Columbus Local Pulse

Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Saturday, August second. The sun is rising on a clear start and we are waking up to a mild sixty degrees, moving toward a high near eighty. Dry skies continue today, so grab your sunglasses if you are heading out. The sunny pattern looks to hold through Sunday, with just a slight uptick in humidity.

We begin with breaking news on the roads. A surge in deadly accidents over the past week has shaken our community, with at least five lives lost across the city, according to WSYX. Columbus police are rolling out a major traffic enforcement effort, targeting high-risk intersections, including Hamilton and Refugee Roads. Officers and bike patrols will be visible today, especially near school zones as students get set to return. The Vision Zero initiative is ramping up, and drivers can expect more speed checks and immediate warnings.

Staying with public safety, there was a shooting late last night in southwest Columbus, leaving one person critically injured. Police confirm this was near Harrisburg Pike and are seeking tips from anyone who saw something. The Office of Violence Prevention just launched a citywide safety campaign aiming to reduce incidents like these, focusing on conflict resolution and youth outreach. On a lighter note, after heavy flooding in Fairfield County earlier this week, a dog reported missing has been reunited with its family, bringing smiles all around.

Turning to city hall, council is debating new rules for e-scooters and bikes downtown. If approved, speed limits will drop and parking zones will be added on Broad and High Streets. The Hilltop neighborhood is in the spotlight as newly developed affordable homes open for viewing. Reaction is mixed, with some neighbors excited for improved housing, others concerned about rising prices.

Real estate trends show steady momentum, with average home prices up about four percent this summer. On the jobs front, Columbus Area Chamber is reporting more than eight hundred new openings this week, especially in logistics, healthcare, and IT. Downtown, a new food hall is opening next week near the Arena District, bringing jobs and new flavors.

For community events, the Columbus Jazz and Ribs Fest is in full swing at Bicentennial Park through Sunday. The Dublin Irish Festival kicks off tonight, with police adding patrols after a recent spike in car break-ins near festival parking lots. Families can also check out the Ohio State Fair, now halfway through its run.

On the sports scene, excitement is building as Ohio State Buckeyes football kicks off fall camp. The big storyline is the quarterback competition, with both Lincoln Kienholz and Julian Sayin battling for the starting job. In youth sports, though with some disappointment, Hilltop Tigers Youth Soccer Club has shut down, citing lack of funding from city and state. Meanwhile, Columbus is set to become home to a new UFL football team in twenty twenty-six, after months of speculation.

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Friday, August 1, 2025.

We wake up today to clear skies over Columbus and a comfortable 61 degrees downtown. Expect a pleasant Friday with highs near 80 under partly sunny skies and light breezes, so it is a perfect opener for August. The weekend will stay mild with highs in the upper 70s to low 80s, a welcome change after last week’s storms. Some neighborhoods are still cleaning up from flooding, but the outlook suggests no additional rain today, a relief for recovery efforts and for anyone planning to be outside.

The big breaking story this morning comes from the Hilltop, where several teenagers were injured in a drive-by shooting on South Oakley Avenue late last night. One young person remains hospitalized. Columbus Police are investigating and ask anyone with information to contact the Office of Violence Prevention, which just launched a new citywide safety push this week. Meanwhile, city leaders are also expanding the neighborhood violence intervention program after Columbus City Council approved more funding Monday. Public safety is clearly front and center right now, especially as officers step up patrols with the start of another busy weekend.

On the topic of neighborhood changes, affordable housing continues to spark passionate debate. The Central Ohio Community Land Trust is preparing to sell a handful of new homes in the Hilltop for less than two hundred thousand dollars—a rare price in today’s market. These properties, some with privacy fences and detached garages, are coming to side lots between South Oakley and Lechner Avenue. While the Trust says it’s helping first-time buyers with big discounts, a few local residents say they feel their privacy is threatened by new arrivals. Still, with 36 buyers already selected for the latest build and the city targeting at least six thousand new homes this year, the push to tackle the housing shortage is not slowing down. Mayor Ginther reminds us the goal remains one hundred thousand new homes over the next decade, aiming to bring down housing costs and stabilize neighborhoods.

