Columbus Local Pulse

Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Thursday, July 17, 2025.

We start with breaking news unfolding across Columbus and our suburbs, as thousands gather today for the “Good Trouble Lives On” rallies. These local protests, marking the fifth anniversary of civil rights leader John Lewis’s death, are planned downtown and in places like Hilliard, Westerville, and Reynoldsburg. Organizers say crowds should be large and lively again, as momentum for social action remains strong throughout our city. Expect heavier foot traffic and some road closures around major intersections if you’re headed downtown.

Turning to city hall, the debate on federal funding rumbles on. Columbus is joining a lawsuit, challenging its label as a sanctuary city despite repeated statements that our city does not have such policies. Officials stress the importance of federal support for everything from safety to housing, and they say they’re standing up for Columbus’s interests in court this week.

On the weather front, conditions are unsettled this morning, with rain pushing in mainly from the west. While we dodged much of the wet weather yesterday, today will feel sticky and tropical, so have an umbrella nearby. More storms are expected this afternoon and could be heavy at times. Temperatures are expected to hover a little above normal, and we’re likely in for a few rounds of this pattern through the weekend. Gusty winds are possible, so use caution if you’re out and about, especially near places like Hilliard or German Village.

In public safety, Columbus Fire responded to a hazmat incident on Monday, issuing a temporary shelter-in-place order in part of the city. That alert has now been lifted and the EPA is monitoring the area for any lingering issues. No major injuries have been reported. Police continue to urge residents citywide to report suspicious activity, especially after a series of car break-ins around the Clintonville and North Linden neighborhoods.

In business, Coca-Cola has just opened a massive new sixty-acre, ninety-million-dollar campus in Columbus. We also welcome a string of food and drink openings, including a new Southern hospitality spot on the East Side and a brewery with a coffee twist downtown. On the flip side, Marino’s Seafood in North Columbus closed after three decades, but a new seafood concept is already lined up to take its place. The central Ohio food scene remains lively, with longtime favorites like Chef-O-Nette reopening in Upper Arlington and a rooftop bar debuting downtown.

Let’s talk real estate and jobs. The latest statewide report shows housing costs continue to rise faster than wages in Ohio. The average renter earns around nineteen dollars an hour, which is nearly four dollars less than what it takes to afford a basic two-bedroom apartment locally. That squeeze is hitting Columbus hard, with many working families finding it tougher to make rent. City officials and advocates are pushing for expanded affordable housing opt

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Sunday, July 13. We wake up today after a dramatic Saturday afternoon on North Yearling Road in Whitehall, where a tense barricade situation sent a wave of concern through the community. According to police, a suspect who shot at officers was safely taken into custody, and no officers returned fire or were hurt. The collaboration between Whitehall, Bexley, and Columbus officers helped ensure the neighborhood’s safety, with the incident ending before evening.

Our weather continues to keep us on our toes. It is another hot day ahead with sunshine early and highs in the low 90s, but the humidity pushes the heat index into the upper 90s. There is a chance of pop-up thunderstorms this afternoon, so if you’re headed outdoors to parks or summer festivals, keep an eye on the sky. Storms yesterday caused brief power outages, leaving more than 20,000 AEP customers in Worthington and north Columbus without power into the evening. Crews have been working overnight and most neighborhoods should be restored this morning.

On the jobs front, there’s big news for our local economy. Anduril Industries, a California-based defense contractor, has just secured a 310 million dollar grant from JobsOhio to build a massive advanced manufacturing facility near Rickenbacker International Airport. This Arsenal 1 project is expected to create about 4,000 new jobs and drive over half a billion in new payroll across the next decade. The 500-acre site should be in full swing by summer of 2026, marking a significant boost for central Ohio’s workforce.

If you’re in the mood for shopping or dining, Easton Town Center keeps expanding. New openings include Bar Italia, the trendy Princess Polly, and premium apparel store Vuori. For those with kids, Easton’s summer programs and family spaces around The Yard offer a welcome air-conditioned retreat from the heat. Easton was just ranked among the top shopping destinations nationwide, so if you need to cool off, it’s a great place to spend a Sunday.

Looking ahead, community events keep us connected. This week brings the Eat Up Columbus benefit for Freedom a la Cart, supporting trafficking survivors, and the Swing Fore Sight Golf Tournament aids Prevent Blindness Ohio. Local coffee lovers can find inspiration Friday mornings at Conspire, which continues to offer community coworking and art gatherings.

Turning to public safety, police are searching for 59-year-old Richard Lindgren, wanted in connection with a deadly shooting late Friday at Louie’s Corner House on Hebron Road in Buckeye Lake. He’s considered armed and dangerous and was last seen driving a cream-colored 2011 Buick Lucerne. Anyone with tips should contact the Licking County Sheriff’s Office.

On a lighter note, schools are quiet for summer, but youth baseball leagues in Grandview and Dublin are capping off their mid-season runs with tournament play this weekend. Congratulations to the Grandview Bobcats 12U for a walk-off win

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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-

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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 enter

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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

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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 e

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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

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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 ha

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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 oth

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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 expecta

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