Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Saturday, July 12, 2025.

We wake up to a hot and humid start in Columbus, with temperatures already climbing. The forecast calls for highs in the low 90s today, and we should all be prepared for showers and thunderstorms rolling in this afternoon and evening. There is even a chance for a strong or severe storm, so keep an eye out if you have outdoor plans. The weather pattern continues to be unsettled Sunday, but at least those high temps will ease back towards normal.

Turning to breaking news, police are investigating an early morning shooting near Elbern Avenue and South Ashburton Road on the east side. A woman was critically injured after confronting a suspected thief trying to break into cars. She was transported to Grant Medical Center with life-threatening injuries. No suspect information has been released yet. If you have any tips, the Columbus Division of Police is urging neighbors to come forward.

On a brighter note, the city’s real estate scene is abuzz out in New Albany, where VanTrust Real Estate is set to break ground on its seventh industrial project since 2019. The new 300,000-square-foot facility on Jug Street is expected to bring more jobs and business expansion opportunities to our region. Columbus remains a hotspot for logistics and tech, drawing more interest from national developers and employers.

Council members at City Hall have just approved an ordinance to expand the neighborhood violence intervention program, hoping to build on what officials say is a notable drop in homicides this year. It’s a step that community advocates have been pushing for, aiming for safer blocks across the city.

Downtown, the much-anticipated Astra Rooftop is now open atop the AC Marriott on Park Street. The grand opening saw fire dancers and DJ sets, and diners are already booking up for the city’s new destination for upscale bites and stunning skyline views. Over at Easton Town Center, new stores are drawing shoppers—Bar Italia and Faherty are now open, and Altar’d State is making a splash by supporting local schools with every purchase.

It’s a fantastic weekend for culture lovers too. The Columbus Book Festival is open at Topiary Park, running through Sunday with more than 200 authors, signings, food trucks and live music. Tomorrow, the All Disabilities Festival hosts its annual “Christmas in July” at COSI, bringing families together for activities and community resources.

Sports fans, tonight is the big “Hell is Real” Derby as Columbus Crew faces FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. The Crew are riding high this season and local supporters are making the trip south for what’s sure to be a heated match.

In our schools, Wellington School is celebrating the appointment of a new Head of School, a milestone for their campus. Meanwhile, Columbus City Schools are working on new security solutions after reports of an eighth firearm found on district grounds this year.

Finally, we leave you with a feel-good story: Altar’d State at Easton is more than just a new shop—it’s helping local schools by channeling a portion of grand opening sales directly into school programs, a great reminder of businesses stepping up for our community.

Thank you for listening and remember to subscribe so you never miss a beat of what’s happening right here in Columbus. This has been Columbus Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease dot ai.

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Friday, July eleventh. We’re waking up to fair skies and a warm start, with temperatures heading for a high of around ninety-one degrees. We’ll want to keep water handy and watch for muggy conditions that will stick around into tomorrow. There’s a slight chance of isolated storms mainly north of us late this afternoon, but nothing that should stop most plans in the city. The weekend stays warm, with just a bit of relief by Sunday.

On the crime front, city leaders are spotlighting a positive trend: Columbus is seeing its lowest homicide rate in over a decade, with forty-three homicides so far this year, down from fifty-eight at this time last year, according to city reports. Mayor Andrew Ginther calls it progress, but local advocates remind us that violence among youth and recent high-profile incidents, including last month’s shooting near the Scioto Mile and the Fourth of July party tragedy, show there’s more work ahead to keep our neighborhoods safe. Over half of suspects in serious assaults are just twenty-one or younger, a trend Columbus police say demands renewed community engagement.

In a related development, the city and Franklin County are joining forces with a new Nuisance Abatement Unit, targeting properties connected to crime and public safety risks. They’ve just filed a racketeering suit against Herbert’s Market on Sullivan Avenue, accusing the business of reselling stolen goods and creating a chronic nuisance in the neighborhood. The city attorney’s office says efforts like these are designed to keep our communities safe and hold property owners accountable.