Downtown, there is business news as the Microsoft data centers project in Licking County gets a billion-dollar push-back, delaying its timeline. Meanwhile, small businesses are bracing for the two-week back-to-school sales tax holiday. Shoppers can save on clothing, school supplies, and even some electronics through August 14, up to five hundred dollars per item. This is one of the state’s biggest efforts yet to help families manage costs before classes begin.

In job news, hiring remains steady, especially in construction and logistics. Intel says its chip production plans in New Albany remain on track despite supply chain delays, which could mean hundreds of new jobs heading into the fall.

Let’s talk sports—Ohio State football kicked off fall camp yesterday, with excitement and a bit of uncertainty as Coach Ryan Day leads 120 players onto the field. The Buckeyes bring

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Thursday, July 31, 2025. We start our day with breaking news from Polaris Parkway, where a tragic accident has claimed the life of a pedestrian. The incident took place last night just after 9:45 in the 1300 block near Polaris Fashion Place. According to Columbus police, the driver of the vehicle remained at the scene, and the investigation continues as the community mourns this loss.

Turning to weather, we are waking up under clear skies with temperatures in the mid-70s. We can expect a high around 77 today before dipping to the lower 60s tonight. It is shaping up to be a comfortable day, perfect for outdoor activities, and with no storms on the horizon, the good weather should hold through the weekend.

City Hall is asking for our input this week. There is a push to improve our public education about stormwater runoff, a problem that impacts our rivers and lakes across Columbus. Residents are encouraged to participate in the city's new online stormwater survey, available in both English and Spanish. The city is counting on our feedback to help keep our water clean.

In economic news, the annual Columbus Opportunity Summit just wrapped up, with big excitement around the new Anduril Arsenal-1 drone production complex coming to Pickaway County south of the city. The California-based company plans to invest nearly one billion dollars, promising to bring 4,000 new jobs to Central Ohio over the next decade, alongside 4,500 more positions at businesses supporting the project. They are already hiring for manufacturing roles, so anyone interested in joining a growing defense and technology sector should keep an eye out.

On the food access front, a north Columbus food pantry is facing eviction, a harsh blow as demand from residents continues to climb. The organization and its supporters are searching for solutions as they try to keep serving our neighbors in need. It is an important reminder of the ongoing food insecurity many local families face.

Switching to real estate, the Franklin County Economic Development and Planning Department is inviting public input on significant amendments to its annual action plans, aiming to unlock funding for homeownership and affordable housing programs. Residents can review the plans through August and attend a public hearing downtown at the Michael J. Dorrian Building on South High Street next Wednesday.

In the world of business, dessert lovers can look forward to something sweet—Coldstone Creamery is set to open soon in the Short North, joining the area’s growing list of late-night and specialty dining options. Borgata Pizza is also bringing late-night slices to Old North Arcade, signaling ongoing momentum for local restaurant and nightlife scenes.

For schools, Wellington welcomes its new Head of School this month, marking a historic first for this independent institution. In Columbus City Schools, discussions continue about the future for five schools facing possib

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Sunday, July 27, 2025. We hope you're enjoying your weekend as we bring you the top stories, updates, and happenings shaping Columbus right now.

Let's start with breaking news. Overnight, a person was left in critical condition after a hit-and-run at the intersection of South High Street and Jenkins Avenue on the city's south side. Authorities are still searching for the driver who left the scene. The victim is being treated at the hospital, and police are asking anyone with information to come forward. Also, a multi-county police chase that started in Columbus wrapped up on I-70 in Clark County last night. One person is now in custody, and details on what sparked the pursuit are still coming in.

Tragedy struck on Hanford Street early Saturday evening after a four-year-old suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Columbus Police say the boy was stable after being taken to Nationwide Children's Hospital, and the case brings renewed attention to gun safety at home.

