Columbus Local Pulse

Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Saturday, May 17, 2025.

We start with breaking news from just outside the city. We’re keeping the family of 41-year-old Larry Littlejohn in our thoughts after he tragically lost his life Thursday morning in a crash on I-90 near the Hawley Street overpass. Larry, a Columbus native and truck driver, was pronounced dead at the scene, and first responders from Westfield and Chautauqua County worked for hours in response. It’s a tough reminder for all of us to drive with care, especially as road construction ramps up this season.

Closer to home, storms rocked Central Ohio overnight, bringing heavy rain and gusty winds that left some minor street flooding on the East Side and a few downed limbs near Goodale Park. The skies are clearing, and we’re heading for a high near 70 today. The rest of the weekend looks dry and warmer, with plenty of sunshine ahead for Sunday’s outdoor plans.

Turning to City Hall, leaders this week redoubled efforts to address the summer surge in homicides. City officials and police held a public forum, discussing new violence prevention grants and community policing along Parsons Avenue and the Linden corridor. There’s a push for more neighborhood watch groups as we head into the summer months.

On the statewide stage, a political shake-up as Dave Yost suspends his run for governor. Yost cited the strong support for rival Vivek Ramaswamy, who recently secured the Republican endorsement, reshaping the landscape for the next election. Meanwhile, there’s talk that Ohio State football legend Jim Tressel could enter the race, which would definitely heat things up.

On crime, Columbus police are investigating a homicide on the 3000 block of Esquire Drive and a robbery in the 1000 block of Parsons Avenue. An aggravated robbery was also reported on Walford Street on the Northwest Side. Police urge residents to keep doors locked and report suspicious activity, particularly after dark. Meanwhile, Crime Stoppers is still seeking tips about a Grove City firearms burglary and is offering rewards for information.

In real estate and jobs, the Columbus job market remains strong. Kroger just announced plans to hire up to 15,000 new associates nationwide, and several positions will be in our region. On the housing front, local realtors say median home prices now average around 340,000, with brisk activity near Grandview Heights and new developments along West Broad.

On the lighter side, cultural events are blooming. The Race for the Cure returns today at North Bank Park, bringing thousands together in support of breast cancer awareness. Also, the NAMI Mid-Ohio Walk is happening at Tanger Outlets in Sunbury. Tonight, the CCAD Fashion Show will dazzle with bold student designs.

Sports fans, Ohio State is already looking ahead to fall with the Buckeyes set to open their football season against Texas. Local high school teams wrapped up the spring seasons, with several city schools advancing to regi

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Friday, May 16, 2025. We begin today with a watchful eye on our weather as severe storms are expected to roll through central Ohio after 10 p.m. tonight. Heat and humidity are already climbing, so if you have evening plans—like heading to Short North or the Arena District—keep an umbrella handy and stay weather aware. The weekend looks cooler after the storms move through.

At City Hall, big discussions continue about public safety and community policing. The city just wrapped up a two-week clean and safe corridor initiative on Sullivan Avenue. Nearly 90 arrests were made in the first week, focusing on issues like drug crimes and prostitution. This effort is part of ongoing steps to address resident concerns and keep neighborhoods safer as summer approaches.

Turning to real estate and jobs, Columbus remains a hotspot. Realtors are reporting that inventory is still tight, with homes around Clintonville and Grandview Heights selling quickly, often in less than two weeks. The jobs market is steady, with about 3,000 new openings posted this week in health care, tech, and logistics. If you’re searching, areas near Polaris and Easton have had several new businesses open their doors this month, including a specialty bakery and a tech startup hub.

In crime news, Columbus Police have issued updates on several incidents from the past 24 hours. There was a reported robbery on the 1000 block of Parsons Avenue and a homicide investigation underway on Esquire Drive in the south end. Additionally, a recent aggravated robbery was reported near Walford Street. Police are reminding everyone to stay vigilant, especially in these areas, and to report any suspicious activity as investigations continue.

Shifting to schools, Columbus City Schools are preparing for graduation season, even as concerns over student safety remain. The CCS security team is working hard after finding another firearm on campus—making it the eighth such incident since September. This comes amid ongoing discussions about school closures and how best to allocate resources for students and staff.

In sports, excitement is building as the Columbus Crew prepare to take on FC Cincinnati following a strong shutout win by Cincinnati against Toronto. Fans are hoping the Crew can ride home field advantage at Lower.com Field. Meanwhile, lawmakers at the Statehouse are debating a new bill that would require Ohio State football to schedule more primetime games, aiming to boost local business and fan engagement on game days.

