From Diners to Data Centers: Columbus Shines on National Stage

Hey, it's Gagan. I'm still the only Gagan Timsina in the world (as far as I know).

And here's what people HATE about living in Columbus Ohio

In today's newsletter:

• Former Downtown YMCA Being Converted to Affordable Housing: 121 units planned for historic building

• Development Controversy in Harrison West: Residents oppose developer's revised apartment plan

• Coca-Cola Consolidated Opens $90 Million Columbus Facility: New distribution center creates jobs and economic impact

• Columbus Diner and Motel Named Among Best in Nation: Tommy's Diner and South Wind Motel receive USA Today recognition

SPONSORED BY: GT REAL ESTATE GROUP

DATA CENTER PROJECT WITH BILLION-DOLLAR PRICE TAG HEADED TO FAIRFIELD COUNTY

Fairfield County commissioners have approved the annexation of 500 acres to the village of Millersport for what's expected to be a massive data center development. [Dispatch]

Key Highlights:

• Project is believed to be a Vonage data center

• Expected to be one of the four or five largest projects in Ohio

• Cost estimated "in the billions" according to Commissioner Steve Davis

• May include on-site power generation ("behind-the-meter power")

What Makes It Significant:

• 500 acres annexed to the village of Millersport

• Project timeline could span several years

• No apparent connection to proposed solar farms in Walnut Township area

• Millersport officials must still formally accept the annexation

This significant investment in Fairfield County represents a major economic development opportunity for the region. While located outside Columbus proper, large-scale projects of this nature often create ripple effects throughout the surrounding areas, potentially increasing property values and stimulating related development. For investors, areas near major data centers often see increased demand for both residential and commercial real estate to serve the facility's workforce.

COLUMBUS DINER AND MOTEL NAMED AMONG BEST IN NATION BY USA TODAY

Two Columbus establishments have earned prestigious spots on USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards for 2025. [614NOW]

Key Highlights:

• Tommy's Diner ranked 6th in the Best Roadside Diner category

• South Wind Motel also took 6th place in the Best Roadside Motel category

• Recognition comes from USA Today's annual reader-voted contest

• Other Columbus businesses currently in voting rounds include Lion Cub's Cookies and ZipZone Outdoor Adventures

What Sets Them Apart:

• Tommy's Diner has long been a Columbus institution known for classic American fare

• South Wind Motel combines retro aesthetics with modern amenities

• Both represent local businesses gaining national attention

• Readers can still vote for other Columbus nominees in ongoing categories

This national recognition for multiple Columbus establishments reinforces the city's growing reputation as a destination with unique, high-quality businesses. For property owners, having nationally recognized establishments nearby can enhance neighborhood appeal and potentially boost property values. These accolades also contribute to Columbus's visibility on the national stage, which can attract visitors and potential new residents to the area.

FORMER DOWNTOWN YMCA BUILDING TO BE CONVERTED TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Plans to transform the historic downtown YMCA building into affordable housing will go before the Downtown Commission for review on May 20. [Columbus Business First]

Key Highlights:

• Woda Cooper will redevelop the vacant building at 40 W. Long St.

• Project will create 121 affordable apartments across eight floors

• Units will range from studios to three-bedrooms

• Rents targeted at 30-80% of area median income

What Makes It Notable:

• Building has been vacant since 2019 when deemed too costly to maintain

• Constructed in 1931 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places

• Columbus Downtown Development Corp. purchased the site in 2023 for $1 million

• Property transferred to Woda Cooper for development in February 2025 for $10,000

The adaptive reuse of this historic downtown property aligns with the 2022 Downtown Columbus Strategic Plan's housing goals. This development represents a significant opportunity to increase affordable housing options in the downtown area while preserving an important architectural landmark. For property owners and investors in downtown Columbus, these types of revitalization projects can help maintain neighborhood stability and potentially increase surrounding property values by eliminating vacant structures.

HARRISON WEST RESIDENTS CONCERNED BY DEVELOPER'S REVISED PLANS

Members of a Harrison West homeowners association are opposing a developer's proposal to replace planned townhomes with a 60-unit apartment building in the Founders Park development. [WCMH]

Key Highlights:

• Thrive Companies has completed 95% of the 21-acre Founders Park development

• Original plan called for townhouses and a 20-unit condo building

• New proposal requests zoning change for a 60-unit apartment building

• Requesting reduced parking requirements from 90 spaces to just 15

Community Concerns:

• Residents feel the change undermines trust in the original development plan

• Columbus Division of Fire opposes parking changes, citing emergency vehicle access

• Neighborhood already struggles with limited street parking

• HOA says change prioritizes developer's bottom line over existing commitments

The situation in Harrison West highlights the delicate balance between development flexibility and community expectations. For homeowners in planned communities, changes to adjacent development can potentially impact property values and neighborhood character. This case demonstrates the importance of understanding how development agreements and zoning changes might affect residential investments over time. The city's decision on this zoning request will be closely watched by neighborhood advocates throughout Columbus.

COCA-COLA CONSOLIDATED INVESTS $90 MILLION IN COLUMBUS FACILITY

Coca-Cola Consolidated has opened a new state-of-the-art distribution and warehouse facility at Rickenbacker Industrial Center. [Coca-Cola]

Key Highlights:

• $90 million investment in a 400,000-square-foot distribution center

• Additional 30,000 square feet for equipment repair and fleet maintenance

• Facility will handle more than 16 million cases of product annually

• Created 25 new jobs, boosting total employment to 350

Facility Features:

• Semi-automated Vertique system for improved warehouse efficiency

• On-site Wellness Clinic for employees

• Experiential learning center and auditorium for training

• Sustainability initiatives including LED lighting, EV charging infrastructure, and recycling

This significant corporate investment strengthens Columbus's position as a logistics hub and represents confidence in the region's economic future. The Rickenbacker area continues to attract major distribution facilities, reinforcing its strategic importance. For property investors, areas surrounding logistics centers often see increased demand for housing, services, and complementary businesses to support the workforce. This development further cements Columbus's reputation as a prime location for companies with significant distribution needs.

THIS WEEK'S WRAP-UP

Home owners: The Harrison West development controversy demonstrates the importance of staying engaged with neighborhood planning and zoning issues. Meanwhile, major investments like the Fairfield County data center and Coca-Cola facility could enhance property values in surrounding areas.

Home buyers: The downtown YMCA conversion offers new affordable housing options in a central location. Those considering established neighborhoods like Harrison West should research development agreements and potential changes that could affect community character.

Bottom line: This week showcases Columbus's diverse economic growth, from tech infrastructure and logistics to urban housing solutions. These investments signal continued confidence in the region's economic future, while also highlighting the importance of balancing development needs with community expectations.

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See you next week,

— Gagan Timsina