Last year, downtown saw a number of big changes to the landscape, particularly the openings of Columbus Commons and the new Scioto Mile. Downtown development continues at a strong pace, and we will keep your apprised of what is happening in that arena.
Columbus Commons Bicentennial Pavilion
Work continues on the Columbus Commons Bicentennial Pavilion in the new Columbus Commons. The stage has been completed, and work will begin soon on the steel framing for the white tensile canopy structure. The canopy is scheduled for installation in March, and the pavilion will open in May of this year.
If you are interested in seeing pictures of the work in progress, you can visit the Columbus Commons Facebook page.
New Building for Nationwide
Just outside of the SID, work has begun on a new five-story building for Nationwide employees. In September, Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co. announced plans to build a 200,000-square-foot office building on West Nationwide Boulevard at Front Street.
This project will house employees moving downtown from Nationwide offices in Dublin and Grove City.
Renovation at 120 West Gay Street
Work continues on the renovation of the old police headquarters at 120 West Gay Street. Work began on the renovation of the six-story building last July, and it is tentatively scheduled to open in June 2013. The project also includes an underground passageway linking City Hall to the new building.
Once completed, the building will house the public safety director’s office, the city attorney’s office , and the offices of the departments of income tax, civil service, human resources and purchasing. The building, designed by Harris and Associates, will be environmentally sustainable and expected to achieve a silver-level LEED (Leadership Energy and Environmental Design) certification.
Environmental features include skylights and a glass curtain wall for natural light; energy-efficient light; geothermal technology using groundwater to cool the building; use of recycled asphalt; and reflective coating on portion of the roof.