"Building program put on ice" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Building program put on ice
Mark Ferenchik
The Columbus Dispatch
June 21, 2008

The city's suspension of a program to spur new home construction in Franklinton illustrates how difficult it is to lure builders into a struggling neighborhood in a bad market.

But it also indicates that some builders might be scared away because of standards neighborhood leaders demand for those new homes.

Mayor Michael B. Coleman's development department is moving incentives that had been targeted for Franklinton through his Home Again program to the South Side, to lure builders to an area east of Parsons Avenue and south of Mooberry Street, department spokeswoman Cynthia Rickman said...

From the Bottoms Up: Rethinking Columbus’ First Neighborhood

The Ohio State University
Knowlton School of Architecture
City and Regional Planning Program
cordially invites you to attend

From the Bottoms Up:Rethinking Columbus’ First Neighborhood
presented by
The Ohio State University
City and Regional Planning Master Candidates
under the direction of
Adjunct Professors
Kimberly Gibson
Christopher Hermann, AICP

Columbus Firefighters Union Hal l (Local 67)
Former Toledo and Ohio Central Rai lroad Station
397 West Broad Street
Columbus, OH
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
6:30 p.m.
R.s.v.p. by Tuesday, May 20

EastFranklinton@gmail.com

Complimentary parking available in the adjacent Spaghetti Warehouse lot

About Franklinton:

Franklinton, founded in 1797 by Lucas Sullivant, is the oldest neighborhood in the City of Columbus. Located along the west bank of the Scioto River, Franklinton boomed for many decades despite continually falling victim to river f loods. However, following four days of major flooding in 1913 that caused unprecedented amounts of damage and loss of life, residents and business began to abandon Franklinton. Continual disinvestment in Franklinton since then has left the neighborhood plagued by high levels of crime, unemployment and poverty. With the completion of the Franklinton Floodwall Project in 2004 the threat of future flooding has been alleviated leaving Franklinton poised and ready for redevelopment.

About the Master Plan:

The Franklinton Development Association (FDA) has requested OSU City and Regional Planning Master Candidate students prepare a master plan for East Franklinton to spark development interest in this economically distressed subsection of Franklinton. East Franklinton’s boundaries are def ined by SR-315 (west), the Scioto River (south) and CSX and Norfolk Southern railroad tracks (north and east). This presentation represents the culmination of an intensive, ten week long studio.

"Contract to allow purchase of Cooper Stadium signed" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Contract to allow purchase of Cooper Stadium signed
Barbara Carmen
The Columbus Dispatch
May 6, 2008

William J. Schottenstein got his signed contract today to buy Cooper Stadium for $3.3 million, but only after some last-minute changes to calm a case of seller's nerves.

Commissioner Paula Brooks said she'd first seen the draft contract Thursday and questioned why the deal was being rushed.

But Commissioner Marilyn Brown said the board got the contract two weeks ago and that lawyers brokering the deal for the county had then offered to meet with each commissioner...

"Schottenstein pitch for Cooper Stadium grabs commissioners' interest" Business First of Columbus

Link: Schottenstein pitch for Cooper Stadium grabs commissioners' interest
Business First of Columbus
May 1, 2008

Columbus developer William Schottenstein wants to turn county-owned Cooper Stadium into a motorsports complex.

Franklin County commissioners said Thursday they will sign a purchase agreement in which King Holding Corp., an affiliate of Schottenstein's Arshot Investment Corp., will buy the 46-acre stadium site for $3.3 million.

The agreement, which the commissioners plan to sign May 6, includes a number of development contingencies, said Commissioner Marilyn Brown. Among them is determining if a motorsports facility - including the level of noise to be generated by racing events - is a compatible use for the site on Columbus' west side...

"Plan envisions race track at Cooper Stadium" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Plan envisions race track at Cooper Stadium
Barbara Carmen and Mark Znidar
The Columbus Dispatch
May 1, 2008

The home of the Columbus Clippers — called everything from The Coop to Jets Stadium since 1931 — might become a small Thunder Valley.

“All the stars have to align,” one county official noted.

Franklin County's deal to sell its old ballpark to Arshot Investment Corp. for $3.3 million could take 17 months to close and hinges on contractual “ifs” that could kill the deal. Among the contingencies: Arshot wants a 100 percent tax abatement for 10 years from Columbus.

But both seller and prospective buyer envision a motorsports complex with nice restaurants and a speedway, drag strip and go-kart track that would lure hot-rod races, car clubs and rallies...

Mayor and Council Join Franklinton Development Association to Dedicate Newly-built Home

For immediate release
April 29, 2008
Contact:  Mike Brown, Mayor’s Office, 614-645-6428
Cynthia Rickman, Development, 614-645-8795
Jim Sweeney, Franklinton Development Association, 614-275-4988

(Columbus)  Efforts continue to build and sell new, quality homes in Columbus’ oldest neighborhood, and the Franklinton Development Association today invited Mayor Michael B. Coleman, neighborhood leaders and residents to join them in cutting the ribbon on the first of three new homes that they are building.

