(Columbus Dispatch) — The Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) has announced its largest summer construction season in the agency’s 92-year history.
The authority on June 1 reported eight projects are planned this summer which will total more than $334 million, and will create more than 6,500 jobs.
“As central Ohio continues to grow, CMHA remains committed to ensuring that people of all income levels have access to quality housing and help support their ability to thrive in the communities they call home,” Charles Hillman, CMHA president and CEO, said in a news release.
The projects are expected to boost the central Ohio economy by nearly $750 million, according to CMHA, which used a forecasting model from the Ohio Chamber of Commerce Research Foundation and SRC EvalMetrics LLC.
“Housing and economic growth go hand in hand,” Hillman said. “The projects we’re launching this summer will create thousands of jobs, generate significant economic activity, and expand housing opportunities across Franklin County.”
The research foundation data, from a 2024 study, found that for every $1 spent by CMHA, the state economy gains a $2.24 return on investment.
CMHA Board of Commissioners Chair James L. Ervin Jr. said in the news release that the investments in new construction and renovation this summer are “not just benefiting CMHA residents but also supporting businesses and workers across the Buckeye State.”
Here are the CMHA summer projects:
Nelson Park – 1,172 jobs created
An existing building from Nelson Park that will be historically preserved yet completely refreshed. Spacier, more modern units will replace those that have existed since the late 50s.
Nelson Park is a 140-unit affordable housing community in the Eastgate neighborhood on Columbus’ Near East Side that is being renovated by CMHA in partnership with Renewal Housing Associations and The Orlean Company. The property, built in 1958, is being modernized.
Westrich – $71.1 million and 1,304 jobs created
A rendering of Westrich, a new affordable housing development going in near River & Rich in Franklinton. Provided By The Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority.
The River & Rich mixed-use development in Franklinton, which includes apartments and restaurants, will soon have a new neighbor.
Westrich, to be built on vacant land adjacent to the complex, is a new 234-unit development that is expected to begin leasing this month. CMHA worked with CASTO, The Robert Weiler Company, The Kelley Companies, and S. Cain Development and Construction to build the community.
The Falls – $46.6 million and 1,061 jobs created
A rendering of The Falls, the first development solely funded by the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority, will include 220 units of housing for middle- and low-income residents on the Refugee Road on Columbus’ East Side. Provided By Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority.
On the city’s Southeast Side, on Refugee Road, will be a newly constructed 220-unit, mixed-income apartment community.
It’s the first community built and solely funded by CMHA.
Walnut Grove – $41.8 million and 888 jobs created
Walnut Grove Apartments in the Blacklick area of Columbus are being renovated through a partnership between the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) and the Preservation of Affordable Housing, a nonprofit developer. Provided By CMHA.
CMHA is partnering with the Preservation of Affordable Housing to do a major renovation on the Walnut Grove apartment homes in the Blacklick area.
Walnut Grove is a 176-unit community at 751 Chester Grove Drive with both townhomes and single-family homes.
Heights on Main – $30 million and 567 jobs created
A rendering of what the Heights on Main in Reynoldsburg is expected to look like. The 103-unit apartment complex will sit near city hall in the Columbus suburb and is a partnership between the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) and the city. Provided By CMHA.
CMHA is breaking ground on this apartment building in Reynoldsburg later this summer, as part of a partnership with the City of Reynoldsburg.
It will be near City Hall and have 103-units.
Aspire Columbus – $29 million and 546 jobs created
The site of the former United Way headquarters in downtown Columbus is under construction, with a five-story, 82-unit development planned. It will serve middle- and low-income families and people with disabilities.
All In Dublin – $24 million and 464 jobs created
This rendering shows a proposed 75-unit housing development in Dublin that would provide inclusive housing for people with and without disabilities. Provided By MA Design.
On a 1.6-acre vacant lot at the corner of Dublin Center Drive and West Dublin Granville Road in Dublin will soon be a 75-unit affordable housing development. All In Dublin is a partnership between CMHA, All Inclusive Living, The Finch Group and TFG Housing Resources.
The four-story building will be inclusive of people with disabilities and older adults and is transit-accessible.
Demorest Townhomes – $14.3 million and 530 jobs created
Inside Demorest Townhomes in Grove City, which the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) plans to purchase and expand. Provided By The Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority.
This community in Grove City is growing, with construction expected to begin in June to expand it from 48 units to 150.
Underserved Communities Reporter Danae King can be reached at dking@dispatch.com or on X at @DanaeKing.
