The Columbus City Council has approved the annexation of 3.5 acres from Madison Township into the City of Columbus. The annexation petition, filed by property owner Michael P. Barr, was approved by the Franklin County Board of Commissioners on October 15, 2024, and received by the Columbus City Clerk on January 2, 2025. The site is located along Bixby Road and will be served by Columbus municipal utilities, including a 30” water main, with all connection costs borne by the owner. The annexation aligns with the city's growth objectives and facilitates the upcoming zoning process, which is expected to enable a 500-unit affordable multi-family housing project. All required sanitary and storm sewers must be privately constructed at the developer’s expense. The approval was declared an emergency to ensure the timely progression of the proposed housing development.
This annexation paves the way for a significant affordable housing project, addressing the urgent need for more residential units in Columbus. It also extends city services to the newly incorporated area, supporting future development.