“We’re beginning to make a difference, one house at a time throughout the neighborhood, because of the efforts of partners like the Franklinton Development Association, and it isn’t just the visible improvement from programs like Home Again, but also the growing neighborhood pride,” said Mayor Coleman.

Located at 40 Martin Avenue, the new 1,488 square-foot house has three bedrooms and 2½ baths and has already been sold for $110,000.  It was constructed by Saad Enterprises and the Franklinton Development Association, who plans to build two more houses on Dakota Avenue and on West Park Avenue.

“The Franklinton Development Association is very pleased to have completed our first new house in Franklinton.  Several programs and partners came together to make this a great house that is also affordable.  We’re especially pleased to be selling the house to Karen Drake, a Franklinton resident who has worked for many months to prepare for homeownership,” said Jim Sweeney, executive director of the Franklinton Development Association.

The City of Columbus provided $55,000 toward the construction and for down payment assistance.  The house is located in a Neighborhood Investment District, which makes the property owner eligible for a 10-year property tax abatement.

“In 1993 a group of Franklinton residents and three Franklinton non-profits formed the Franklinton Development Association to improve homeownership for Franklinton residents and to get boarded up houses back into use. Mount Carmel donated the lot this new house is built on. What a positive result of that gift.  Homeownership is very important to us as we go into the future,” said Carol Stewart a Franklinton resident and Area Commissioner.

The house will aid in the neighborhood’s momentum and the overall revitalization on and around Martin Avenue, where the City’s Home Again program has focused on home rehabilitation.

In 2008, the Home Again program plans to:

• Build and rehab 50 properties
• Help demolish 90 vacant and blighted properties
• Help 84 residents stay in their homes with emergency roof repairs
• Refer 220 nuisance cases to the City Attorney’s Office for legal action

The City completed 24 of the Home Again Properties in Franklinton, including 18 rehabbed homes (15 sold and one in contract) and six new homes, built with Habitat for Humanity.

“As the sponsor of the Housing Preservation Fund which supports the Home Again Initiative of the Mayor I am very proud of the work our  housing and community develop partner, Franklinton Development Assoc. is doing to create homeownership, community revitalization and a continuum of housing options in Franklinton. New housing brings new residents and excitement to our first Columbus community", said Councilmember Charleta Tavares, chair of the Health, Housing and Human Services Committee.

“This is good news and a great addition to the Franklinton neighborhood," said State Representative Dan Stewart, "and shows how public, private and non-profits can work together to help rebuild communities."

In 2007, Home Again was responsible for initiating 84 roof repair cases; demolished 27 properties and another 86 were demolished by the City and private owners.  To date, 600 properties have been impacted at a cost of $10,000,000 through Home Again.
Also, the City’s Neighborhood Pride Program kicked off last week on the North Side of Columbus and will conclude 2008 in Franklinton, its 60th neighborhood this fall.

"Franklinton Residents Push For Rebirth" nbc4i.com

Link: Franklinton Residents Push For Rebirth
Denise Yost
nbc4i.com
April 3, 2008

...For the first time in years, the neighborhood is rebuilding, and several local and state agencies are helping to rehabilitate houses and build new ones along streets like West Park Avenue.

"People interested in moving here are surprised by the quality of houses you can get out here and quality of people out here," said Jim Sweeney, of Franklinton Development Association.

But the rebirth hasn't come without challenges. Just this week, a home was stripped of wiring and coils totaling more than $2,000...

"Franklinton revitalization project sits idle" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Franklinton revitalization project sits idle
Robert Vitale
The Columbus Dispatch
March 23, 2008

...Nearly a year after Mayor Michael B. Coleman announced a $23 million privately funded project to turn land around the former B&T Metals plant into loft condos and apartments, town houses, gallery space and a small theater, little has changed in the three-block area west of Downtown.

Los Angeles developer Lance Robbins, who envisions the neighborhood as a moderately priced artists' colony, says his plan is still a go.

But the B&T building is still roofless, propped up with wooden beams and fenced off to protect both the property and passers-by...

"Franklinton nabs 600 jobs through state office consolidation" Business First of Columbus

Link: Franklinton nabs 600 jobs through state office consolidation
account required
Brian Ball
Business First of Columbus
January 18, 2008

Franklinton will gain 600 state employees as neighbors and customers this summer when the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections consolidates its Columbus offices.

The state prison system will begin relocating from three office buildings on Freeway Drive by July 1 to the building at 770 W. Broad St. The consolidation also will see the Ohio Adult Parole Authority moved to the neighborhood from Alum Creek Drive south of Bexley.

The state Controlling Board, a legislative agency that monitors state spending, in December approved a deal between the department and 770 West Broad AGA LLC, the tentative buyer of the former National City Bank operations center. Terms of the proposed lease call for the state to pay $760,000 in fiscal 2009 for 156,000 square feet of office space after getting free rent from July through October under the accord with the new landlord, an affiliate of Columbus investor-developer Anchor Cos...

