City Notices: Neighborhood Infrastructure Updates and Public Safety Alerts

Public Service Announcement: Recreation and Parks Infrastructure

The Columbus Recreation and Parks Department is advising residents of several active park closures and ongoing construction projects throughout the city. These updates are part of the 2026 Capital Improvement Plan aimed at enhancing community facilities:

• Nelson Park & Westgate Park: Significant portions of both parks are currently closed for renovations and are expected to remain under construction through April 13, 2026.
• Easthaven Park: The playground remains closed for reconstruction following the 2025 fire damage, with a scheduled reopening in March 2026.
• Griggs Reservoir Park: Construction continues on the new adaptive kayak launch. While the immediate construction zone is restricted, the rest of the park remains open to the public.
• Kilbourne Run Sports Park: The facility remains closed to the public as it undergoes final preparations for its grand opening later this spring.

Public Health Advisory: Statewide Measles Alert

The Ohio Department of Health has issued an advisory following a confirmed measles outbreak in the state earlier this month. While cases have been concentrated in Northern Ohio, Columbus Public Health encourages all residents to verify their vaccination status. Symptoms of measles include high fever, cough, and a characteristic rash. Health officials emphasize that the MMR vaccine remains the most effective protection against the virus.

Public Safety Notice: Campus Area Awareness

On January 23, 2026, the Ohio State University Department of Public Safety issued a timely warning regarding an attempted robbery reported near the Ohio Union. Residents and students in the University District are encouraged to remain vigilant, walk in groups when possible, and report any suspicious behavior to the Columbus Division of Police or University Police. Additionally, the department highlighted the new joint police substation on 11th Avenue, which officially integrated drone-assisted first-response capabilities this week.

Official Meeting Notices and Deadlines

Stay informed about local governance and upcoming community opportunities:

• Summer Youth Program Grants: The City of Columbus is currently accepting applications for its 2026 Summer Youth Program Grants. Organizations providing youth programming must submit their applications by 5:00 p.m. on February 13, 2026.
• Records Commission Meeting: The Columbus City Schools Records Commission will hold its annual meeting on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. to review record retention schedules. The meeting will be held at 3700 S. High Street and is open to the public.