensive community engagement and input from residents being incorporated into this proposal, it is expected to have a positive impact on both residents and businesses in Northland.

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