McKinley Avenue to Reopen to Two-Way Traffic

$13.7 million Improvements Nearly Complete in Franklinton

press release
(Columbus) Flood-prone McKinley Avenue, between Souder and Central avenues, is scheduled to re-open to westbound traffic [last] Thursday afternoon now that major drainage and roadway improvements are nearly complete.

The City spent $13.7 million to install new storm sewers on McKinley, widen the road from two lanes to three and reconstruct several nearby streets.

“McKinley is one of the most productive employment districts in the urban core,” Mayor Michael B. Coleman said. “These improvements will help businesses retain gobs and grow.”

Besides improving McKinley, the City also addressed drainage problems on Hartford Avenue and John Street. Hartford also was reconstructed to a curbed street from McKinley and John, and John was reconstructed to a curbed street.

“We are extremely pleased with the improvement and grateful for the City’s support in pushing this project through,” said Steel Hutchinson, president of CSF Chemicals and the McKinley Avenue Employers Association. “We expect to see improved traffic flow and better handling of storm-water run off, which will make it safer for the large trucks and buses that travel McKinley daily.”

The Ohio Public Works Commission contributed $2.3 million to the project. The balance was financed with voted bond funds. Work on the project started in August 2006.

"Homes not right fit for neighborhood, leaders say" The Columbus Dispatch

From vs. Function: This is a tough line to balance to strike in a neighborhood that is not seeing much in the way of new development. If the price point of average home values is low like it is in Franklinton, it is hard to build what you'd like to see in the neighborhood versus what can be reasonably built and sold. There is no easy answer and I can see both sides of the argument but the solution eludes me at first glance:

Link: Homes not right fit for neighborhood, leaders say
Mark Ferenchik
The Columbus Dispatch
October 28, 2007

..."We would rather see a green space than to put up something that doesn't match the neighboring houses," she said.

Gazzara said neighborhood leaders' requirements that he build houses with garages, basements and porches would make his homes unaffordable.

If nothing else, this episode is another example of the difficulties of building in the city's core, especially Franklinton, where builders couldn't go until the massive floodwall around it was finished in 2004...

"City offering cleaning tools to clear graffiti" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: City offering cleaning tools to clear graffiti
Mark Ferenchik
The Columbus Dispatch
October 1, 2007

Beginning today, Columbus code-enforcement officers will be scouting an area in Franklinton for graffiti on privately owned, occupied buildings.

Then they will send letters to the owners asking them to clean off the paint. It's only encouragement because the city has no laws to force owners to clean up graffiti.

The letters tell property owners they can borrow tools and paint from the city's mobile-tool library at 614-645-8542. They also can contact the Keep Columbus Beautiful program at 614-645-8027 to ask about volunteer groups that remove graffiti...

"Sale of Cooper Stadium falls through" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Sale of Cooper Stadium falls through
Barbara Carmen
The Columbus Dispatch
September 7, 2007

Plans for a motorcycle Mecca at Cooper Stadium have collapsed, so Franklin County is once again on the market for a buyer with big dreams -- and preferably, jobs.

"For Sale" ads have started running in local trade journals and over the Internet, praising the ballpark's features. The 46-acre site comes with a historic building, a breathtaking view of the skyline and quiet neighbors. Three cemeteries edge the park.

Two caveats: The property is valued at $3.25 million to $3.7 million...

"Bank laying off local workers" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Bank laying off local workers
Mike Pramik
The Columbus Dispatch
September 8, 2007

National City Corp. plans to close its Franklinton operations center in November and either reassign or lay off an undisclosed number of workers, the Cleveland bank said yesterday.

A National City spokeswoman did not say how many employees work at the center at 770 W. Broad St., but some are being offered jobs at other locations. Others are being offered severance packages.

National City has similar centers in Cleveland and Chicago. One employee said mailroom operations were being moved to the bank's Columbus headquarters at 155 E. Broad St., although spokeswoman Kelly Wagner Amen would not confirm the move or offer details...

"Franklinton rehabs bring in some new life" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Franklinton rehabs bring in some new life.
Mark Ferenchik
The Columbus Dispatch
July 28, 2007

Jessica Fritz and Jeremy Pifer, engaged to be married, were to close on the house yesterday afternoon and begin moving in.

Some might question whether they had followed the real-estate adage about "location." Their new home is at 154 Martin Ave. in Franklinton, one of Columbus' poorest neighborhoods.

However, it is one of five on Martin -- four single-family homes and a duplex -- that have been stripped to the studs and completely renovated. They're part of the city's $25 million Home Again program to rehabilitate, or tear down and replace, 1,000 abandoned, downtrodden properties...

Mayor Coleman kicks off National Home ownership month in Franklinton

(Columbus) Three new houses are currently under construction on a street in Franklinton that has not seen new housing construction in decades and today Mayor Michael B. Coleman, along with officials from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Habitat for Humanity-Greater Columbus and the Columbus Board of REALTORSâ kicked off National Homeownership Month.  The house, located at 199 Guilford Avenue, is one of four houses that Habitat will build on Guilford this year.  Habitat plans to build at least six new homes in Franklinton in 2007.