Turning to public safety in other areas, nine Medicaid providers in Columbus have been indicted this week on charges of defrauding the state’s health care program for more than a million dollars. Most of the accused are home-health aides and a mental health specialist charged with billing for services never delivered.

On the jobs and business front, we’re seeing new activity with the re-opening of the California-based Grocery Outlet on Bethel Road, and the iconic Boat House re-opening on the Scioto riverfront. These openings mean dozens of new jobs for local residents, and both locations are quickly becoming popular weekend destinations. Real estate agents report that median home prices in the city are holding steady, with about one thousand homes for sale—great news for those still house hunting as summer hits its peak.

City Hall is in the news as Columbus joins a multi-city lawsuit challenging recent federal policies targeting sanctuary cities, underscoring our local commitment to supporting immigrant communities. City officials are also touting the rollout of new water meters as a success, despite a few reports of minor flooding in some neighborhoods. If you live in the Hilltop or Linden, the city is asking you to double-check your meter box and contact the utilities department if you spot pooling water.

For culture and entertainment, Bastille Day brings a burst of French flair to downtown this Saturday, with events and food trucks popping up near the Main Street bridge and Bicentennial Park. Local teens are launching an anti-violence campaign this weekend, planning rallies and art installations on Cleveland Avenue. And for music lovers, the All-Star Futures Game on Sunday at Huntington Park will feature two Columbus natives, C J Kayfus and Parker Messick—rising stars to watch.

In schools, several Columbus District high schoolers took top honors at the state robotics competition—congratulations to our young tech trailblazers. And speaking of winning, a Columbus couple on the south side just won over one and a half million dollars in the Queen of Hearts jackpot, sparking a wave of excitement for local lottery fans.

One last feel-good story as we head into the weekend: Community volunteers from Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children have been out every day, working to prevent youth violence. Their dedication reminds us of the power we have when we look out for one another.

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Thursday, July 10, 2025.

We’re starting with breaking news near Polaris, where one man has died after a shooting at an apartment complex last night. The incident spilled into the Target parking lot nearby. Columbus police are actively investigating, and they’ve confirmed that the man died from a gunshot wound. The suspect remains at large at this hour, so if you were in the area of Polaris Parkway and saw anything unusual, please contact the Columbus Division of Police.

Turning to another major development, two arrests have been made this week in connection to recent shootings across the city. In west Columbus, 18-year-old Keyshaun Harper is now charged with murder after the July 5 shooting that killed 32-year-old Shaunquan Walker. Meanwhile, 33-year-old Toreal Crawford was arrested for a separate fatal shooting on Oakland Park Avenue, the same road where, just overnight, two people were injured when shots were fired into the Oakland Park Bar and Grill. Both victims are now stable, and police recovered a firearm at the scene. Officers moved quickly, apprehending the suspect after a short pursuit that ended in a crash in a roundabout median.

Public safety is also the focus on our city’s transit system. The Columbus Division of Police is searching for a group of teenagers responsible for several assaults and disturbances on COTA buses in recent days. Authorities urge anyone with information to reach out and help keep our buses safe.

Now to City Hall. The search for a new police chief continues, with a community forum this week giving residents a voice in the selection process. City leaders are emphasizing transparency and public input as they look for a chief who will prioritize safety and community relations.

The weather is giving us a break from recent storms, with a sunny start this morning and highs climbing to about 89 by late afternoon. Expect a mix of sun and clouds and a slight breeze, but watch for a chance of thunderstorms as we head into Saturday. If you’re planning outdoor activities, especially on Friday or over the weekend, keep an eye on weather updates.

In the business and job market, affordable housing is getting a boost as the new Starling Yard apartments open in the Short North, bringing over 250 new units to the area. There’s also a major win for advanced manufacturing, with the state awarding a $310 million contract to a Columbus-based defense contractor, expected to secure or create around 4,000 jobs.

