Columbus Advances Updated Zoning Proposal for S.R. 161 Corridor
Published on May 30, 2025
Mayor Andrew J. Ginther has submitted legislation to Columbus City Council to update the zoning code for 160 parcels along the S.R. 161/E. Dublin-Granville Road corridor in the Northland neighborhood. The proposal (Ordinance 1417-2025) incorporates community feedback gathered during a 60-day public comment period that concluded on May 10, and represents the city’s commitment to expanding housing supply, fostering walkable, transit-friendly neighborhoods and promoting sustainable, inclusive growth through the ongoing work of the Zone In initiative.
“We are grateful to our neighbors and business owners who shared their perspectives as we continue to modernize the zoning code to build more housing, make it easier to access reliable transit options and support our local small business community,” said Mayor Andrew J. Ginther. “This proposal reflects their feedback and insights, and our shared commitment to making Columbus a city where opportunity and prosperity are within reach of every resident.”
The initial Zone In reforms, approved by City Council in July 2024, established new mixed-use zoning districts – known as Title 34 – along corridors identified as having the greatest potential to support new housing, small business growth and access to public transit. The first application of the updated code rezoned more than 12,300 parcels citywide and unlocked the potential for the market to create up to 88,000 new housing units.
“This zoning update is about ensuring that Northland shares in Columbus’ future — bringing thoughtful development, more housing and new opportunities to a community that has long advocated for smart, inclusive growth,” said Council President Shannon Hardin.
If adopted by City Council, these latest updates to the zoning code would apply the Title 34 mixed-use districts to additional parcels along the S.R. 161 corridor between Worthington city limits and Ponderosa Drive, incorporating feedback the city received from more than 300 online survey responses as well as numerous public meetings and neighborhood pop-up events. This includes reassigning a limited number of parcels from the current legislation to future Zone In efforts based on site-specific factors and existing underlying zoning conditions.
“Applying Title 34 to additional parcels along 161 will support walkable, mixed-use development and establish consistent design guidelines that are essential for the area’s successful redevelopment,” said Pat Hammel, vice president of the Northland Community Council. “This is especially important as roadway improvements and COTA bus service enhancements move forward in the coming years.”
In addition to the proposed zoning code updates for the S.R. 161 corridor, City Council will also consider a number of citywide refinements to the zoning code. These updates are designed to improve clarity, address community and staff feedback, and ensure consistent application of the code across Columbus. Proposed changes include:
- Ordinance 1418-2025: Allow for an opt-in mechanism for properties contiguous to the Title-34 mixed-use corridors,
- Ordinance 1419-2025: Refining Title 34 land use definitions and district standards, updating design requirements for fencing and building elements, and making technical corrections to development and site standards.
Together, these refinements support the city’s ongoing efforts to strengthen implementation of the updated zoning code and further promote equitable growth.
“With over 3 million residents expected in our region by 2050, we must plan boldly and lead with purpose,” said Council President Pro Tem Rob Dorans. “Zone In is about building a Columbus that welcomes new neighbors while protecting the people and places that make our city special. This is how we create a more walkable, affordable, and equitable future—together.”
City Council will consider the first reading of the proposed legislation at its meeting on June 2 at 5 p.m. in Council Chambers. A second reading and a Council vote are expected on June 9.