“These new houses symbolize the rebirth of Franklinton and will add to the revitalization efforts that are currently underway.  I am pleased with Habitat’s vision to build houses in one of Columbus’ oldest neighborhoods,” said Mayor Coleman.

Mayor Coleman kicked off the city’s “Home Again” program last year in Franklinton, which is a five-point plan of action to eradicate vacant and abandoned properties in Columbus’ neighborhoods:  Prevention, Enforcement, Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Demolition. The Mayor has committed $25 million over the next five years to attack vacant and abandoned houses Columbus.  In 2007, the City plans to impact more than 500 properties, including roof repairs, furnaces, acquisition, rehab or demolition.  In 2006, 100 residents had roofs replaced, 27 properties were demolished by the City and 52 were demolished by private owners.

“When we increase home ownership we strengthen families and we strengthen Columbus,” said Councilmember Charleta Tavares, chair of the Health, Housing and Human Services Committee.  “Habitat for Humanity-Greater Columbus is not just building homes, they are rebuilding a neighborhood.”

"Last year, we as Habitat for Humanity-Greater Columbus were pleased to build the first new home constructed in the Franklinton area in over 40 years.  This year, in partnership with the City of Columbus and in recognition of Mayor Coleman's efforts with the "Home Again" program that includes 20 properties in the area, we are delighted to be constructing no less than six homes on the streets of Franklinton in 2007.  Together, we fulfill the dream of home ownership and community revitalization, both at the same time," said E.J. Thomas, Executive Director.

HFHGC proudly partners with the City of Columbus Department of Development, Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati and HUD’s SHOP (Self Help Ownership Program) in addition to our faith and corporate sponsors who work together to make homeownership a reality for Habitat partner families.

"If you ask anyone what the word ‘home’ means, you'll get a broad range of answers -- a place to gather with family and friends, stability, an escape from the world, etc., says Brad Bennett, president of the Columbus Board of REALTORS®. And, as diverse as these answers might be, they all have one important thing in common -- it is and has always been the American Dream to own a home of your own. Today, we celebrate the Arminta Holland family in achieving their American Dream."

According to Thomas Leach, Columbus HUD Field Office Director, "Our Nation celebrates National Homeownership Month every June. Homeownership builds wealth, and creates healthier families and stronger communities on Guilford Avenue, throughout Columbus and across our nation. HUD and FHA are proud to work with Mayor Coleman, Habitat for Humanity and our other partners to bring the American Dream of Homeownership to thousands of families in Columbus."

The City of Columbus provided $30,000 toward the construction of the house.  Since the houses are located in a Neighborhood Investment District (NID), the properties are eligible for a 15-year/100% residential tax abatement.

Franklinton Art Yard Sale: FAD no.3

Link: The Franklinton Arts District.

The Latest FAD no.3: FRANKLINTON ART YARD SALE
Hosted by The Franklinton Arts District
This Saturday, 2 June 2007  10am-5pm

The Latest FAD no.3 is taking place as part of the Franklinton Yard Sale, which is in turn part of The National Road Yard Sale. Our objective is to make the Columbus art community aware of the Franklinton neighborhood, and in turn make art a part of the existing Franklinton area. 

"Franklinton a fresh start for developer" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Franklinton a fresh start for developer
Monday, April 30, 2007
Debbie Gebolys and Robert Vitale
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH 

Across the street from the crumbling factory building he plans to turn into artists' studios and trendy condos, Lance Robbins stood with the people who guide development in Columbus and was hailed as a savior for Franklinton.

Mayor Michael B. Coleman applauded the Los Angeles businessman's vision for the long-stagnant neighborhood and counted him among those "bringing new hope to the historic heart of Columbus."

City officials and neighborhood leaders are counting on Robbins to help revive a section of the city long passed over by other developers. Two weeks ago, he announced his plan to spend $23 million at and around the former B &T Metals plant at W. Town and Lucas streets...

"Demolition, not renewal, may be next for building" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Demolition, not renewal, may be next for building
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Debbie Gebolys
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

The former Franklinton factory that the mayor and community leaders herald as a new beginning for a depressed neighborhood could be razed within days.

City officials issued emergency orders Thursday declaring that B &T Metals, 425 W. Town St., "presents an unreasonable and imminent threat to the life or safety of any person or persons in the surrounding area."

Owners have until Sunday to come up with a plan to make the building safe or hire a licensed contractor to demolish it.

Only two weeks ago, Los Angeles developer Lance Robbins was announcing $23 million in plans to rebuild B &T and three other city blocks between Town and Rich streets immediately west of the CSX railroad tracks...

Franklinton Arts District

Visit the Web site: http://franklintonartsdistrict.org

GROUNBREAKING CEREMONY SCHEDULED FOR COLUMBUS FIRE STATION 10

City’s First "Green"€ Fire Station to meet Environmentally Friendly “LEED” Standards

(Columbus)  With shovels in hand, City officials will break ground for a historic new fire station to replace the City’s oldest operating fire station in the historic Franklinton area.  Fire Station #10 is setting a new “green” standard for City Capital Improvement Projects, because it is the City’s very first LEED Certified construction project.