On the cultural front, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra welcomes Maureen O’Connor as its new CEO. Plans are advancing for a new downtown music center, promising more live events and expanded community arts programming.

Looking ahead, this weekend features the annual Community Music Festival at Goodale Park, with local bands, food trucks, and family activities. And a quick shoutout to our student athletes: Columbus City Schools celebrated record graduation rates this year, and the Northland Vikings took home the city championship in baseball last night.

For a feel-good update, Columbus neighbors near Parsons Avenue banded together this week after a construction site posed a danger to kids. After a neighbor posted a warning online and worked with city crews, new fencing was installed within 24 hours, preventing more close calls and underscoring the power of community action.

Thanks for tuning in and being part of our Columbus story. Subscribe to stay connected, and share your local stories with us. This has been Columbus Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai.

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Wednesday, July 9, 2025.

We start with breaking news from overnight. Columbus police are investigating a multi-vehicle crash along I-70 near the Downtown split. Video from 10TV shows several cars attempting to avoid a stopped vehicle just after sunrise, but the quick chain reaction led to multiple injuries. Emergency crews responded quickly, and officials remind us to use caution during the morning commute, especially with ongoing road construction in the area.

Turning to public safety, Columbus detectives are following up after a chaotic July Fourth weekend saw six people shot at a large party at a short-term rental on the East Side. Most of the attendees were teens. While all who were injured are expected to recover, police urge parents to keep a close eye on gatherings over the summer as these pop-up parties are an increasing safety concern. In other crime news, there was a break-in at a local mattress store on Cleveland Avenue overnight, with the suspects reportedly brandishing weapons. Columbus police are seeking tips from anyone with information.

At city hall, Mayor Andrew Ginther doubled down this week on his push for more affordable housing as the Starling Yard apartments officially opened in Franklinton. The project brings 97 new affordable units, with rents starting just over four hundred dollars a month. For residents like Kimyatta Smith, who overcame years of hardship and homelessness, it’s a life-changing step. City leaders say this is just the beginning, as Columbus will need two hundred thousand more housing units in the next decade. A five hundred million dollar affordable housing bond will appear on November’s ballot, aiming to accelerate these efforts. Meanwhile, developers have also broken ground on the first of twenty-seven new scattered-site homes on the Near East Side, targeting families and first-time buyers.

If you’re in the job market, there’s positive news out of Reynoldsburg Schools, which is hiring dozens of educators and support staff despite recent budget challenges. The local job board reflects about eleven thousand open positions across healthcare, logistics, and education as of this morning. On the business front, we’re welcoming a new addition to the neighborhood—Dueling Axes is opening its doors in Grove City on July eighteenth, offering axe throwing, shuffleboard, and more at its new Broadway location. At the same time, Chapman’s Eat Market in German Village has announced it will close in August, so you still have a few weeks to grab one last bite.

Weather today looks cooperative for most of our plans, with partly sunny skies and highs in the low eighties. There’s a slight chance for a pop-up thunderstorm late in the afternoon, but most community events should go on as scheduled. Looking ahead, the weekend warms up to the upper eighties, so keep those hydration plans in mind for outdoor festivals and family outings.

Speaking of events, there’s plenty to get excited about. Goodfellas Pizzeria is opening its first Columbus location this week in the Short North. Meanwhile, if you need your caffeine fix, several new coffee shops have popped up around the city in recent weeks. And don’t miss the “Mega Weekend,” featuring live music, fireworks, and the always quirky Doo Dah Parade winding its way through the Short North and downtown.

For our schools, Wellington welcomes a new Head of School in a historic appointment, and Columbus City Schools staff are working to improve security after finding an eighth firearm on campus since September. Community groups and city-funded camps are stepping up, aiming to steer hundreds of local kids into safe, positive summer activities.

We end with a feel-good moment—a longtime Franklinton resident, once a student at the old Starling Middle School, now welcomes her family to a brand new affordable apartment on the same site. For her, it’s a story of struggle turning into stability, and a reminder of the real impact our city’s investments can have.

