Woolpert to re-energize Columbus Historic District

Columbus, Ohio — Woolpert was chosen to provide design and conceptual engineering services for a street rehabilitation project that will transform a major connector into an attractive, pedestrian-friendly asset serving a residential neighborhood.

The city of Columbus, Ohio selected Woolpert for the Parsons Avenue Street Rehabilitation project, located in the Olde Towne Historic District. The project, which includes 725 feet between Broad Street and Franklin Avenue, is an extension of the Ohio Department of Transportation’s (ODOT) ramp reconfiguration near the intersection of interstates 70 and 71.

Woolpert’s design will provide an upgrade of the configuration and appearance of Parsons Avenue while also improving access from the neighborhood to downtown Columbus.

“We are pleased to have the opportunity to work with the city of Columbus and the neighborhood on this important street rehabilitation project,” said Nathan Fischer, Woolpert project manager. “We look forward to leveraging our experience in street design to create the catalyst that will bring new energy and vitality to an area that’s ready for renewal.”

The $3.7 million project will include new streetscape features such as wider sidewalks, new street trees and street lighting. In addition, new water and sewer lines, pavement, curbs, traffic signals and underground utilities will replace the existing. The upgrades along Parsons will enhance the overall character of the Olde Town Historic District and the experience of both the pedestrian and driver.

Public art will be a unique feature of the redevelopment project. The city will incorporate artwork into the streetscape and has solicited applications from visual artists for the project. A specially appointed panel will select an artist to work with the design team and the neighborhood to create original artwork that will add visual interest and a focal point to the area. 

The project design will be completed in the summer of 2015, and construction is slated to begin in the fall.

Woolpert is currently working on another city of Columbus project to provide pedestrian access along west Mound Street. This project, which extends from Binns Boulevard to Wayne Avenue, will provide sidewalks on both sides of the road with Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant ramps at all intersections. The improvements, estimated at $3.2 million, are scheduled to begin in the spring of 2017.