NW Franklin News

Hilliard residents will have numerous opportunities this summer to comment on the ideas that have been suggested by their neighbors for future growth and development as part of the City’s community planning process.

Volunteers from the “Hilliard by Design” comprehensive plan committee will be setting up displays highlighting these concepts at various community events in June and July. Community members will have a chance to see and comment on recommendations that have been made on topics ranging from future land use, public and private development, transportation, infrastructure, parks, trails, and other community amenities.

“We are at the mid-point of the ‘Hilliard by Design’ process. Now, we take all the ideas that have come from our community so far and begin to put the pieces together into a comprehensive plan that will guide growth and development in the community for decades to come,” said Dan Ralley, Assistant City Manager and Director of Community Development. “We want to hear from as many people as possible, because it is crucial that our residents’ opinions inform this process.”

Look for volunteers at the “Hilliard by Design” tent at six upcoming events:

• Celebration at the Station, Hilliard Station Park: 5:30-9 p.m. Thursday, June 16
• Historical Society Art Show, 4100 Columbia Street: 11 a.m. Saturday, June 18
• Freedom Fest, Municipal Park: 4 p.m. Saturday, July 2
• Celebration at the Station, Hilliard Station Park” 5:30-9 p.m. Thursday, July 14
• Adult Recess, Hilliard Station Park: 5:30 p.m. Saturday, July 16
• Get the Scoop, Hilliard Station Park: 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 27

“The master document resulting from ‘Hilliard by Design’ will inform many decisions about the location, character, and extent of public and private development, land use, and infrastructure,” Ralley said. “Hearing from our community will help ensure this plan represents the vision our residents have for their community.”

The Hilliard by Design process started in late 2021. There have been numerous community meetings and online opportunities for people to offer ideas. As a result, City staff and the community committee have drafted parts of the plan, which include reimagining Cemetery Road, strengthening Downtown Hilliard, improving development in the I-270 corridor, and conserving the western boundary.

“This is an exciting process, but it only works if community members participate and make their voices heard,” Ralley said.

Learn more about Hilliard by Design and participate online at Talk2Us.Hilliardohio.gov.