Activation + Programming

by Bonnie Boatwright One of the recommendations in the Columbus Downtown 2030 Strategic Plan (AP-03) calls  for reducing barriers to outdoor programming and events by creating a simpler, more accessible event approval process. The recommendation recognizes a challenge shared by many community organizations, businesses, and event organizers: while there was great enthusiasm for activating downtown, [...]

by Bonnie Boatwright The Columbus Downtown 2030 Strategic Plan envisions transforming underutilized spaces into vibrant destinations where people gather, connect, and experience downtown. One recommendation (RE-09) calls for activating the former Sears parking lot with a temporary “eatertainment” venue - a place that combines food, entertainment, and community while the site awaits long-term redevelopment. This [...]

by Laura Garrett In downtown Columbus, few buildings carry as much history or future potential as the Crump Theatre. Identified in the Downtown 2030 Plan as Action Project AP-07, the effort to rehabilitate the historic theater into a flexible entertainment venue continues to gain momentum through active design work, fundraising, and community engagement. Originally opened [...]

By Jake Sipe Director, Community Development Big plans can sometimes feel distant from everyday life—but in Columbus, the Downtown 2030 Strategic Plan is already taking shape in visible, meaningful ways. One key recommendation, known as RE-15, focuses on strengthening the partnership between the Office of Downtown Development and the City’s Community Development Department. While that [...]

In alignment with its 2025 Destination Master Plan and the City of Columbus’ Downtown 2030 Plan, Visit Columbus has launched an Event Calendar which will serve as the official community calendar for Columbus and all of Bartholomew County. Available at ComeSeeColumbus.com/events, the calendar serves as a centralized, comprehensive resource for residents and visitors seeking information [...]

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 ✔ [...]