Short North Streetscape Improvements Columbus, Ohio

Services Provided

Streetscape Design
Preliminary Engineering Plan
Construction Documentation

People Involved

Brian Kinzelman
Matt Manda
Jeff Bryan
Tim Rosenthal

Resource for guiding incremental public improvements and an enhanced pedestrian experience, all toward a greater vision for the neighborhood

The Short North High Street Streetscape Master Plan provides a resource for guiding incremental public improvements toward a greater vision for the neighborhood. It complements the well-developed mix of boutique retailers, art galleries, and urban living, while providing a strategic design for enhancing the safety, comfort, and quality of the pedestrian experience.

Specific recommendations are provided for street and public space improvements through the 15-block, historic district north of downtown Columbus, ideas range from parking arrangements to the design of small urban open spaces for outdoor dining and retailing. The plan proposes a “face-lift” to enhance its overall aesthetic and to build on the growing success of the Short North.

Lengthy field time was spent to accurately assess existing conditions and create a master plan. Close collaboration between MKSK and the Short North Special Improvement District Board was necessary. MKSK was responsible for a master plan report documenting the analysis, improvement recommendations, and proposals for effectively applying the City of Columbus’ existing streetscape-improvement funds. Numerous concepts were constructed as the local SID continues incremental implementation of the plan.

As part of the Preliminary Engineering study, MKSK provided an inventory of existing conditions within the corridor and conceptual design studies of each block within this section of High Street including coordination with the Columbus Convention Center Expansion improvements. MKSK was involved in all aspects of the preliminary design and engineering and four phases of implementation.