Public Notice: Downtown Infrastructure Updates and New City Legislation

City Infrastructure and Traffic Advisories

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) continues to report significant activity for the I-70/I-71 Downtown Ramp Up project. As of Friday, February 27, 2026, motorists should expect ongoing lane shifts and restricted access as part of the multi-phase reconstruction of the downtown corridor. Two lanes of traffic are being maintained in each direction on I-70 westbound, where vehicles have been shifted to the eastbound side of the roadway. This configuration is expected to remain in place through the fall of 2026 to facilitate pavement reconstruction and bridge work.

In addition to major highway work, local commuters should be aware of the following ongoing projects within the city:

• Trabue Road: Travel remains reduced from four lanes to two lanes for bridge rehabilitation and roadway improvements over the Scioto River. This restriction is part of a long-term project scheduled to continue through late 2026.
• Cleveland Avenue: Road widening and pedestrian safety improvements are active between Huy Road and Cooke Road. Drivers are advised to anticipate periodic lane closures and increased congestion during peak morning and afternoon hours.
• Polaris Area: Early-stage mobilization for water line improvements is scheduled to begin, with contractors preparing for upcoming excavations along the corridor.

Legislative Updates from City Council

Following official actions taken earlier this week, the Columbus City Council has enacted new ordinances regarding city cooperation with federal immigration agencies. The legislation, which moved through the Rules and Policy Committee before receiving full Council approval, prohibits the establishment of federal immigration detention centers within city limits. Furthermore, the new code changes restrict city employees from engaging in secondary employment with federal immigration enforcement and limit the use of city property for such actions. Council members stated these measures are intended to ensure all residents feel safe accessing public resources, including schools and emergency services.

Public Service Announcements and Wildlife Notices

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), headquartered in Columbus, has issued its proposed schedule for the 2026-2027 hunting and trapping seasons. While the official public comment period is set to open on March 2, the department is currently distributing information regarding proposed changes to deer management permits and the status of threatened species, such as the American barn owl. Residents are encouraged to review these proposals at the ODNR website ahead of the statewide hearing scheduled for April.

Public Health and Community Wellness

Columbus Public Health (CPH) reminds the community that walk-in immunization clinics at 240 Parsons Avenue continue to offer updated vaccines for respiratory illnesses. Special programs for uninsured residents are available during regular business hours. Additionally, CPH remains in an active monitoring phase for infectious diseases, including hepatitis A and shigellosis, following trends identified in recent health reports. The Board of Health is currently reviewing new grant applications to expand foundational public health infrastructure through the end of the 2026 fiscal year.