Official Public Notice: 2026 Budget Passage and Arnold Festival Traffic Advisories

City of Columbus Public Service Announcement

The City of Columbus and various municipal departments have issued several critical updates for residents and visitors active on Saturday, March 7, 2026. These notices cover significant legislative actions, traffic impacts due to the annual Arnold Sports Festival, and ongoing infrastructure improvements at the Ohio Expo Center.

Arnold Sports Festival Traffic and Road Closures

The Columbus Department of Public Service has announced significant road closures in the Downtown and Short North areas to accommodate the 2026 Arnold Sports Festival. These restrictions are essential for public safety during the multi-day event. From Friday, March 6, through Sunday, March 8, the following restrictions are in effect:

• Vine Street and Spruce Street are closed between North High Street and Park Street.
• Access to the Vine Street parking garage will be maintained via Park Street, which has been temporarily reopened to two-way traffic.
• Motorists are advised to expect increased pedestrian traffic around the Greater Columbus Convention Center and the Short North district.
• Additional rolling closures are anticipated for Sunday morning to accommodate the Arnold 5K races starting at North High and Spruce.

Legislative Update: 2026 Operating Budget Passed

Columbus City Council officially voted to pass the 2026 operating budget earlier this week. The $1.26 billion package includes strategic investments in housing, health, and city services. Key provisions and amendments in the final budget include:

• $7.2 million allocated to the Community Shelter Board for regional housing stability and shelter services.
• $3 million set aside for the city’s 27th payroll period, an 11-year fiscal adjustment.
• $1.8 million for PrimaryOne Health to maintain community health center services.
• $2 million in continued funding for the Columbus Promise tuition program.

Furthermore, Council has referred the "Community Crisis Response Amendment" to the May 5, 2026, primary election ballot. This proposed charter amendment seeks to integrate trained social workers and behavioral health professionals into the city's 911 response system.

Infrastructure and Health Notifications

Ongoing projects and seasonal advisories remain in effect for the Columbus metropolitan area:

• Expo 2050 Construction: 17th Avenue remains closed between Clara Avenue and Dora Avenue for the Expo 2050 Master Plan. This construction is expected to continue through April 30, 2026.
• National Nutrition Month: Columbus Public Health and the Ohio Department of Health remind residents that March is National Nutrition Month. Local health centers are providing increased resources for family wellness and screenings throughout the month.