How Columbus is helping fund development projects for local businesses

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- A pilot program in Columbus has been launched to assist businesses with mandated public improvements.

The Department of Development program will provide funding for small-scale projects, such as the rehabilitation of vacant and underused properties. Spokesperson Cameron Keir explained how the program might help business owners.

"If they're on a lot that has some drainage issues, maybe they need updated sidewalks, maybe they need ADA access or handicap parking, things that fall under the scope and purview of a city-mandated improvement for an upcoming business," Keir said. "That could be a huge difference."

Keir said that sometimes mandated improvements can discourage business owners from opening in certain locations. Because of the program, the city can give those business owners a hand.

Projects set to be assisted by the pilot program include a $325,000 funding gap for a $700,000 renovation of a building for the Rochester Center at 2503 Cleveland Ave., costs in excess of $200,000 for a $1 million rehabilitation of a vacant building for G's Shepard Springs Café at 900 Sunbury Road, and a $10,000 gap associated with renovations at Pellizcadas Los Primos at 2235 Sullivant Ave.

The pilot program is moving forward after Columbus City Council's approval last week. The legislation gave the green light to a $1 million contract between the Department of Development and Columbus-Franklin County Finance Authority.