Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Fairfield County / July 15, 2025

🚧 Overpass at last

Fairfield County • July 15, 2025

Local Brew Logo
​

Good morning, Fairfield County. After years of tragedy at what officials call the county's most dangerous intersection, U.S. 33 and Pickerington Road is finally getting a life-saving transformation. Construction began Monday on an overpass system designed to eliminate the deadly stop-and-go accidents that have claimed multiple lives, including a 33-year-old driver earlier this year. While the full project won't be completed until 2028, the work represents a critical investment in community safety—though it comes too late for 23-year-old Austin Mathias, who lost his life Sunday in another tragic collision along U.S. 33.

For those seeking a momentary escape from sobering headlines, the Pickerington Community Theatre is bringing some fairy tale magic to town. "Shrek the Musical" runs through July 20 at the Wigwam Event Center, where an all-volunteer cast and crew are transforming the beloved 2001 film into a vibrant live experience. Director Chris Gallaugher promises more singing, dancing, and humor that appeals to audiences of all ages—proving that even ogres need a little stage time.

🌤 Sky Skoop

LancasterWeather Icon
69°
86°
rain 81%
PickeringtonWeather Icon
70°
86°
rain 66%
ReynoldsburgWeather Icon
71°
87°
rain 0%
Canal WinchesterWeather Icon
70°
86°
rain 66%
BaltimoreWeather Icon
70°
86°
rain 66%

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

Brewing Locally Image

🚦 Deadly intersection finally getting life-saving upgrades after years of crashes. The U.S. 33 and Pickerington Road intersection in Fairfield County, Ohio—identified as the county's most dangerous—will be transformed into an overpass system similar to other successful interchanges. Construction began Monday on the project, which aims to eliminate dangerous stop-and-go accidents that have claimed multiple lives, including a 33-year-old driver earlier this year. While initial work is starting now, major construction will ramp up next summer with completion expected in 2028.

Read more

💥 Tragic rear-end collision claims young man's life in Fairfield County. Austin Mathias, 23, was killed Sunday afternoon when a Mazda truck failed to maintain proper distance and struck his Ford Ranger from behind on U.S. 33. The impact forced Mathias's pickup off the roadway, where it hit a traffic signpost and overturned, according to Ohio State Highway Patrol. The 21-year-old Mazda driver was evaluated at Fairfield Medical Center and later released. Authorities continue to investigate the fatal crash that occurred near mile marker 23 in Berne Township.

Read more

🧚‍♂️ Pickerington brings Shrek's swampy world to vibrant theatrical life. The Pickerington Community Theatre is staging "Shrek the Musical" through July 20 at the Wigwam Event Center, featuring all the beloved fairytale characters from the 2001 film. Director Chris Gallaugher promises a fun experience with more singing, dancing, and humor that appeals to both children and adults. The all-volunteer cast and crew share a special connection to the material, with actor Taylor Oberschlake fulfilling her dream of playing Fiona while bringing fresh interpretations to the iconic characters. The production offers audiences a chance to experience the "Big Bright Beautiful World" of Shrek in a new, musical format.

Read more

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Spacious ranch with modern amenities: Priced at $500,000, this updated Canal Winchester ranch sits on 1.5 pastoral acres with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen, sunroom, and workshop-equipped three-car garage—all just minutes from amenities.
Real estate listing image Spacious dream on acreage: Priced at $619,900, this stunning two-story home on 1.44 acres features four bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a brick fireplace, upgraded kitchen, and private backyard with a large deck.
Real estate listing image Budget Starter Home Ready Now: This budget-friendly 2-bedroom charmer in Lancaster School District offers a cozy layout, 1-car garage, and fully fenced yard for just $162,900—a perfect opportunity for first-time buyers, downsizers, or investors.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🏛️ Jul. 16 - Children's Museum Open Day: Join the fun at AHA! Children's Museum on July 16! The museum welcomes public walk-ins while a small group visits, offering hands-on adventures for curious kiddos at 1708 River Valley Circle South in Lancaster.
🌟 Jul. 16 - Step Up Quality Lab: Need SUTQ guidance? Drop by Fairfield County's Working Lab at the District Library on July 16! Child care programs can get all their Step Up to Quality questions answered in this helpful session.
📚 Jul. 17 - Fairfield County Chapter Meeting: Connect with fellow genealogy enthusiasts at the Fairfield County Chapter meeting on July 17! Join the gathering at 503 Lenwood Drive in Lancaster with refreshments at 6:30pm followed by the 7pm meeting.
🏛️ Jul. 17 - Children's Museum Open Day: Join the fun at AHA! Children's Museum on July 17! The museum welcomes walk-ins from the public while a small group visits, offering hands-on adventures for curious kiddos at 1708 River Valley Circle.
🎸 Jul. 17 - Rockhouse 39 Benefit Concert: Rock out for a good cause at Rockhouse 39! Catch thrilling performances by I Against No One, Stars Will Fall, and Brotality on July 17 at 1377 Old Logan Rd, Lancaster.
🦎 Jul. 18 - Reptile Adventures: Slither into adventure at Fairfield County District Library! Join Paul's Cool Scales on July 18 for an up-close encounter with fascinating reptiles from around the world. Perfect for fans of all things scaly and crawly!
🍦 Jul. 18 - Republican Ice Cream Social: Cool off with the Fairfield County Republicans at their Annual Ice Cream Social during the Lancaster Art Walk! Join the sweet community gathering on July 18 at 104 E Main St.
🎄 Jul. 19 - Christmas Craft & Vendor Sale: Beat the heat with Christmas cheer at the 4-H Craft & Vendor Sale! Browse unique handmade gifts and festive treasures on July 19 at the Fairfield County Agricultural Center in Lancaster.

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD.

-Psalm 31:24

{% if subscriber.rh_reflink != blank %}

Share with friends, get cool stuff, grow local!

Have friends who'd love our newsletter too? Give them your unique referral link (below) and get an awesome local reward when they subscribe.

{{subscriber.rh_reflink}}

PS: You have referred {{subscriber.rh_totref}} people so far

{% endif %}
Instagram

Interested in advertising? Get in touch.

Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up here.

Update your email preferences or unsubscribe here

← Previous
🎸 Rocking despite rain
Next →
🌧️ Stormy comebacks