For arts and culture, don’t miss the CCAD student fashion show this weekend—it’s set to dazzle with bold new collections at the downtown campus. Plus, the NAMI Mid-Ohio Walk happens tomorrow morning at Tanger Outlets in Sunbury, raising funds and awareness for mental health.

And for a feel-good note to end, hospital leaders at Nationwide Children’s are expanding services into Grove City and New Albany, making pediatric specialty care m

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Thursday, May 15, 2025.

We start today with breaking news from the south side. Last night, a man was critically injured in a shooting near Lockbourne and Smith Roads. Columbus police responded quickly and the investigation is ongoing, but so far no arrests have been announced. This comes as city leaders continue their efforts to address public safety concerns, with a recent focus on Sullivan Avenue. The city’s Clean and Safe Corridor Initiative has led to dozens of arrests for drug offenses and prostitution, aiming to make one of our busiest corridors safer for everyone.

Turning to city hall, school funding is front and center again. Lawmakers are debating a new budget that could cut $400 million from public schools over the next two years, shifting more funds to charter and special needs programs. The plan would tie school district funding to enrollment numbers instead of fixed formulas, making it harder for districts like Westerville to plan ahead. School leaders warn this could mean major cuts to staff and programs if the proposal passes.

Weatherwise, we stepped out to a mild morning with temperatures around 65 degrees. Expect a warm day ahead with highs reaching the mid 80s. Skies should stay mostly clear, so it’s a perfect opportunity for outdoor plans. Looking into tomorrow and the weekend, similar warm weather is on tap, but don’t forget your sunscreen if you’re heading out.

In real estate and jobs, the Columbus job market remains competitive with lots of hiring in healthcare, tech, and logistics. Home sales cooled a bit this spring but prices are still up about five percent from last year’s average, especially in neighborhoods like Clintonville and German Village, where demand is strong for both rentals and homes for sale.

We have some exciting business updates too. The city has welcomed a few new local restaurants downtown, while longtime favorite Steiner’s Bakery announced it will close its doors on Parsons Avenue after nearly fifty years. And on the innovation front, Central Ohio’s roadways are now a testing ground for autonomous vehicle technology, thanks to new research efforts in the city.

Culturally, all eyes this week are on the Columbus College of Art and Design’s big fashion show, where student designers will present their bold new collections. In music, the Short North is buzzing with live performances at several local venues, and the Columbus Zoo wraps up its spring festival this weekend.

For sports fans, congratulations to the Northland High School baseball team on their recent playoff win, and good luck to the Columbus Crew in their big match on Saturday.

Before we go, a quick feel-good story: Nationwide Children’s Hospital is expanding its outreach in local suburbs, ensuring more families get specialized care close to home.

That’s all for Columbus Local Pulse this morning. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Tuesday, May 13, 2025.

Tragedy struck on Mother's Day as a 4-year-old boy from Columbus and his mother died in a head-on collision with a tractor-trailer on Interstate 70 near Claysville, Pennsylvania. Abdul-Salami Touray and his mother were traveling west when their vehicle crossed the median. Authorities report neither was properly restrained at the time of the crash.

In Columbus, police are investigating after two people were killed in a shooting in east Columbus. Details remain limited, but this comes as another person was shot and killed in west Columbus. Our law enforcement partners continue to remind parents to monitor their children's whereabouts as summer break approaches.

At City Hall, Columbus City Council is considering allocating $1.5 million for tenant legal aid in eviction cases. This proposal aims to provide assistance to residents facing housing insecurity across our community.

In education news, South-Western City Schools has partnered with a group advocating for English-only education. Parents have expressed mixed reactions to this development.

On the job front, a major employer is expanding in Ohio, adding new positions that will boost our local economy. While details are still emerging, this represents a positive sign for our labor market.

Weather-wise, we're looking at 65 degrees today with clouds giving way to afternoon sunshine. Tomorrow should be warmer with a high of 72, perfect for outdoor activities around the city.

Our community continues to rally around important causes. Nationwide Children's Hospital is expanding beyond its main campus to suburbs including Grove City and New Albany, bringing specialized pediatric care closer to families throughout central Ohio.

Law enforcement officials are searching for a missing 12-year-old boy from Franklin County. If you have any information, please contact local authorities immediately.

In a heartwarming development, officers recently helped talk a young girl down from a bridge, potentially saving her life. One officer, who is the father of a young daughter himself, said the incident "really hit home."

The city has invested $142,000 in cleaning up Sullivan Avenue as part of the Clean and Safe Corridor initiative, addressing concerns about drug crimes and improving quality of life in the Hilltop neighborhood.