In another development, two men have been indicted in connection to a fatal shooting that took place in southeast Columbus last year, and a separate indictment was handed down for a man charged in the death of a woman in northwest Columbus. Safety continues to be top of mind for many of our neighborhoods.

Turning to the skies, we are waking up to cloudy and muggy conditions as storms from last night linger into the early morning. Expect periods of rain to return by late afternoon, especially if you plan on being at outdoor markets or community barbecues. Temperatures will top out near 83, with higher humidity and spotty thunderstorms moving through into the evening. If you’re heading to the Scioto Mile or the North Market, keep an umbrella close just in case, but tomorrow is looking a bit drier.

City Hall and local leaders continue to grapple with the impact of rising property taxes, a concern many homeowners are feeling this month. Regional planners are also debating transit and new development, with the Central Ohio Transit Authority reporting a significant uptick in bus ridership for the first half of the year.

On the business front, Way Down Yonder, the New Orleans-style bakery downtown, closed its doors after three years, while the much-anticipated Astra Rooftop just opened at the Downtown Hilton, offering a new spot for evening views and cocktails. Chapman’s Eat Market in German Village will be closing in August, while longtime favorite Marino’s Seafood on the west side served its final meal last week. But seafood fans will be happy to know a new restaurant is already preparing to open in that space.

In real estate, recent reports suggest that average rents across Columbus have inched downward for the first time this summer, providing at least brief relief for renters following several years of sharp increases.

Job seekers take note: the next big Columbus Career Fair is set for August 28 at the Crowne Plaza in Worthington, wh

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Saturday, July twenty-sixth, and thanks for making us part of your weekend.

We start with breaking news on the public safety front. Columbus police have announced an arrest in a cold case that began with a parking dispute back in 2020. Joseph Allen Fleshman, age thirty-six, has been charged with the shooting death of Deangelo Cummings on his own porch on East Hudson Street. This tragic case has weighed heavily on the Linden neighborhood, with investigators saying it stemmed from an argument between neighbors. Fleshman, who is related to one of the neighbors involved, is expected in Franklin County Municipal Court today. In other crime news, the New Rome Motel in Prairie Township has been ordered closed while county officials address a spike in criminal activity at the location.

Now, let’s talk weather. We woke up to partly cloudy skies this morning, and we’re expecting things to heat up fast. Highs today should reach the lower nineties, so if you’re heading out early for errands or a walk in Goodale Park, bring your sunscreen and some water. A few clouds will drift by, but rain should hold off. Looking ahead, Sunday will cool down just a little, with highs in the upper eighties and a small chance for evening storms.

Our city continues to change and grow on the business front. Exciting news for fans of fast food—Layne's Chicken Fingers, a Texas favorite, is coming to Central Ohio with plans to open twenty-two locations. The first spots are breaking ground around Polaris Parkway and Easton this fall. Meanwhile, the local job market stays strong, especially with construction ramping up on the massive Honda and LG battery factory southwest of the city. That plant is set to bring over two thousand permanent jobs to the area when it opens later this year.

On the housing market, Columbus keeps breaking records. Demand remains high for both rentals and new homes, and neighborhoods like Grandview and New Albany are seeing prices climb. Experts say the region could keep growing by over a million residents in the next twenty years.

Looking to get involved this weekend? The Dublin Police are hosting a prescription drug take-back today at the Justice Center on Commerce Parkway. It runs until 1 p.m. and is a simple way to keep your home safe from unused medications. If you love urban farming, check out the lively grand opening of the New American Community Garden and Farm Stand at the YMCA North. Fresh produce and local crafts will be on sale all morning.

In culture and community, Columbus remains vibrant. The Short North is buzzing tonight with live music, and a special mural dedication is happening on High Street. Families can head to Scioto Mile for the last few days of the summer fountain festival.

Our local schools are celebrating student athletes, with the Columbus Eagles girls’ soccer team securing their spot in the state semis. And in education leadership, Wellington has just named its first woman H

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Friday, July 25, 2025.