The groundbreaking ceremony for Fire Station 10 will be held on Monday, April 23, 2007 at 11:00 a.m., Columbus Fire Chief Ned Pettus, Jr. announced today.  Mayor Michael B. Coleman, Public Safety Director Mitchell J. Brown, Finance and Management Director Joel S. Taylor, City Council President Michael C. Mentel, City Councilmembers Andrew J. Ginther, Kevin L. Boyce and Fire Chief Ned Pettus, Jr. will participate at the construction site located at 1080 W. Broad Street. 

“Our firefighters deserve great facilities like the modern fire station we’re building in historic Franklinton, and we are proud to get construction started,” said Mayor Michael B. Coleman.  “We are moving forward on our Capital plan to replace aging stations like Fire #10 and build new ones for growth corridors, like Fire Station #35 that is being designed right now.  Fire Station #10 is the fifth that we’ve build since 2000, but it is also the first to ever be built to environmentally friendly green LEED standards.”

The building’s architectural design meets Franklinton’s historic look while achieving modern LEED Certification. In keeping with the Mayor’s Green Memo, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a voluntary independent green building rating system. Buildings meeting LEED standards minimize negative environmental impacts and maximize energy efficiency and sustainability.  There will also be a community memorial dedicated to fallen FF Maurice Gates as well as an interior fire fighter project dedicated to FS# 10 history.

The new station will replace the existing station at 1096 West Broad Street.  The new building will be a single story structure at the size of 21,428 square feet.  The construction cost of the new station is $4,454,208.  The project is expected to be completed by October of 2008.

The existing fire station was constructed in 1896 at a cost of $22,139.  The cost included six horses, harnesses, furnishings, hose and apparatus.  The station was converted to motorized vehicles in 1913.  The building is currently 10,049 square feet.  The building will now become property of the City of Columbus.   

FACTS ON NEW FIRE STATION 10

• Located at 1080 W. Broad Street
• Construction cost is $4,454,208.00
• Expected completion date is October 2008
• Size of building will be 21,428 square feet
• Green Elements: energy efficient lighting, HVAC systems, water usage efficiency, recycled materials, triple pane windows, polished concrete floors, and insulation
• Station will have 4 apparatus bays.
• Staffing will include an Engine, Ladder and Medic Company.
• Running District:
  • King Avenue on the North
  • Washington Blvd. on the East
  • Wilson Road on the West
  • Frank Road on the South

"Developer plans condos on B&T Metals site" Business First of Columbus

Link: Developer plans condos on B&T Metals site
Business First of Columbus
April 16th, 2007

...The city said Brick Investment Corp. plans to transform the site at 435 W. Town St. into 130 residences, a small arts theater, gallery space, retail, a coffee shop and office space.

Housing construction for the $23 million project is expected to begin later this year, the city said.

Mayor Michael B. Coleman plans to ask city council to approve a $175,000 Clean Ohio grant for environmental assessment at the site...

Mayor Coleman and Council Announce New Housing Development in Franklinton

press release from Mayor's office
130 residential units and arts space to fill industrial site

(Columbus)  In its heyday, B&T Metals, at 435 W. Town Street in historic Franklinton, employed 500 workers and made aluminum products ranging from carpet strips to door frames and exterior weather stripping.  Today, Mayor Michael B. Coleman, City Councilmember Kevin Boyce and Franklinton residents joined with Lance Robbins’ development team from Brick Investment Corporation and affiliate Urban Smart Growth to announce plans to transform the manufacturing site into 130 new residences along with a creative center comprised of a small arts theater, gallery space, retail, coffee shop, and unique office space.

“We are bringing new hope to the historic heart of Columbus, and I’m proud to see developers like Brick Investment coming in with a vision for condos and artists lofts in Franklinton,” said Mayor Coleman.  “While this is the toughest kind of neighborhood development, we are getting results and slowly bringing back the pride and confidence of our founding forefathers.”

Mayor Coleman will ask City Council to approve $175,000 in Clean Ohio Grant funds for a Phase 2 environmental assessment at the site in the coming weeks.  Clean up of the site is expected to begin later this year, with housing construction expected in 2008.

"B&T is set to make history again,” said Councilmember Kevin Boyce.  “The company's owners were pioneers in the African-American business community and now B&T will help make history by revitalizing Franklinton with this development."

When founded in 1932, B&T Metals was among the first manufacturing plants in the nation owned and operated by an African-American family.  The company ceased most manufacturing operations in 1982, but the buildings remained in the hands of David Tolbert, grandson of the Kilgore family who founded the company.  David Tolbert and Lance Robbins are working together to redevelop B&T and a neighboring site, with nearly $23 million to construct approximately 130 residential units.

“We realize that one of the keys of good development, especially a challenging one like this, is to work with the community. We try to pay special attention to the needs and hopes of the existing stakeholders.  We were lucky to connect early on with the Franklinton Development Association.  Through them we became connected to the Franklinton Area Commission and the entire community,” said Lance Robbins of Brick Investment Corporation.