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

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Saturday, May tenth. We wake up today to bright sunshine and clear skies across central Ohio, with temperatures at a crisp forty-three degrees this morning. Expect a comfortable jump into the mid-seventies by the afternoon, perfect weather if you’re planning to get outside or attend any of the city’s events this weekend. Looking ahead, we’ll see even warmer weather tomorrow, topping eighty degrees and staying dry.

Our top story from city hall, the Columbus City Council has just passed an ordinance expanding the neighborhood violence intervention program, aiming to bring more resources to high-risk areas and strengthen community partnerships to address the root causes of violence. Meanwhile, the city’s Clean and Safe Corridor initiative has wrapped up two weeks of efforts along Sullivan Avenue, where police made nearly ninety arrests tied to drug crimes and prostitution. Residents say they’re hopeful it marks a turning point for the Hilltop neighborhood, though city leaders emphasize there’s still much work to be done to keep progress on track.

In political news with statewide impact, the Ohio Republican Party met behind closed doors in Columbus and made an unprecedented early endorsement of Vivek Ramaswamy for governor and Jon Husted for the U.S. Senate seat. This move shakes up next year’s primary race, sending ripples through political circles across Ohio.

Turning to our crime report, Columbus police are investigating a pair of shootings this week. On Mock Park Drive, an eighteen-year-old woman, Au'Jai Davenport, was killed while sitting in a vehicle. In northeast Columbus, nineteen-year-old Prophet Thomas-Applin was discovered with fatal gunshot wounds along the four-thousand block of Manitoba Drive. Detectives urge anyone with information or video from the areas during late evening hours to come forward. Police also report that recent enforcement actions have made a dent in drug and property crime along key corridors, but remind us to stay aware as the city grows.

Let’s talk about the local job market and real estate. The latest numbers show job growth is up about three percent since last year, and several companies around Polaris Parkway and downtown are adding positions, especially in tech and healthcare. In real estate, median home prices have climbed past three hundred thousand dollars, with Grove City and New Albany hot spots for families seeking new builds.

On the cultural front, the Sonic Temple Music Festival is electrifying Historic Crew Stadium this weekend, drawing rock fans from across the Midwest. Over at the Ohio State Fairgrounds, the final act for this summer’s concert series has just been announced, adding even more star power to the city’s summer lineup. In the arts, the New Albany Symphony Orchestra welcomes guitar sensation MILOŠ for their season finale, while the PNC Broadway series reveals a packed setlist for next season.

Education news brings a mix of challenge and c

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Friday, May 9th, 2025.

We begin today with breaking news in northeast Columbus, where a shooting on Wednesday night near Mock Park left one person dead and another injured. Police are urging anyone with information to step forward as the investigation continues. In North Columbus, a police pursuit ended in a person being detained after reports of gunfire. Our hearts are with families affected by these recent incidents, and we remind everyone to stay alert and look out for one another as authorities continue their work.

From City Hall, the Clean and Safe Corridors initiative has just wrapped its latest effort in the Hilltop neighborhood. City workers spent two weeks addressing resident concerns, from improving lighting to cleaning up sidewalks, all part of a broader focus on neighborhood safety and cleanliness. The city has also launched new Next Generation 911 technology, aiming to enhance emergency response for everyone in Columbus.

The weather today is starting cool and cloudy, with temperatures climbing into the mid-60s this afternoon. You may need a light jacket heading out in the morning, but by the afternoon, it should be pleasant—perfect for getting outdoors, walking in Goodale Park, or checking out a local event. The weekend outlook promises even warmer temperatures, up into the high 70s.

In city government news, the 2025 State of the City address from Mayor Ginther highlighted progress on affordable housing, youth programming, and public safety, emphasizing that growth and opportunity should reach every corner of Columbus. Our new nine-district council system is now fully implemented, with Jesse Vogel recently winning District 7, reflecting a shift toward more localized representation for neighborhoods across the city.

Turning to the job and real estate markets, the unemployment rate remains steady, and we’re seeing new businesses open downtown and in the Short North. Several small retailers and a new coffee shop are setting up near High Street, while a few longstanding businesses in German Village announced summer renovations. Real estate agents report that homes are moving quickly, with the average listing staying under contract for just nine days.

Columbus City Schools are making headlines as five locations face closure due to budget cuts, but students are finding bright spots—Wellington has just welcomed its new Head of School, marking a historic appointment. And in sports, the Ohio State women’s golf team is heading to the NCAA Championships for the first time since 2018, an exciting achievement for local fans.

Looking ahead, Taco Fest and Taco Week return this weekend across the Arena District and downtown, bringing music, local vendors, and plenty of delicious bites. There’s also a community cleanup planned in Franklinton tomorrow morning.