We start today with breaking news from Morse Road, where Columbus police are investigating a fatal shooting from Thursday night. Around 7:45 p.m., officers responded to the 1400 block after reports of gunfire. They found a man with a gunshot wound and a firearm nearby. The man was taken to the hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after. No word yet if the shooting was self-inflicted or if someone else was involved, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Elsewhere in northeast Columbus, a tragedy struck as one person drowned in a residential pool on Thursday afternoon. First responders arrived quickly, but sadly, the individual could not be revived.

On a lighter note, our weather today is clear and warm, with high temperatures reaching the upper eighties and low humidity giving us a break from the sticky heat. Plan for a hot one if you’re heading outside, but the evening should cool off nicely, perfect for some Friday night activities.

City Hall is making waves this week with a proposal for five million dollars aimed at corridor improvements and safety upgrades along several major routes, including Livingston and Parsons. The mayor says these investments will target both traffic flow and pedestrian safety, and council is expected to debate the measure in the coming weeks.

In real estate, there is big news for anyone looking for a new home or thinking about downsizing. PulteGroup’s Del Webb has announced not one, but two new active adult communities on tap for the Columbus region, including Del Webb Explore at Northstar just north of Polaris and Del Webb Maygrass in Plain City. These communities will offer single-story homes, with options to expand, and both developments will begin sales in early spring next year. The move signals a growing demand for 55-plus living across Central Ohio.

If job hunting is on your mind, Easton Town Center continues its expansion streak. Several new stores have opened in recent days, including Princess Polly, Altar’d State, and Carhartt, bringing fresh job opportunities across retail and dining. Voodoo Brewing Co. is also set for its grand opening soon, promising new roles for local beer lovers and hospitality staff.

Music and the arts are alive this weekend, with the Ohio State Fair ramping up on the north side. Keep an eye out for a special event with Ohio’s First Lady Fran DeWine and Usha Vance making an appearance, highlighting agriculture and community.

In community sports, Olentangy School Board gets a thumbs up from families after approving a 235 million dollar bond issue for new school buildings, with no tax increase.

Turning to recent incidents, Thursday saw a hit-and-run crash at the Etna intersection blamed on overgrown weeds blocking drivers’ views. Public works has responded and cleanup is already underway to improve safety. Over in the Cottage Avenue area, police responded to a property-damage accid

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Thursday, July 24, 2025.

We wake up today under a heat advisory for Franklin County, and in response, the Central Ohio Transit Authority is waiving all fares on buses and transit for the entire day. This is part of an effort to help everyone stay cool and safe. If you need relief, remember that cooling centers, libraries, and rec centers throughout the city are open and available. COTA Customer Care is ready to help at 614-228-1776. Now for the forecast: we’re looking at a high of around 92 degrees and a sweltering night with temperatures staying in the mid-70s. The heat wave isn’t letting up, so stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities when possible.

Today marks the official opening of the 170th Ohio State Fair up at the Expo Center, and despite some ongoing renovations, the full fair experience is in full swing. Gates open early for livestock competitions in the Voinovich Livestock Center, and later today there’s plenty to enjoy, from paint competitions in the Cox Fine Arts Center to magic shows, and live music, including KIDZ BOP LIVE in the Celeste Center tonight. The Natural Resources Park is packed with outdoor fun, and new accessibility features this year include sensory-friendly mornings and charging stations for mobility devices. The fair runs through August 3, so make your plans, but don’t forget it’ll be hot on the fairgrounds too.

Big moves in Columbus business news, CVS Health just opened its Workforce Innovation and Talent Center at the Rosewind Community Center. This new facility offers free training in pharmacy, customer service, and retail—all designed to open career paths for local residents. Partnerships with groups like Eckerd Connects and Columbus State mean more opportunities for job seekers to build skills, with participants even guaranteed job interviews with CVS. The center is open to everyone and includes access to public health services at Aetna’s new Community Resource Center.

