BID Meeting Highlights - A New Chapter of Development
The recent Business Improvement District (BID) meeting was a hive of activity, brimming with updates and decisions that promise to shape the future of the Trackside District - Downtown Columbus. Members present at the meeting were Joe Marksmeier, Kevin Johnson, Melissa Spearman, Josh Johnson, Cory Reeder, Dick Tooley, Lindsay Thomson and Kiara Ziemba. Barb Duffy was absent.
Here’s a comprehensive roundup of the key discussions and decisions made during the meeting.
Marketing
The spotlight was on the new logo design colors presented by Vector Crush. Each Board member shared their preferences, ultimately selecting a combination of deep indigo for the main color, a vibrant yellow for the secondary color, and a shade of yellow-green as an alternate. These choices, along with approved font recommendations, will soon be reflected on the district’s website. The motion to approve Color Guide 1.2 was carried unanimously (8-0), marking a new visual identity for our district.
The conversation then shifted to banners. The Board is exploring designs and seeking local vendors for production. There was also a discussion about hanging veteran banners downtown, with further details to be discussed in the next meeting.
Business/Economic Development
Updates on delinquent assessment accounts were provided, with property owners given until July 31 to settle their accounts. Reeder shared his research on billboard signage, detailing costs and potential locations. The Board has given him the green light to further explore a 60-90 day billboard program.Project Management
Vanessa Oceguera from Keep Columbus Beautiful announced new trash receptacles would be delivered in 2-3 weeks. Coordination with the City’s Public Works Department is underway to replace the old cans. This project is a joint effort between Keep Columbus Beautiful and the BID.Physical Grounds
Lighting improvements at Frankfort Square are in the pipeline, with a demo date to be confirmed soon. Josh Johnson presented three options for planters in the district, with the Board leaning towards purchasing planters for corner bump outs and seeking local businesses or organizations to maintain them.
The idea of adding benches downtown was also discussed. Johnson proposed placing benches in the center of blocks, away from business entrances, and sourcing them locally. The possibility of memorial benches similar to those in Frankfort Square was also suggested.
Acknowledgements
Other Updates
Downtown Revitalization Grant Review
Two DTR applications were approved:
- Scott Mueller, Evans House: A $30,000 grant for façade improvements at 2204 14th St.
- Jordan Mueller, JSQUARE, LLC: An $8,550 grant for tuck pointing at 1365 24 Ave.
Both projects aim to preserve the historical integrity and visual impact of the downtown district. The grants are now forward to the City Council for approval. The Council will be taking action on the recommendation at their July 15 meeting.
The next BID meeting is scheduled for August 12 at 1 pm in the Community Room on the third floor of the Columbus Community Building.
Stay tuned for more updates and continue to support the Trackside District - Downtown Columbus as we work towards a brighter, more beautiful downtown.
