Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Franklin County / September 18, 2025

🏛️ Courthouse makeover

Franklin County • September 18, 2025

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Good morning, Franklin County. The skyline of Columbus is transforming before our eyes. A sleek new $280 million courthouse design has been unveiled for downtown, set to replace the aging Karnes building and fenced-off Dorrian Commons Park. This eight-story, 340,000-square-foot project represents one of the most significant public investments in our urban core since voters first approved initial funding back in 2020.

Meanwhile, the real estate market continues to show remarkable resilience, with a Hampton Inn on Hamilton Road changing hands for a cool $5.2 million. That transaction was just one highlight in a week that saw a $2.3 million New Albany home top the residential charts and an $8.25 million Alzheimer's facility lead commercial deals. On a less celebratory note, local authorities made headlines after a late-night raid at Natural Nails and Gels Salon netted drugs, weapons, and multiple arrests.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🏨 Hampton Inn on Hamilton Road sells for $5.2 million. The Columbus property was among top real estate transactions reported in central Ohio counties from September 1-5, 2025. Franklin County's residential market showed strength with a $2.3 million New Albany home topping the list, while commercial properties saw even bigger deals including an $8.25 million Columbus Alzheimer's facility. Delaware County recorded luxury home sales reaching $1.7 million, but Licking and Fairfield counties reported no valid transactions during this period. The data provides a snapshot of current real estate activity across the greater Columbus region.

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🏛️ Downtown Columbus unveils sleek design for new $280 million courthouse. The eight-story, 340,000-square-foot building will replace the fenced-off Dorrian Commons Park and the aging Karnes building at East Mound and South High streets. Plans have been in motion since 2020 when voters approved initial funding of $130 million, with the city adding another $150 million in 2024. The Downtown Commission will review the design concept at its September 23 meeting. Once completed, the current Municipal Court building from 1979 will likely be renovated for another purpose.

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🚨 Police bust nail salon party, seize drugs and guns. Columbus authorities arrested three people at Natural Nails and Gels Salon after responding to reports of a large gathering around 1:00 a.m. Sunday. Officers discovered 1.5 pounds of marijuana, 100 Oxycodone pills, two weapons, and drug paraphernalia during the business license check. Owner Eric Poe faces charges for obstruction and operating without a license, while Dante Jenkins and Steve Wilborn face multiple drug and weapons charges. Wilborn, a convicted felon, is additionally charged with illegal firearm possession.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Downtown Luxury Near Short North: Priced at $489,900, this 1,482 sq. ft. corner unit in Downtown Columbus features 2 bedrooms, 10-foot ceilings, granite countertops, a private balcony, and secure parking, with easy access to Huntington Park and Short North attractions.
Real estate listing image Grove City gem near park: Discover this $235,000 Grove City condo featuring an open layout with modern touches, including a white-washed fireplace, stainless appliances, and a versatile finished basement, all conveniently located near Gantz Park and I-270.
Real estate listing image Historic farmhouse awaits new life: Priced at $699,900, this Mid-1800s farmhouse on 10.29 acres offers historic charm with potential for residential or commercial use, featuring three bedrooms, outbuildings, and proximity to Canal Winchester.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎭 Sep. 18 - Lotta Laughs Comedy Night: Laugh until your sides ache at "Lotta Laughs with Larry" on September 18! This isn't just comedy—it's a full-blown vibe at The Attic Comedy Club, 892 Oak St, Columbus.
🎪 Sep. 19 - Cap City Festival Fun: Join the fun at Cap City Festival in Maloney Park on Sep 19! Soak up free entertainment and neighborhood vibes at this beloved community celebration, continuing a decade-long tradition of bringing Columbus together.
🏞️ Sep. 19 - Scioto Fest Fun: Dive into summer fun at Scioto Fest, kicking off with Yappy Hour and climbing wall adventures! Join the community celebration at Scioto Audubon Metro Park on September 19 starting at 5pm.
🍷 Sep. 19 - North Market Wine Fest: Raise your glass at North Market Wine Fest! Sip and sample your way through Bridge Park in Dublin on September 19-20, 2025. The perfect weekend outing for wine enthusiasts.
🥃 Sep. 20 - Watershed's Bourbon Celebration: Raise your glass at Watershed Distillery's Bourbonfest! Columbus' own craft distillery celebrates 15 years of spirited success on Saturday, September 20 at 5 p.m. at their Chesapeake Avenue location.
🍽️ Sep. 20 - Taste of Downtown Crawl: Savor the flavors of Columbus at the inaugural Taste of Downtown! Sample offerings from 30+ local spots as you stroll through downtown on September 20 at Columbus Commons. Your ultimate food crawl awaits!
🌈 Sep. 20 - Northland Unity Festival: Celebrate community spirit at the Northland Unity Festival in Woodward Park on Sep 20! Join Columbus Safety Collective to sign petitions, meet neighbors, and enjoy festive activities in this vibrant gathering.
🍺 Sep. 20 - Oktoberfest Market Celebration: Raise your steins at Columbus Brewing Company's Oktoberfest Market! Enjoy beer, food, live music, and family-friendly fun (including face painting) all day on September 20th at 200 Kelton Ave.
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