In real estate, Polaris Fashion Place has a new owner after challenges faced by its previous management, which could bring new energy and changes to the area. Over in New Albany, the housing market keeps expanding as a new community two years in the making opens reservations, and the downtown commission is considering plans for a new apartment complex called Opportunity Pointe in partnership with Columbus State Community College. There’s also development interest in a large agricultural property for a potential data center.

From city hall, city leaders are reviewing a proposed income tax increase in Obetz for public safety services. Meanwhile, in education, Westerville Schools have voted to put an income tax levy on November’s ballot, keeping public funding in the headlines as back-to-school season approaches.

Quickly turning to local sports, Ohio State football is launching pre-season camp with strong hopes to shape a new legacy, and community sports fields are buzzing with youth tournaments

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Sunday, July 20, 2025.

We wake up today under mostly cloudy skies with a comfortable temperature around 73 degrees. Expect a high of 85 this afternoon, and a chance for a shower or two especially if you plan to head downtown or enjoy any of the many summer events. The outlook for early next week stays mild, with highs in the low eighties, so it’s a good stretch for outdoor plans.

Thousands are converging on the Scioto Mile as the Columbus Jazz and Rib Fest wraps up its final day. Even though passing rain threatened to dampen spirits, vendors and music fans pressed on, enjoying live acts and legendary barbecue along the riverfront. This afternoon’s set list promises both national headliners and local talent, so if you’re in the area between Main Street and Rich Street, expect some road closures and festival crowds. Whether you’re there for the music or the ribs, organizers say umbrellas might not be a bad idea.

Just in time for food lovers, 614 Restaurant Week starts tomorrow and runs through July 26. More than 150 restaurants citywide, from the Short North to German Village, are offering fixed-price three-course menus. It’s a great chance to try that spot you’ve been eyeing or find something new without breaking the bank.

In real estate news, Columbus saw the grand opening of two new affordable housing developments—one at Easton and another in Franklinton. These projects add nearly 300 new units and are welcome news for residents feeling the pinch of rising rents. The latest reports show rents are edging downward for the first time in years. Demand for city apartments remains high, especially near transit lines, but options are broadening for folks looking to stay or move into Columbus.

On the business front, a Spanish-inspired bakery, Tertulia Café, has celebrated its official grand opening in the Short North. Meanwhile, longtime favorite Chapman’s Eat Market in German Village will soon close its doors in August, ending a beloved era for neighborhood dining. Over in Clintonville, Marino’s Seafood wrapped up more than thirty years of service last week. And with every closing comes a fresh start; another seafood place is lined up to take its place.

The job market remains robust with approximately 32,000 open positions ranging from retail at Easton and hospitality downtown, to teaching jobs and public sector work. Pay and benefits are holding steady, and the city says they remain focused on workforce training in new tech and health care roles.

From city hall, capital budget talks continue with residents voicing their hopes for infrastructure upgrades, especially road improvements and more funding for libraries and rec centers. Watch for city crews out on Livingston and High as new repairs get underway.

For sports fans, Little League teams from the West Side advanced in regional play, and Central High celebrated a win in the state softball quarterfinals on Friday.

On a more somber note, Columbu

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Saturday, July 19th, 2025. We’re waking up to partly cloudy skies across our city with the temperature starting out in the high 60s. Keep an umbrella nearby because passing showers could roll through this afternoon, especially in and around downtown. Highs today will push up toward the mid to upper 80s. If you’re planning to get out for any weekend events, expect some muggy air and maybe a quick downpour, but overall most outdoor plans are good to go.

Let’s start with the biggest news overnight. Columbus police are investigating a shooting from early Friday morning on the 300 block of Guilford Avenue. One person is in critical condition and police have detained a suspect as the investigation continues. Just a reminder for all of us to stay alert and look out for one another in our neighborhoods. In another police update, there’s been an arrest in a significant case involving child safety in east Columbus. City officials remind parents to keep watch over kids’ online activities.

