Housing in Central Ohio is about to get a big boost. Leaders from across the region, including Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, have come together to form the Regional Housing Coalition.
This new group aims to shake up how housing is built in Central Ohio, making it more affordable and accessible while preparing for a rapidly growing population.
If you work here, you should be able to live here.
But that’s becoming harder as housing costs rise. Mayor Ginther put it plainly: “Columbus cannot be the sole housing provider of our region. This is a time for us to lead, and to act, and to do so in a comprehensive, collaborative way.”
The numbers back him up. By 2030, Central Ohio is projected to have more families than homes, creating a housing supply crisis. Right now, the median household income in the area is $76,000, but a homebuyer needs to earn at least $90,000 per year to afford a house. Something has to change, and leaders are ready to make that happen.
The Coalition builds on work started in 2021 when Mayor Ginther teamed up with housing advocate Lark Mallory and economic leader Kenny McDonald. Together, they created task forces to tackle the region’s housing challenges from four angles: supply, affordability, equity and advocacy, and coordination.
They brought together over 150 community stakeholders to brainstorm solutions, but they quickly realized they needed a regional approach to make real progress.
That’s where the Regional Housing Coalition comes in.
“The lack of affordable housing impacts everyone – from senior citizens and those on fixed incomes to families just starting out,” said Reynoldsburg Mayor Joe Begeny. Reynoldsburg is already stepping up, partnering with Franklin County to build affordable housing right in the city’s core. Mayor Begeny believes collaboration is key: “By working together, we can make a meaningful impact in the lives of our community members.”
So what’s next? Over the coming months, the Coalition will work with regional partners to develop a solid business plan. Their goal is to streamline efforts across Central Ohio, break down barriers, and find ways to make housing affordable for everyone.
It’s a bold move, but as Kenny McDonald of One Columbus points out, it’s necessary: “Sustaining [our population growth] requires comprehensive planning coupled with bold action.” Featured image via Flickr.
