Good morning, Westerville. A historic transformation is underway on Mount Vernon Avenue, where $3 million in safety improvements will soon reshape one of Columbus's culturally significant corridors. The ambitious makeover includes separated bike lanes, concrete medians, and shortened crossing distances—continuing the revitalization efforts that have already reduced accidents in this vibrant African American neighborhood since 2021.
With just one week until Election Day, the countdown clock is ticking loudly for voters facing crucial decisions on five Columbus bond issues and multiple tax levies. Meanwhile, the tech innovators of tomorrow are preparing to shine at Lorain County's seventh annual TECH CORPS Hackathon, where high schoolers will develop mobile apps addressing real community challenges. Last year's winning team created an app focused on water sustainability—proving that even without coding experience, young minds can build solutions that make a difference.
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84%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🛣️ Mount Vernon Avenue gets a $3 million safety makeover. Columbus City Council approved funding for improvements along Mount Vernon Avenue aimed at making it safer for all travelers. The project includes separated bike lanes, concrete medians, and bump-outs to shorten crossing distances between Hamilton and North Champion avenues. With $500,000 from safe routes funding and $3 million from the Ohio Department of Transportation, the city will also fix sidewalks, repair curbs and improve signals. Council members emphasized this investment continues the revitalization of a historic African American neighborhood, building on improvements since 2021 that have already reduced crashes.
🗳️ Columbus voters face crucial decisions with just one week left. The November 4 ballot features five city bond issues that could reshape Columbus's future, alongside contested races for City Council and school board positions. Franklin County residents will vote on two countywide tax levies: one supporting mental health services (ADAMH) and another for the Columbus Zoo. Suburban voters will decide on various local issues including school bonds, tax increases, and development referendums. Early voting continues through Sunday, with mail-in ballot requests due by October 28.
💻 Lorain County students to code for change at upcoming hackathon. High schoolers will compete in the seventh annual TECH CORPS Hackathon on November 8 at Lorain County Community College, creating mobile apps that address real-world community issues. The free event, supported by the Nordson Corporation Foundation's recent $1 million investment, requires no prior experience and focuses on building technology skills and teamwork. Last year's winning team developed an app called Hydro Fact focused on water access and sustainability. TECH CORPS is currently seeking volunteers to help with the event, with registration available on their website.
🎤 Featured Event of the Week
Turtle Island: Native American Heritage Month
Where: Westerville Public Library, 126 S State St, Westerville, OH
When: Nov 1
🐢 Celebrate the rich heritage of Indigenous peoples during Native American Heritage Month at Westerville Public Library's special "Turtle Island" event on November 1st. This educational gathering explores the significance of "Turtle Island," a name used by some Indigenous peoples to describe North America, based on creation stories where the continent formed on a giant turtle's back. Visitors will learn about this powerful cultural narrative and its importance to Native American heritage through engaging presentations and colorful displays. Come discover the deep historical roots and vibrant traditions of North America's first inhabitants at this community-focused celebration.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Wooded Estate Cherry Cabinetry Galore: Priced at $449,900, this open-concept home in New Albany-Plain Local School District features a first-floor owner's suite, cherry cabinetry kitchen, finished lower level with bar, and private wooded backyard views from 23 windows.
Spacious wooded Columbus area home: Nestled in Westerville, this updated 5-bedroom home is priced at $444,900, offering 2,142 SF of living space, a finished basement, and a deck overlooking wooded grounds, all within 20 minutes of downtown Columbus.
Spacious Highland Lakes dream home: Priced at $539,900, this meticulously maintained Highland Lakes ranch home offers one-floor living with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, a great room with cathedral ceiling, and a spacious updated kitchen, plus a bonus finished lower level.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
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