Republished courtesy of Columbus Rotary.
Downtown Columbus is moving forward — and the momentum is real.
At Rotary this week, we heard an exciting update on the Downtown 2030 Strategic Plan, completed in September 2025 with 60+ recommendations focused on economic development, public spaces, and year-round activation.
Already:
✔ 37 projects are in progress
✔ 30+ initiatives are actively being implemented
✔ New events like the S.E.A.R.S. Winter Market are bringing thousands downtown
✔ Activation of the Irwin Block and “4-Pack” redevelopment is underway
✔ Mill Race Park improvements, playground upgrades, wayfinding, and more are coming in 2026
Leading this important work:
Jake Sipe, Director of Community Development for the City of Columbus, has spent 25 years serving Indiana families and communities. He previously served 13 years as Executive Director of the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority and brings deep experience in housing and community development.
Bonnie Boatwright, a proud ambassador for Columbus since 1993, is project managing the implementation of the Downtown 2030 plan, the Entrance Plaza redevelopment, and the upcoming Parks Master Plan. With more than 20 years at Cummins and decades of civic involvement, she continues to help shape the future of our city.
With only 1.8% of our city living downtown, but 30% of Columbus-based jobs located there , this work matters. Increasing housing, vibrancy, and connectivity will strengthen our entire community.
Grateful for leaders who turn vision into action. The best is still ahead for downtown Columbus.
