Council Invests in Columbus Neighborhoods with 2014 Capital Improvements Budget
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
April 1, 2014
For More Information:
John Ivanic, City Council, 645-6798
Columbus City Council has passed a capital improvements budget that includes $735.7 million for new infrastructure and facility projects, with unprecedented investments of $33 million for street resurfacing and $42.6 million in Columbus Recreation and Parks infrastructure, including pools, parks, playgrounds, and bikeways.
Other funded priorities include $8 million in improvements to central city neighborhoods through the Urban Infrastructure Improvement Fund; $6 million in fire apparatus and $5 million to replace the fire station at 150 East Fulton Ave; $4.2 million for street lighting; and $2.5 million to support the Vacant and Abandoned Properties (VAP) program, which rehabilitates properties that can be saved and demolishes those that are beyond repair.
The budget that Council approved at its March 31st meeting also includes more than $7.3 million in amendments sponsored by councilmembers to fund important community priorities like snow removal, neighborhood safety cameras, and sidewalk and streetscape improvements.
“Columbus City Council continues to invest in neighborhoods and support our residents with the passage of the 2014 capital improvements budget,” said Councilmember Priscilla Tyson, chair of the Finance Committee.
Councilmember Tyson, Development Committee Chair Michelle Mills, and Public Safety Committee Chair Zach Klein sponsored amendments to fund home renovation programs in Driving Park, Linden, and the West Side. Funds from the programs will help eligible residents make improvements to their properties, complementing the efforts of the mayor’s VAP program.
Council President Pro Tem A. Troy Miller supported the mayor's substantial investment in street and snow removal equipment and resurfacing with an additional $1 million amendment. Councilmember Hearcel Craig, chair of the Recreation and Parks and Veterans Affairs Committees, sponsored an amendment to study the feasibility of replacing Fairwood Pool.
“We want to develop a new pool to replace the outdated Fairwood Pool, and a feasibility study will determine the appropriate location and amenities needed to best serve the community,” said Councilmember Craig, who also offered an amendment for the Municipal Care for Veterans Home Fund, which helps veterans repair and remain in their homes.
The amended capital improvements budget is available through Council’s Legislative Center.
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