From city hall, there’s debate brewing for Monday’s Ohio House session on property tax policy and whether to override some of Governor DeWine’s vetoes. The focus is on who should have the real say over property tax changes—state leaders or local governments. Decisions there could mean future changes for our tax bills and school funding across Columbus.

Now to community happenings and some good news you can taste and hear. The beloved Jazz and Rib Fest is back and bustling all weekend at West Bank Park and Bicentennial Park. Today you can stroll through clouds of mouthwatering barbecue smoke, catch world-class jazz performances, and bring the whole family for free. Remember, there are a few downtown road closures near the riverfront, so plan to park a little farther out and walk in if you can.

If you want something a little different, try cave yoga up at Olentangy Caverns this evening. It’s a unique way to unwind and take in something new with friends or family.

In the local job market, Sarepta Therapeutics has announced they’re laying off about 80 employees statewide in a long-anticipated restructuring. On the bright side, several downtown restaurants are hiring as patios and music return in full swing for festival season.

On the real estate front, vendors and agents report that home prices remain steady, and the number of new listings is holding firm. If you’re in the market, expect the median sale price to hover just under three hundred thousand dollars.

Turning to schools and sports, a shoutout to our local high school summer athletes. The city track meet wrapped up on Thursday with impressive wins for both the Northland and Westerville South teams. And Columbus Crew fans, don’t forget—tonight is a home match at Lower.com Field. Get your tickets early, as it should be a packed and electric crowd.

Before we go, here’s a feel-good story. Ohio State Highway Patrol trooper recently rescued an injured owl on the north si

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Friday, July 18th, 2025.

We’re waking up to a cooler and muggy morning with clouds and scattered light showers across the city. The real story today is the lingering rain after overnight downpours. Buckeye Lake saw roads fully submerged after several inches of rain last night, and while flooding was worst east of us, we’re reminded to watch for high water on local roads—never try to drive through it. Today’s high will stay in the upper seventies, and we’ll have more clouds than sunshine, but we’re expecting humidity to stick around. This pattern will continue into the weekend, with a risk for some more storms both Saturday and Sunday. Keep your umbrella close.

Breaking overnight, a grand jury indicted three people in connection with the deadly shooting near Polaris last month. Columbus police say they’re continuing to increase patrols in that area as a precaution. In other news, a Columbus man was charged with laundering nearly one million dollars in proceeds from an online scam. Police urge residents to be wary of suspicious emails and always confirm before sending payments electronically.

Columbus city government is moving forward with the next phase of its “Zone In” zoning reform, aiming to address affordable housing and allow for more mixed-use developments. City Council also passed an ordinance this week to expand the neighborhood violence intervention program. Residents at the city hall meeting voiced determination to remain engaged in the upcoming capital budget process, wanting more community input in shaping local investments.

Affordable housing is top of mind after two new developments celebrated ribbon cuttings, one in the Easton area and another not far from downtown. On the commercial side, Hudson’s Fish and Chicken is preparing to open on East Hudson Street, and Mikey’s Late Night Slice has announced expansion to Galaxy at Polaris, expected by early next year. Meanwhile, a Clintonville favorite is launching a new food concept at a local brewery, and news is buzzing about a pair of new burger restaurants coming to Central Ohio. Over in real estate, home seller profits continue to defy national trends as the Columbus market remains strong, while a suburban shopping center just sold for nearly 20 million dollars.

We’re keeping an eye on the local job market. A Columbus-based manufacturer just announced plans to boost its workforce by ten percent, and there are new job postings across healthcare, retail, and manufacturing as summer hiring heats up.

Culturally, the city is gearing up for the Jazz and Rib Fest along the Scioto Mile this weekend, always a highlight for foodies and music lovers. Parker McCollum and Cody Johnson are headed to Columbus in the coming months, adding to a packed concert season. And for family fun, the tenth annual Columbus Coffee Festival is set for October, but tickets are already moving fast.

Our schools continue to shine—congratulations to the Columbus rob

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