An empty Franklinton warehouse located at 421-435 West State Street may receive some grant funding for cleanup work and redevelopment. Mayor Michael Coleman submitted legislation today to Columbus City Council to apply for a $200,000 brownfield cleanup grant from the Green Columbus Fund. The money will allow the Franklinton Development Associate to correct environmental issues that affect the building and allow for eventual development into a live-work space.
“Franklinton is on the rebound, and the Green Columbus Fund will help us create jobs in this historic neighborhood while protecting our environment,” said Coleman. “The businesses taking advantage of this program are helping us build a stronger economy and a greener city.”
This new project coincides with the recently completed East Franklinton Plan, which outlines an entire 200 acre neighborhood of dense development centered around the creative class.
“This building is one of the keys to redeveloping East Franklinton,” said Jim Sweeney, executive director of the Franklinton Development Association. “Located just behind COSI and the Spaghetti Warehouse, it has the potential to jump start the whole area by drawing new people and businesses over to the neighborhood.”
The Green Columbus Fund is a reimbursement grant program that uses financial incentives to boost sustainable redevelopment efforts throughout the city. Both private sector businesses and nonprofits can apply for these grants.
More information about the Green Columbus Fund can be found HERE (Word Doc).
More information about ongoing development throughout Franklinton can be found HERE.