Thanks for tuning in and remember to subscribe for local updates and stories that matter to Columbus. This has been Columbus Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Tuesday, July 8, 2025.

We begin today with breaking news from City Hall, where city leaders are moving quickly on new rules for short-term rentals after the tragic Fourth of July shooting on East Livingston Avenue claimed the life of a 17-year-old and left five others injured. Mayor Ginther is calling the violence totally unacceptable and says the city will act to make rentals safer while working closely with Columbus police. Community forums are underway to hear residents’ concerns and review proposed policy changes, especially after last weekend’s events put the issue front and center for neighborhoods near Olde Towne East and Bexley.

Turning to crime and public safety, Columbus police report that while overall homicides are down compared to last summer, felony assaults remain high, contributing to continued anxiety in some communities. In the past 24 hours, the Columbus Police released updates on a homicide in the 3100 block of Delta Marine Drive. Officers are also seeking information in a recent burglary and a pair of armed robberies in the Linden area. Anyone with tips is urged to contact Crime Stoppers. Meanwhile, the family of Antwan Lindsey, who was shot and killed by officers last year in east Columbus, has filed suit against the city, keeping issues of accountability and policing in the spotlight.

On the weather front, after last night's scattered showers and a brief funnel cloud spotted near Gahanna, we’re waking up to cooler temperatures this morning but can expect the mercury to rise to the upper 80s by late afternoon. Showers are possible on and off throughout the day, so keep an umbrella handy if you’re headed to work or planning outdoor activities. Rain chances stick with us the rest of the week, but, good news, we might see some breaks in the clouds by the weekend.

In business news, Columbus gas prices have dropped more than 15 cents a gallon, offering some relief at the pump. On the real estate front, a new safety project is bringing a $2.5 million investment to Cassady Avenue, with a roundabout coming to help with traffic flow near the airport—part of the 55 new projects statewide. Job seekers got some encouragement as well: the national labor market added about 147,000 jobs in June, and local employers are cautiously optimistic heading into the second half of the year.

If you’re looking for things to do, the Columbus Zoo’s lantern festival returns this weekend, promising dazzling displays just north of Dublin. Franklin Park Conservatory has special summer programs and farmers markets. For sports fans, the Columbus Crew is finalizing a deal for Hugo Picard, and Buckeye fans can look forward to a packed noon kickoff schedule this fall. In local schools, a pint-sized chess prodigy is bringing home championships, and Wellington welcomes a new head of school in a historic appointment.

Finally, for a bit of good news, a local camp funded by the city is helping nearly 400 kids find fun and safety this summer, offering a bright alternative to violence and giving families hope for the future.

This has been Columbus Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Saturday, July 5th, 2025.

We wake up today after a Fourth of July filled with both celebration and some somber moments for our city. Yesterday, hundreds gathered at the Ohio Statehouse to voice their concerns with signs and speeches, using Independence Day to make their voices heard on a range of issues facing our country and state. The spirit downtown was passionate but peaceful, with families, students, and longtime residents all taking part.

On a more sobering note, we must report a tragic incident that unfolded last night. A shooting during a party at a short-term rental home on East Livingston Avenue left one juvenile dead and five others injured. Columbus Police are continuing their investigation, and we keep the families affected in our thoughts as the community searches for answers and safety. If you have any information, authorities urge you to come forward.

Turning to city hall, the big story this week is Governor DeWine’s signing of Ohio’s new two-year, sixty million dollar budget. The budget brings some significant changes, including line-item vetoes that have sparked conversation across Columbus. Local groups are watching closely, particularly regarding how these budget changes could affect school funding and public services.

If you’re heading out today, the weather will be hot and sunny, with highs soaring back into the 90s. It’s perfect weather for those planning to visit the Short North for today’s Gallery Hop, running from 4 to 8 along High Street. Expect vibrant art displays, live performances, and plenty of food—just remember to stay hydrated.

