After more than four years in the works, the Scioto Mile riverfront redevelopment project is coming to a close. The grand opening celebration for the new park will be held next weekend, with the main event taking place on Thursday, July 7th, which includes an opening fountain show at 6pm, children’s activities, a live performance by the Hoo Doo Soul Band at 7:30pm and an evening fountain show at 9:45pm.
“This project plays an essential role in the revitalization of downtown, attracting and complementing residential development, boosting property values and stimulating commercial growth,” said CDDC President and CEO Guy Worley. “In conjunction with Columbus Commons, Scioto Mile makes Downtown Columbus a true regional destination and we’re proud to have partnered with the public and private sectors to develop this project.”
This $44 million development includes multiple components:
- The two-way conversion of Civic Center Drive, new on-street parking, new sidewalks, planters and street trees.
- The restoration of the historic limestone balustrade and the 30-foot-wide riverwalk Promenade, which includes water features, seating, porch swings and free WiFi.
- The transformation of Bicentennial Park, which includes a new state-of-the-art 15,000-square-foot fountain system, the new Milestone 229 restaurant, and music concert bandshell.
The project is a 50/50 public-private partnership between the Columbus Downtown Development Corporation, the City of Columbus, American Electric Power, and other entities.
The Milestone 229 restaurant will also celebrate its grand opening on July 7th, starting at 7:30pm.
More information can be found online at www.sciotomile.com.
Construction photos of The Scioto Mile from the past three years can be found below:
