Regional News - August 16, 2026
Dublin
• Construction has begun on the Ellis Condos, an 89-unit condominium building at Bridge Park. The project is described as the final phase of the original Bridge Park development plan.
• Ohio University’s Board of Trustees met Aug. 13 at the Dublin Integrated Education Center to discuss strategic initiatives, partnerships, and capital projects.
• Dublin residents had access to city chipper service for storm debris after severe weather moved through the area. The service accepts branches up to 12 inches in diameter and longer than 5 feet, with a limit of one truckload per household.
• EASE Logistics announced that one of its executives was recognized for work advancing supply-chain workforce development and training initiatives.
• Ox-B’s announced plans for a new restaurant in the Dublin area.
Gahanna
• The Gahanna Planning Commission approved demolition of the 1969 McDonald’s at 359 Agler Road and construction of a new 1,978-square-foot restaurant. Plans call for one drive-thru lane with two ordering stations, a self-service window and 12 parking spaces, with construction expected to take about four months.
Grove City
• Two vehicles were struck by gunfire Aug. 10 on southbound I-71 near the I-270 interchange and Stringtown Road. No injuries were reported. The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office is investigating and searching for a suspect in a dark-colored SUV.
• Grove City announced a Mayor’s Pickleball Open.
• Grove City held its Back to School Bash on Aug. 15 at Town Center Park, with free activities, giveaways and family resources.
Groveport
• Groveport shared summer energy-saving recommendations, including closing blinds to reduce heat gain, using ceiling fans only while rooms are occupied and avoiding ovens and clothes dryers during the hottest parts of the day.
Harlem Township
• Harlem Township Day Festival was held Aug. 15 at Harlem Township Community Park. The event also included the unveiling of the township’s Parks Strategic Plan.
Hilliard
• Hilliard and SWACO launched the “Recycle Right, Make a Difference” campaign to improve household recycling rates and reduce contamination.
• Hilliard residents had access to on-demand chipper service for storm debris after severe weather. The service accepts branches longer than 4 feet or wider than 4 inches, while smaller debris may be placed with regular yard waste.
• Residents in Hilliard worked together to clear downed trees from roadways after storms moved through the area Aug. 11.
Lockbourne
• Storms on Aug. 11 damaged property and downed trees along Lockbourne Road. The National Weather Service later confirmed an EF1 tornado with estimated 100 mph winds caused damage along a path in south Columbus and the Lockbourne Road area.
• Lockbourne scheduled a special council meeting for Aug. 17 to discuss a SWACO trash collection agreement and an OPWC grant.
Minerva Park
• Minerva Park canceled its Aug. 11 Charter Commission meeting because of weather.
• Minerva Park scheduled a town hall with State Rep. Munira Abdullahi for Aug. 19. Mayor’s Court and Planning and Zoning Commission meetings were also listed for the week.
Obetz
• Obetz City Council approved new e-bike safety rules that took effect immediately. The rules require helmets for riders under 18, prohibit minors from carrying passengers and allow parents to be ticketed for violations.
• The Zucchinifest Car Show was scheduled Aug. 15 at Fortress Obetz, featuring classic and custom vehicles, live music and food vendors.
Reynoldsburg
• State Fire Marshal K-9 Finn retired after nearly a decade of service. A ceremony was held Aug. 11 at the Division of State Fire Marshal campus.
• Tomato Wars took place Aug. 13 during the Reynoldsburg Tomato Festival at Huber Park. “Team Student Council Ladies” won the tomato-throwing contest.
• CERTIFIED opened its fifth Ohio dispensary Aug. 14 at 7365 E. Livingston Ave. A ribbon-cutting was scheduled for Aug. 19.
Sunbury
• Sunbury City Council approved a downtown Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area allowing alcoholic beverages from noon to 9 p.m. daily within the district. Implementation still requires state approval.
• Dublin-based Fusion Hotels took over management of a Hampton Inn in Sunbury after a $6.25 million acquisition.
West Jefferson
• West Jefferson scheduled the final public pool day of the 2026 season for Aug. 16.
• West Jefferson Village Council was scheduled to meet Aug. 17.
• West Jefferson’s America 250 Ice Cream Social was scheduled as part of the Friday Night Uptown series and described as the final event in the 2026 series.
Worthington
• A major mixed-use redevelopment has been proposed on 17.6 acres in Worthington. The plan includes 250 apartments, 182 condominiums, 150 senior-living units, eight townhomes, 290 hotel rooms, and retail and office space. A public hearing is scheduled for Sept. 10.
• Friends Foundation of Worthington Libraries held a book sale Aug. 15 at Old Worthington Library.
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