In Worthington, those looking to try something new can check out a free introductory ballroom dancing class at 402 East Wilson Bridge Road this afternoon. It starts at 2:30 and is a great way to meet new people or just beat the heat for a bit.

Sports fans have something to cheer about, too. Columbus Crew 2 takes the field at Historic Crew Stadium this afternoon at 3, facing off against the New England Revolution II. After a strong defensive showing last weekend and a tough draw in their last match against New England, Crew 2 are looking to climb up the MLS NEXT Pro standings under coach Federico Higuaín.

On the roads, AAA reminds all of us to double-check our cars before hitting the highway, as heavy holiday traffic and high temperatures could create problems for many of the roughly three million Ohioans traveling this weekend. Meanwhile, drivers should be aware that parts of State Route 315 through Delaware County are set to close for construction starting July 14, so plan your commutes accordingly.

For those interested in real estate or job opportunities, recent market trends show steady hiring and a stable housing market, with the median home price in our metro area holding around three hundred thousand dollars.

We end today’s roundup with a feel-good story that shows the strength of our community. One Blacklick family, after a harrowing experience at what was meant to be a simple cookout, is now sharing their story in hopes of helping others avoid tragedy. Their message: you can’t buy back love and people—so cherish those close to you and look out for your neighbors.

This has been Columbus Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

This episode includes AI-generated content.

Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for July 3, 2025. We’re gearing up today for the city’s biggest Independence Day celebration, Red, White & Boom! Traffic and road closures are already in effect downtown, with Washington Boulevard from Broad to Main and parts of Civic Center Drive closed through Friday morning. Expect more closures starting this afternoon, including Main Street near the river and side streets like Rich and Starling as parade formations get underway. If you’re headed to the fireworks, which start at 10 p.m. after a dazzling drone show, plan extra time and watch for detours around the downtown core[1][8].

City Hall is also in the news this week. The Columbus City Council recently passed an ordinance to expand the neighborhood violence intervention program, aiming to improve community safety through outreach and support[4]. That’s a big step toward addressing public safety beyond traditional policing. On the infrastructure front, Ohio’s Department of Transportation announced full closures on parts of State Route 315 starting July 14 for major construction projects—drivers should start planning alternate routes[2].

The weather today is mostly sunny and warm, with highs pushing into the low 90s—perfect for outdoor events but don’t forget your sunscreen, especially around the fireworks festivities. Overnight will be partly clear and comfortable, and the heatwave looks to continue through the holiday weekend, so stay hydrated and safe[2][7].

In business, a local favorite in German Village will close its doors this August, marking the end of an era for one of the neighborhoods’ well-loved restaurants. Meanwhile, New Albany Symphony Orchestra is wrapping up its season with a spectacular finale featuring classical guitarist Milos, a treat for music lovers before the summer break[4].

Speaking of culture, country star Cody Johnson is set to perform in Columbus as part of his Leather Tour, adding some toe-tapping excitement to the city's music scene this summer[4].

On the jobs front, June saw some challenges statewide with over 2,000 job losses reported in Ohio, including nine layoffs locally. But there are still opportunities as the region’s economy adapts and recovers[6].

In sports, our local schools continue to shine with recent achievements across the board, bolstering community pride as summer leagues ramp up.

Turning to public safety, the past 24 hours brought a few serious incidents. A Columbus man was sentenced to over 25 years in prison for a fatal shooting at a birthday party, and another has been charged in a separate shooting on Delta Marine Drive. Police urge residents to stay aware and report suspicious activity[6]. Meanwhile, crime prevention programs in Linden and Grove City are gaining community support as they tackle burglary and violence concerns[6].

Finally, we end with a feel-good story: a local family in Blacklick who experienced a tough moment during a cookout is now sharing their experience to help others avoid similar hardships. It’s a reminder of the strength in community and looking out for one another[2].

