Good morning, Dublin. A century-old landmark is getting a second chance at making history. The former Downtown YMCA building is transforming into "The Lofts at 40 Long," bringing 121 affordable housing units to Columbus while preserving the architectural character that has defined that corner of Long Street for generations. It's a promising development in a city where housing affordability continues to challenge many residents.
June brings a rainbow of activities as Columbus Pride Month unfolds with events for every interest—from Stonewall's Pride March to family storytimes and Nina West performances. Meanwhile, beneath the streets, Columbus is quietly tackling a billion-dollar infrastructure project to replace up to 60,000 lead service pipes by 2037. The city removed 2,100 pipes last year alone, with plans to accelerate to 5,000 annually—proving that sometimes the most important improvements happen underground.
🌤 Sky Skoop | |||||||
|
89%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🏢 Historic YMCA building gets new life as affordable housing. The former Downtown YMCA in Columbus has received approval for renovation into a 121-unit affordable housing complex. Developer Woda Cooper Companies plans to preserve the century-old building's historic character while making necessary updates, including a new enclosed stairwell. The project, called "The Lofts at 40 Long," will offer apartments to residents earning between 30% and 80% of the area median income. Renovation of the Long Street property could take up to two years to complete.
🌈 Columbus Pride Month bursts with celebrations for every LGBTQ+ ally. From Stonewall's Pride March and Resource Fair to Nina West's performances, the city offers a packed June calendar of events. Festivities include drag shows, bar crawls, ziplining adventures, and family-friendly storytimes throughout Columbus and its suburbs. The Columbus Museum of Art contributes with its "Queer/Modern" gallery, while the Columbus Gay Men's Chorus celebrates its 35th anniversary with performances featuring songs from queer artists. Community engagement opportunities abound with fundraisers supporting LGBTQ+ rights and equality efforts.
🚰 Columbus races to replace 24,000 aging lead pipes by 2037. The city is making steady progress, removing 2,100 pipes last year with plans to increase to 5,000 annually as the program peaks. Officials have earmarked $1 billion for the Lead Service Line Replacement Program to meet the federal deadline, potentially replacing up to 60,000 pipes when including private properties. Columbus Water and Power says residents rarely experience lead exposure thanks to robust water filtration systems. The city is now simplifying compliance by allowing residents to verify non-lead pipes through photos rather than hiring contractors.
🎤 Featured Event: Use Code "localbrew"
The Memorial Hop - May 28th
⛳️ Network with Columbus's finest at Business Hop 3.0. This invitation-only gathering connects 75 mentors with 225 rising stars during Memorial Tournament week at Muirfield Village. Guests enjoy premium food and drinks while building meaningful relationships across three unique venues. Beyond valuable connections, the event also provides support to our community, with 10% of event proceeds support My Village Ministries.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Luxury Split-Level Ballantrae Beauty: Priced at $750,000, this Bob Webb-built 5-level split in Ballantrae features hardwood floors, soaring ceilings, and modern amenities like a stunning kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances.
Tudor Gem Dublin Schools Location: Priced at $485,000, this Tudor-style Dublin Schools home boasts 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, updated kitchen with granite countertops, family room with brick fireplace, and spacious backyard perfect for summer entertaining.
Luxurious estate with golf bonus: Priced at $1,295,000, this home features a $200K renovated backyard oasis with mature trees, patios, and putting green, plus a spacious interior with a first-floor primary suite and multiple versatile rooms on the lower level.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
|
|