Before we go, here’s a feel-good story to start your Friday. In the Hilltop, neighbors rallied to build new playground equipment at Westgat

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Thursday, May 8, 2025.

Big news from Ohio voters as Issue 2 was approved on Tuesday, authorizing $2.5 billion in bonds over the next decade for infrastructure improvements across the state. The Ohio Capital Improvement Program will provide funding for roads, bridges, and other local infrastructure projects without raising taxes, while creating an estimated 35,000 construction jobs.

In local education news, Columbus City Schools held a town hall event where Democratic lawmakers urged parents and community members to advocate for public school funding. This comes as the district faces tough decisions about resource allocation.

A significant business development happened yesterday as DSV celebrated the grand opening of its massive 1.2 million square foot warehouse facility in New Albany. Located at 11555 Briscoe Parkway, the ceremony was attended by New Albany Mayor Sloan Spalding and represents a major investment in what's being called the "Silicon Heartland."

On the public safety front, police have made progress in several cases. Four teenagers were arrested in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred in east Columbus last month. Additionally, a teen accused of shooting at four Columbus police officers while a juvenile has been indicted as an adult.

In Union County, voters approved a 5.5-mill levy for Marysville Schools, while Franklin Township faces firefighter cuts after their levy failed by a narrow margin.

The city is holding a community forum with Columbus police chief candidates as the search continues for new leadership.

Governor DeWine is reportedly ready to veto a bill that would bar Columbus from outlawing flavored cigarettes, signaling a potential clash between state and local authorities on public health policy.

Thousands of protesters gathered at the Ohio Statehouse earlier this week to demonstrate against policies related to public education in Ohio.

For those with green thumbs, Columbus gardeners are getting ready for the busiest planting weekend of the year. The Peach Truck has also announced dozens of tour stops in the Columbus area this summer, so mark your calendars if you're looking forward to fresh Georgia peaches.

Weather-wise, we're looking at highs in the upper 60s today, perfect for getting out to enjoy some of the city's parks, though be aware that a person was killed and another wounded at a northeast Columbus park recently.

For weekend entertainment, remember that the Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival returns to Gahanna June 13-15.

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

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

We wake up today with an eye on the ballot box as Columbus joins the rest of Ohio for primary Election Day. Polls are open now across the city and the turnout is expected to be steady, with notable decisions on local city council races, school levies, and the big statewide Issue 2. That’s the question asking if Ohio should reauthorize $2.5 billion for roads, bridges, and local infrastructure for the next ten years. Many residents are hoping for a yes, after another spring of dodging potholes and waiting on overdue road repairs. Don’t forget, you can reach out to the nonpartisan voter helpline if you have any questions about the process today.

Switching gears to the weather, our Tuesday starts off cloudy and on the cooler side, with more rain in the forecast after lunchtime. Highs will hover in the low 60s, so pack a jacket if you’re heading out. The rain could impact after-school activities, so stay tuned for potential last-minute changes or cancellations.

In breaking news from overnight, a stabbing in Franklinton left one person critically hurt. Columbus police have a suspect in custody, but neighbors along Broad Street and Dakota Avenue are understandably shaken. On the north side, tragedy struck over the weekend as a 17-year-old lost his life after a shooting. Police encourage anyone with information to come forward. Meanwhile, Franklin Township police report the arrest of a Venezuelan gang member, highlighting the ongoing efforts to keep our neighborhoods safe.

On the jobs front, our city continues to feel the pinch from statewide layoffs, with nearly 1,700 jobs lost across Ohio just last month. Locally, some manufacturing and logistics positions are still available, but competition remains high. Over in real estate, we’re seeing a slight uptick in new listings, but prices are holding steady as buyers and sellers watch interest rates closely.

City Hall is staying busy. Voters are weighing in on key school levy proposals, and the city attorney has just filed a lawsuit against a troubled Franklinton nonprofit, labeled a public nuisance by its neighbors. These actions could shape city spending and neighborhood resources over the next year.

In business news, Upper Arlington is buzzing about a new coffee shop that opened its doors this week, making waves for its focus on inclusivity and accessible hiring practices. There’s also a little drama behind the scenes as a local card game company sues over the impact of tariffs and a Franklinton drop-in center faces scrutiny over its use of taxpayer funds.