That’s your Local Pulse for Columbus today. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates. Enjoy your Fourth of July celebrations and stay safe.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

This episode includes AI-generated content.

Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Tuesday, July 1, 2025.

We start today with breaking news out of the Statehouse, where Governor Mike DeWine has just signed Ohio’s new two-year budget. This budget brings big changes, including a statewide flat income tax of two point seven five percent starting next year. While that may mean a simpler tax time for many, the budget has stirred up debate over school funding and local control. DeWine specifically vetoed a proposal that would have forced school districts to limit how much money they carry over into future budgets, saying it would put school finances at risk if taxpayers grew weary of frequent levy votes. He’s set to discuss these vetoes in more detail later today, so we’ll keep an eye on those developments for you.

Looking at our weather, it’s a wet start to July in the Columbus area. Heavy rain and gusty winds move through downtown and much of central Ohio this morning, so if you’re driving on I-70 or 315, take it slow and expect some ponding on the roads. Fortunately, things should clear up by midday, leaving us with a warm, dry afternoon and highs in the mid-eighties. That’s good news for anyone planning to enjoy outdoor events this evening.

Speaking of events, downtown Columbus is gearing up for the Red, White & BOOM festival. Road closures are already in effect around the arena district, down Nationwide Boulevard, and parts of Front Street, as crews set up for our city’s largest fireworks celebration. The closures started at 9 a.m. and will run through the Fourth of July, so plan ahead if you’re commuting or heading downtown for work or festivities.

In business news, local food lovers are excited for the return of the Columbus Food Truck Festival this weekend, promising not just great eats and live music but a new VIP experience along the Scioto Mile. Meanwhile, several new small retailers are setting up shop in the Short North, offering everything from handcrafted chocolate to pop-up book nooks.

Real estate experts say the Columbus housing market remains hot, with listings moving quickly and the average home price hovering just above three hundred thousand dollars. Job postings are up slightly this week, especially in the healthcare and logistics sectors, with about four thousand open positions posted across Franklin County.

Turning to public safety, Columbus police are investigating a fatal crash overnight at Georgesville and Holt roads on the west side. One person was killed and another seriously injured when a semitrailer collided with a sedan. Police are asking anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward.

Elsewhere, a recent arrest on Pine Street involved possession of methamphetamine and an outstanding warrant, reminding us all to stay alert and look out for each other.

On the sports front, Ohio State is making headlines as Coach Ryan Day announces the university’s top football players will represent the Buckeyes at this year’s Big Ten Media Days, setting expectations high for the upcoming season.

And in schools, a shout-out to Wellington for welcoming a new Head of School, a historic appointment that’s energizing students and staff as they prepare for next year.

Let’s close with a feel-good story. City-funded summer camps are in full swing, aiming to help four hundred local kids stay safe, learn new skills, and have a bright summer away from violence.

This has been Columbus Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

This episode includes AI-generated content.

Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Saturday, June 28, 2025. We start the day closely following the Amber Alert issued overnight for a one-year-old in Franklin County. Columbus police are asking everyone across the city to stay vigilant and report any sightings that might help bring the child home safely. Please keep your eyes open and your phones nearby for updates throughout the day.

Turning to city life, today kicks off the 250 Buckeye Train and Transportation Celebration, highlighting Ohio’s rich rail history. The festivities will include events across downtown and are expected to draw train enthusiasts of all ages. If you are out and about, remember that some streets near the main station and along High Street may have heavier traffic and parking restrictions as a result.

The weather today is promising for outdoor plans. We are enjoying mild summer temperatures, with a bit of cloud cover early but clearing skies and highs in the upper seventies this afternoon. It’s a perfect setup for local events, including the free pet adoption happening at the ASPCA Cruelty Recovery Center on Alshire Road from one to six p.m. If you have been thinking of adding a furry member to the family, today is your chance since all adoption fees are waived.

