The Franklin County Commissioners have been tasked with the tough job of deciding over the past four months whether or not to renovate or replace the Veterans Memorial facility located on the Scioto Peninsula.
In August, the Columbus Downtown Development Corporation (CDDC) made a proposal to replace the facility with a new Ohio Veterans Memorial & Museum which would be funded in part by a $25 million dollar donation from Les and Abigail Wexner. The new project would one one piece of a larger redevelopment plan announced for the entire 56 acre area that includes a new Columbus Zoo facility and future mixed-use office and residential development.
An alternate plan was proposed by local veterans groups and other supporters of the 58-year-old facility to renovate and modernize the building in order to make it more attractive again for conventions and regional events.
“When we received the CDDC’s plan, and since, I’ve asked a great many questions. I wanted to be certain that we were doing the right thing for our veterans, residents and our community and I wanted to hear from all sides,” said Franklin County Commissioner Marilyn Brown. “I’ve done those things and I am now satisfied that the plan brought forward by CDDC is the best way to move forward.”
In anticipation of the eventual demolition, the Franklin County Veterans Service Commission (FCVSC) will relocate in July 2014 to the County’s first veterans memorial at Memorial Hall at 280 East Broad Street. Events planned at Vets would continue as scheduled for now with Experience Columbus helping to assist in relocation efforts for ongoing events.
The Franklin County Board of Commissioners intends to approve a resolution on Tuesday, December 3 to authorize moving forward with the strategic plans set forth by the CDDC.
“Today represents a win-win for our community,” added Commissioner Paula Brooks. “By entering into a new relationship on the Scioto Peninsula, we join generous private sector leaders, the city, and heroes like Senator John Glenn and all Franklin County veterans in educating children about our nation’s armed services.”
More information can be found at www.downtowncolumbus.com/scioto-peninsula.
For additional discussion on the redevelopment Scioto Peninsula, CLICK HERE to visit our messageboard.
Renderings provided by CDDC.