As part of the plan, Brick Investment Corporation will redevelop the former Ebco Manufacturing Company, located 401 W. Town Street across the street from B&T Metals, into condos and an art studio.  The building currently houses the Eickholt Glass studio.  Redevelopment plans are expected to get underway in four phases beginning in early 2008, starting first with the creative arts components of the project, including the theatre and exhibition space.  Development of 70 for-sale condominium units will follow, with the construction of an additional 56 residential units slated for the third phase of development.  A vacant lot adjacent to the site will be reserved for future development and will be used in the interim as a small park and public exhibition for monumental art by local artists.

“Even though you can see that age and nature have impacted this building that has been in my family for generations, I’m very proud to see that it will be preserved and turned into something great for a new generation of residents in Franklinton,” said David Tolbert.

Brick Investment Corporation also purchased several surrounding blighted and abandoned properties for future residential housing development.

"Condos planned for Franklinton" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Condos planned for Franklinton
Former industrial sites to get new life
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Robert Vitale
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

Columbus is turning to a man once labeled the biggest slumlord in Los Angeles to revive a neighborhood that Mayor Michael B. Coleman said has been plagued by "flight, abandonment and blight."

City officials announced a $23 million plan yesterday to turn two former industrial sites and a vacant lot in Franklinton into condominiums, apartments and artists? studios.

Coleman said the privately funded development will transform the long-troubled area west of Downtown into "the comeback neighborhood" of Columbus...

Franklinton investigative reporting: past and present

Link: Beyond the Fold: March 22
The Riot Act
John Ross
March 22nd, 2007

...The rich, troubled history of Franklinton, the oldest section of Columbus, has filled books, and trying to summarize it is nearly impossible. I was extremely excited about the story - many of the features I write don't require me to delve into a topic as deeply as I did for this one...

Franklinton: "Bottoms up"

Link: Bottoms up
Jophn Ross
Columbus Alive
March 22nd, 2007

...And groups across the city are slowly coming to rescue a neighborhood that has, over the years, largely been neglected.

"There are so many projects right now and so many funding sources that it's hard to differentiate between them," said Stewart, who thinks 2007 will be a banner year for the neighborhood. "We've got a lot of exciting things happening."...

"State approves $5.1M in funding for local housing projects" Business First of Columbus

Link: State approves $5.1M in funding for local housing projects
Business First of Columbus
Friday February 23rd, 2007

...The Columbus Housing Partnership Inc. will receive $250,000 to build and rehabilitate City View Homes, a 35-home housing project in Franklinton. City View Homes LLC is also slated to receive a $1 million loan for a construction deposit and a $1 million loan to assist with other development costs...

"Slow to grow" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Slow to grow

Franklinton’s future hinges on hard work of promoting development

The Columbus Dispatch

Friday, February 02, 2007

Franklinton needs some champions. The long-troubled, low-lying neighborhood that used to be menaced by the Scioto River is protected by a $139 million floodwall, but too little else has changed in the three years since the wall was dedicated.

That is disappointing because some people predicted Franklinton would boom with new development and prosperity after flood-related building restrictions were lifted.

But the lack of activity shouldn’t be surprising.

Franklinton has had more challenges than its topography, more even than the crime and blight that other redeveloped areas, such as German Village and Victorian Village, have wrestled with...

"Red Capital finances $7M for Franklinton complex" Business First of Columbus

Link: Red Capital finances $7M for Franklinton complex
Business First of Columbus
January 26th, 2007

Red Capital Markets Inc. said Friday it is providing $7 million in financing to the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority to build affordable housing for senior citizens.

The Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority will use the tax-exempt bonds to build the 100-unit Worley Terrace Apartments on Central Avenue in Franklinton...

"Hardly a deluge" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Hardly a deluge
Perceptions that it’s a dangerous neighborhood have held back the resurgence of Franklinton despite the $140 million floodwall’s opening in ’04
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Debbie Gebolys
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

...But since the $140 million floodwall opened in March 2004, fewer building permits have been issued each year than before it opened.

The city issued just four permits to build single-family houses in Franklinton between the beginning of 1998 and July 2006, city records show. Although city leaders and nonprofit groups attempt to support improvements along W. Broad Street, others perceive that the neighborhood is not safe...

Coordinated City Effort Results in Downtown Dolls Night Club Closing

press release from the mayor's office
(Columbus)  Mayor Michael B. Coleman and City Attorney Rick Pfeiffer today thanked all of the City Departments that contributed to Downtown Doll’s voluntary closing.

“Closing this establishment is a great example of what happens when the City teams up with community members to make their neighborhood safer,” said Mayor Coleman.  “Downtown Dolls created a dangerous situation and we worked hard to bring everyone together and get results.”

Assistant City Attorney Bridget Carty said, “The quick response by Code Enforcement and the Columbus Police resulted in the City ordering the club to stop operating as they were. This should send a message to other similar establishments that the City will use all its resources to protect the community.”