Local businesses continue to adapt as we head into the summer. Several new shops and cafes are opening over in German Village, while a few small businesses along Parsons Avenue have announced closures due to rising rent. Retailers across Easton are also launching seasonal hiring for around two hundred positions, making this a good weekend for job seekers to polish up resumes and check out open interviews.

For real estate, the market remains brisk but stable. The median home price in Franklin County just passed 315 thousand dollars, with more first-time buyers entering the market thanks to new mortgage incentives announced last week.

Looking ahead, this weekend is packed with things to do. The Columbus Museum of Art is hosting a new interactive exhibit, and there will be live music tonight at the Scioto Mile. Over at the Franklin Park Conservatory, the annual Summer Lights Festival begins at dusk, so bring the family and enjoy the show. Sports fans will want to catch the Columbus Crew at Lower.com Field this evening as they face off in a crucial mid-season match.

On a more somber note, police are investigating a fatal crash in the Hilltop neighborhood Friday night involving a motorcycle. Two people lost their lives on Sullivant Avenue, and authorities are reminding drivers to be especially cautious this weekend. No additional arrests have been reported, but patrols are up across the west side.

In brighter news, congratulations go out to local high school athletes who competed in the state track finals this week, bringing home three gold medals for Columbus schools. And finally, a special hats off to the volunteers organizing today’s community garden cleanup near Goodale Park—they are turning a vacant lot into a green space for everyone.

This has been Columbus Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

This episode includes AI-generated content.

Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Friday, June 27, 2025.

We begin today with breaking news on city safety. Overnight, a tragic crash on I-70 East near Brice Road left one person dead and another injured, causing major delays for early commuters. Police are still investigating the scene, so if your morning drive takes you that way, expect slowdowns and consider alternate routes. In other city safety news, a car crashed into an apartment in east Columbus. Fortunately, no life-threatening injuries were reported, but first responders urge caution during the morning rush as crews clear the area. On the crime front, Franklin County deputies have wrapped up a multi-day operation, arresting thirty-four suspects on charges from burglary to high-speed chases. Among the incidents, a mattress store in Linden was held up at gunpoint by suspects police are calling the twin box-spring bandits. Public safety officials encourage anyone with information to come forward as they focus on keeping our neighborhoods secure.

Looking at today’s weather, we have a warm start with temperatures already in the mid-seventies. Showers and a chance of thunderstorms could sweep through by late afternoon, so if you have outdoor plans, keep an umbrella nearby. The weekend is shaping up to be even warmer, with highs climbing into the upper eighties tomorrow and touching ninety by Sunday, so be sure to stay hydrated.

From City Hall, there are updates impacting daily life. The Columbus Board of Education is finalizing next steps for the five schools set to close, and Superintendent Angela Chapman is expected to present a realignment plan for affected families. The city is also rolling out streamlined forms for neighborhood cleanups as part of our ongoing campaign to keep Columbus beautiful, making it easier for volunteers and teams to tackle litter this summer. Our Litter League competition is in full swing through August, inviting everyone to join in and make our city shine.

In the real estate and jobs landscape, the local market remains competitive, with homes averaging around three hundred thousand dollars and listings moving fast, especially near Clintonville and the Short North. Hiring is steady in hospitality and logistics, with dozens of postings at Easton and along Polaris Parkway.

This weekend in Columbus is packed with events. ComFest returns to Goodale Park through Sunday, promising music, arts, and community activism. The Columbus Museum of Art and Franklin Park Conservatory both feature family-friendly exhibits, and live music lights up venues across the Arena District and German Village. If you are looking for something unique, join the Litter League’s next public cleanup on Saturday morning and help our parks sparkle.

On the education front, Wellington School welcomes a new Head of School in a historic appointment, while Columbus City Schools continue to focus on safety after a challenging year.

And finally, for our feel-good story, city camps funded by Columbus are steering hundreds of local kids into safe, creative summer adventures. Just yesterday, campers at Dodge Park shared their artwork with first responders, drawing smiles all around.

This has been Columbus Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

This episode includes AI-generated content.