For families, five Columbus City Schools are facing possible closure, with district leaders promising robust community conversations before any final decisions are made. On a brighter note, Wellington School has just welcomed a new head in a historic appointment, and our CCS security team is doubling down on efforts to keep campuses safe after finding the eighth firearm on schoo

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Saturday, May 3rd, 2025. We’re waking up with cloudy skies in the low 60s and scattered rain moving in by late morning. Expect more showers throughout the day and into Sunday, so if you’re headed out for errands or community events, pack an umbrella and plan for a few soggy sidewalks.

Let’s start with breaking news impacting our community. Columbus police have identified three people killed in a tragic double murder-suicide on Esquire Drive in Canal Winchester early Thursday. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward. In another serious case, a Columbus resident was arrested Friday afternoon on North Lincoln Village Drive, facing charges of child molesting and possession of child pornography. The department is urging vigilance and community support as these investigations continue.

Turning to city hall, there’s big news from the Ohio Senate as lawmakers unanimously passed House Bill 15. This legislation aims to make power more reliable and affordable throughout Columbus and across the state. It promises to reduce barriers for new energy projects, encouraging businesses and job growth. As our city expands, this policy could play a major role in shaping our local economy and the security of our power grid.

On the topic of jobs, local analysts report that job openings in Franklin County remain steady, with around eleven thousand listings across healthcare, logistics, and tech. Several new businesses are taking root along Polaris Parkway and in the Short North, including a new co-working hub and a bakery that officially opens its doors on Monday. Meanwhile, a beloved pizza spot on Broad Street is closing after thirty years, hanging up its apron at the end of this weekend.

In the world of real estate, home prices in central Columbus continue their gradual climb, with the median home listing now close to three hundred twenty thousand dollars. Apartment vacancy rates remain low, but we’re seeing more flexible lease options pop up for renters looking to stay closer to downtown or university areas.

Culturally, the city was alive Thursday as thousands gathered at the Ohio Statehouse for May Day protests, raising their voices on everything from national policy to public education. Local music fans can look forward to a free concert at Bicentennial Park tonight, featuring Columbus-based bands and food trucks, though the weather might move some of the crowd under tents.

Our schools have reason to celebrate. The Wellington School introduced its new head of school, a historic first for the district, while Columbus City Schools is working through some tough decisions as five schools brace for closure. On the sports front, the Columbus Crew are gearing up for a big home match tonight, and local high school track teams are making headlines after several record-breaking runs yesterday at the regional meet.

Before we wrap up, a quick feel-good story—the

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Friday, May 2nd, 2025. We start our day with a look at the weather. The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for most of Ohio until 7 p.m. today, so if you are headed out, keep umbrellas close and watch for updates. Temperatures will climb toward a high in the upper 70s before things cool down a bit over the weekend.

In breaking news, a community in southeast Columbus is reeling after a tragic incident early Thursday morning. Police responded to an apartment complex on Esquire Drive near Gender and Refugee Road and found three adults dead from gunshot wounds. Authorities are investigating the case as a double murder-suicide. At this point, relationships between the individuals are not clear, but the neighborhood is shaken by the loss. We extend our thoughts to those affected by this tragedy and remind everyone that counseling and support services are available throughout the city for those who need it.

Switching gears to city life, Franklin County buildings closed early yesterday as demonstrators gathered at the Ohio Statehouse, calling attention to public education issues. These peaceful protests are part of the ongoing civic dialogue here in Columbus, showing just how engaged our community remains.

In jobs and economic news, Governor Mike DeWine and Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel have announced that In-Demand Jobs Week kicks off May 5th. This is a chance for job seekers and students to connect with local opportunities in industries ranging from healthcare and manufacturing to tech. For those navigating the local job market, expect several events throughout the city promoting careers and upskilling.

On the real estate front, Columbus continues to earn accolades, with Condé Nast Traveler naming our city one of the top ten best big cities in the U.S. and AFAR including us on its 2025 “Where to Go” list. Our housing market is seeing moderate growth, with steady demand for both rentals and new homes. This is also attracting new businesses. Recent weeks have seen a handful of independent cafes and shops opening in the Short North and Grandview, while a major retailer has announced plans to expand in Easton.

Culturally, this weekend is packed. The Columbus Museum of Art is hosting a new contemporary exhibit, and Franklin Park Conservatory is in full bloom, making both prime destinations regardless of the weather. There are also live music sets at several downtown venues and family festivals taking place across our parks.

Our schools are in the spotlight, too. Congratulations go out to the Centennial High School robotics team, who clinched first place at the state championships. Meanwhile, the Columbus Crew plays at Lower.com Field tomorrow night, with fans hoping for another home win.

To end on a positive note, we want to highlight a group of volunteers on Parsons Avenue who organized a citywide clean-up last Saturday, gathering over 300 bags of litter from our parks and

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