In the last two months, two shootings, that began as fights inside the establishment, resulted in 3 fatalities occurred outside Downtown Dolls, located at 1336 West Broad Street. Since January of this year, Columbus Police have made 47 calls for service involving gun shots, fights, and other violent activity. Columbus Police have already arrested and jailed a suspect in the October 10 homicide and video evidence is assisting the Columbus Police investigation of the October 14 homicides.

The City of Columbus brought together the City Attorney’s Office, Columbus Police and Code Officers to ensure that Downtown Dolls was in compliance with all city laws.  Their investigation resulted in the Club’s owner voluntarily closing effective October 19th.

“Franklinton residents and businesses operators have expressed to me the feeling of relief that the Downtown Dolls was closed. We are thankful for the quick response to community concerns after the latest shooting event. We love our neighborhood, and this kind of business is not welcomed by most people who live and work in our neighborhood,” said Carol Stewart, Chair of the Franklinton Area Commission.

"New home invigorates owner and neighbors" The Columbus Dispatch

Franklinton is getting some much needed attention in conjunction with the first demolition that took place this week as part of the mayor's Home Again program. The neighborhood is still facing a number of significant challenges but every small step helps:

Link: New home invigorates owner and neighbors
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Jodi Andes
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

...Insurance rates and federal restrictions, which required new buildings to be erected above the flood plain, made it prohibitive to build houses, Sweeney said. But in 2004, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers finished building the Franklinton Floodwall, which removed such restrictions.

Franklinton has seen some construction, including at Mount Carmel West hospital, and some major home renovations, but that was largely it, he said...

...Coleman said he hopes the new homes, and tearing down abandoned and neglected properties, will help draw builders and developers to the area...

Boyce Continues the Franklinton Health, Safety, and Crime Prevention Campaign

The third in a series of meetings with neighborhood residents and area business and institution leaders gets underway as Council member Kevin Boyce chairs an effort in Franklinton to prioritize community challenges and to create collaborations between the City and area stakeholders to affect solutions. Late last year, Columbus City Council sponsored a survey of the Franklinton community to help identify needs and issues. This third meeting will focus on the issues and recommendations of the Environmental Subcommittee. Representatives from the City's Land Bank, Code Enforcement, Community Relations Commission and the Department of Development will be on hand to discuss how the problems that Franklinton has can be addressed. Additionally, the group will work on an expansion plan for the Community Crime Patrol in Franklinton. In January, Councilmember Boyce added an additional $125,000 to the budget to increase CCP patrols and to formulate a plan to have CCP target code enforcement issues.

Area residents are welcome. Because seating is limited, please call Kate McSweeney Pishotti of Council staff at 645-8573 to confirm attendance.

What
Franklinton Health, Safety, and Crime Prevention Campaign
Who
Council member Kevin Boyce
When
Thursday, April 13, 2006 at 5:30 p.m.
Where
Mount Carmel
Board Room 112
793 West State Street
Columbus, Ohio 43222

"Bikers at ballpark could be home run" The Columbus Dispatch

I might have to join Mike on a position reversal on the Harley-Davidson motorcycle complex that is proposed to replace the Cooper Stadium space once the Clippers move into their new home at Huntington Park in the Arena District. Seeing more of the details of what they are planning definitely changes the picture I had in my mind.

I would still have concerns about the noise for the adjacent residential areas to the north but with the highways there it may already be drowned out somewhat.

I'll be curious to see how these plans develop:

Link: Bikers at ballpark could be home run
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
MIKE HARDEN

...Althoff said an expanded motorcycle dealership would add 25 jobs at the stadium site.

"The restaurant we’re building would employ 120," he continued. "The hotel would employ 30. Assume 10 for the museum, and that is low."

The number of jobs coming to a site that currently is taxexempt could reach 200.

"You’re talking about 20,000 people going into that area monthly,"... Stokes said of the potential draw.

B & T Metals Site Clean-up Funding Sought

The B & T Metals site in Franklinton at 435 W. Town Street received support from the City Council tonight as they move to request $300,000 from the state's Clean Ohio Council to clean up the site and make way for a potential high-density condo project:

Council moves to unite with the State of Ohio to keep redevelopment of the former B & T Metals property in Franklinton on track by supporting an application for a State environmental cleanup grant. Brick Investments hopes to invest approximately $15-20 million to develop 134 condominium units with a small arts theatre, restaurant and office space.

"Franklinton business group likes condo plan" The Columbus Dispatch

Despite the strong desire for development exhibited by the Franklinton Board of Trade and their willingness to take a chance on developers that have been presented as having a questionsable history, the whole situation brings up the question of whether or not the risk will end up being worth it in the long run if the project actually goes forward. Court's in session:

Link: Franklinton business group likes condo plan
Council will be asked to OK variances for old industrial site
Saturday, January 14, 2006
Mark Ferenchik
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

..."We are looking forward to a very successful project," said Judy Basham, executive director of the Franklinton Board of Trade.

Franklinton is desperate for development. So the project described Tuesday morning to Board of Trade members by representatives of Brick Investment Corp. was greeted favorably. It would have 134 units on an old industrial site at 435 W. Town St., including the B &T Metals site. It could include offices, a theater and a restaurant...

