By Okon Ekpenyong
The closing of local city malls, such as Eastland on the eastern side of Columbus, in December 2022, after 54 years in operation, has significantly impacted the local economy and small businesses, particularly those owned by refugees and immigrants. A comprehensive plan is needed to revitalize the area and ensure inclusive growth.
Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and neighborhood leaders initiated the Eastland Community Plan to create a community, real estate, and economic development framework. This plan seeks to address the Eastland community’s needs, challenges, and opportunities through a collaborative effort involving stakeholders from the community, city officials, and developers.
According to Carla Williams-Scott, the Director of the Department of Neighborhood for the City of Columbus, “Eastland Mall played a vital role in revitalizing this area, but presently, the city doesn’t own the mall. However, we aim to collaborate with the mall’s owners to revive the businesses that once existed there and meant so much to this community, but they have either moved farther east or shut down. Based on the data presented today, it’s evident that the community needs a grocery store and pharmacy, as residents have to travel a long distance to obtain necessities.”
The Eastland Community Plan has received funding for its development from the east-side area commissions in partnership with the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods. With extensive community input, MKSK will lead the plan to ensure that the development is intentional and inclusive for all residents and businesses in the area.
Sophia Pierrelus, the executive director of the New American Cultural Center, emphasized the importance of the plan’s data in offering refugees and immigrants better job opportunities and called for an efficient transportation system to facilitate their commute to and from work.
The planning stage for the area’s growth involves the participation of various stakeholders, including area commissioners, Central Ohio Transit Authority, community leaders, business leaders, faith leaders, and residents. Additionally, there is a talk to incorporate a facility in the area for the youth, as they have contributed to the area’s growth in the past.
Over 250 business owners, residents, and community advocates gathered at a recent event to see the developing ideas and project proposals based on input from various stakeholders. The plan aims to revitalize the Eastland area and promote economic growth and opportunities for all community members.
The Eastland Community Plan sets a promising path for the future of the east-side area of Columbus with the support of city officials, neighborhood leaders, and community members. The city is now accepting applications for a youth summer program and connecting youth with resources such as grants or funding for summer programs and after-school activities. The residents hope the Eastland Community Plan includes a community center that would benefit the youth and positively impact the community.
Support the New Americans magazine to continue to serve our community with precise news that affect the new American, immigrant and refugee community. https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=8LHFS78NRNJJY&source=url
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.