One could speculate on all the things that could go wrong if the questions raised about the developers history turn out to be answered in the negative, but just as quickly we could speculate on what would happen if things turned out positively. Either way, we can save the speculation for after the zoning variances make their way through the Columbus City Council on the 23rd of this month.

One thing that does stick out to me is the parking variance that they are looking for concerning the reduction of the number of parking spaces for project required by city code from 447 to 143. One of THE top issues that many of the urban rehab projects face is parking.

I anticipate that with potentially unstable markets on the coasts and with national signs of a slowing real estate market for 2006 we may start to see other developers from outside of Columbus begin to start popping in to check us out...the relatively stable and safe market that we have proven to be so far.

"Franklinton development taking its time" Columbus Business First

There has been quite a buzz over the past couple weeks regarding Franklinton which has not had any significant revitalization efforts in the papers for a long time. Their is not much to report in terms of actual development activity quite yet but I'm glad to see that it hasn't been forgotten. My personal opinion has been that we won't see any significant developments in that area for at least 5 years and it appears that I am not alone:

Link: Franklinton development taking its time
Cindy Bent Findlay
For Business First
January 6th, 2006

..."I'm 100 percent sure it's going to happen. The only question is when. My guess is, at the earliest it will take five years, at the longest maybe 10 to 15," says Joel Teaford, executive director of the Neighborhood Design Center, the Columbus urban planning and development nonprofit, which has assisted with planning in the area...

"Leaders to look over Franklinton proposal" The Columbus Dispatch

I never like to make assumptions off of what I read without investigation but, from the sounds of it, the developers that are planning a 134 unit apartment and condo mixed-use development in Franklinton don't have the strongest referrals coming in.

The Franklinton area business leaders are greatly desiring some development activity despite the developers "sketchy track record" and in conjunction with the City Council, are pondering the future of development:

Link: Leaders to look over Franklinton proposal
Condos, theater may outweigh developers’ sketchy track record
Monday, January 09, 2006
Mark Ferenchik
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

...On Tuesday, they’ll review plans for the project before the Columbus City Council decides whether to approve it. The council is expected to table a request for a zoning variance tonight to give the trade group more time to examine the plan...

"Franklinton attracts L.A. developers" The Columbus Dispatch

It's been a while since there has been any news of development in Franklinton. I'd say I was excited to hear about a potential project for the neighborhood but given the proposed developer's background I'd have to say there are some reservations to be had.

We'll have to wait and see where things go:

Link: Franklinton attracts L.A. developers
Friday, December 16, 2005
Mark Ferenchik
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

Two men considered to be among Los Angeles’ worst slumlords are proposing a theater and housing for artists in old factories in the Franklinton neighborhood.

Despite the men’s track records, Franklinton leaders are welcoming the project.

Lance Robbins, the attorney for developer Brick Investment, said he spotted the buildings, including the abandoned B &T Metals at 435 W. Town St., when he came to Columbus for an Ohio State University graduation...

...Los Angeles has repeatedly accused Robbins of running slum buildings, according to a story in the Los Angeles Times on Nov. 24. The city filed 54 criminal and civil charges against him from 1984 to 2000 for 17 buildings with health and safety violations. They are the most against any landlord in the 25-year history of the city’s Slum Housing Task Force...

...In addition to 134 apartments and condominiums, the developers plan to offer 11,050 square feet for shops, 2,805 square feet for offices, 3,150 square feet for a restaurant and 2,475 square feet for the theater...

"Motorcycle complex revs up panel studying stadium site" The Columbus Dispatch

Looks like the Cooper Alternative Plan Steering Committee is leaning towards a top recommendation of a motorcycle sales complex...racetrack and all. My first thought is that, although 70 is buffering part of the area from the immense noise that will be coming from Harley motorcycles (just one mind you...never mind a race track full of them), the neighbors in the area would be none too happy.

Pardon the inappropriate pun, but a motorcycle track will be loud enough to wake the dead...in the neighboring cemetery. I'm not anti-Harley but if some type of sound study isn't done as part of this process there will be some louder noise from the neighborhood somewhere down the road:

Link: Motorcycle complex revs up panel studying stadium site
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Jim Woods
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

A motor sales operation, such as the proposal made by A.D. Farrow Co. Harley-Davidson, might be the best reuse of the Cooper Stadium site, a study has found...

"Car sales at the Coop floated as reuse idea" COlumbus Business First

Usually I eloborate with some keen observation based off of conjecture or personal and professional experience. This time I'll sum up my thoughts in one word: What?!

Link: Car sales at the Coop floated as reuse idea
Jeff Bell
Business First
November 4th, 2005

...One of the leading proposals, though, states the site could be a good one for car and motorcycle sales. A proposal by Robert Althoff, owner of the A.D. Farrow Co. Harley-Davidson dealership in Franklinton, to create a motorcycle sales and rider-training complex at the site has morphed into what the draft report calls an auto mall...

So maybe being tucked in between cemetries isn't the most appealing spot for development but an automall as a top contender?

View the Google map of Cooper Stadium