New project will better connect Hilltop neighborhood

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced $63 million of funding toward traffic safety projects across the state.  

The funding comes from the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Highway Safety Improvement program and one of those includes a shared-use path coming to the Hilltop neighborhood of Columbus. 

“There’s tracks along the side of the street that give us pretty clear indication that people are using the corridor as pedestrians,” Brian Ashworth, the transportation planning manager for the city of Columbus, said.  

The city is sponsoring the project on Eakin Road which will run from South Wayne Avenue to Harrisburg Pike. 

“We also have a couple intersection improvements where there will be a flashing beacon to let people know where they can cross safely and will alert vehicles that someone is using the crosswalk,” Ashworth said.  

Liz Chapman, a mother who lives in the area, said she’s been pushing for the project for about a year. She said it first came to her attention when her daughter had to walk home from the bus stop. 

“It was just really frustrating that I felt like she was walking along this dangerous busy street with no sidewalk,” Chapman said.  

The shared-use path will connect the neighborhood to a school, park and grocery store.  

“Every time I drive down there, I see at least half a dozen people riding their bikes, walking along the side of the road or through parking lots,” Chapman said. “It’s really unsafe.” 

Once she saw the change that was needed, Chapman started attending city meetings, submitting 311 requests, and talking to city representatives.  

“We’re always on the lookout for where we have gaps in our sidewalk connectivity and where people are looking to go,” Ashworth said. 

Construction is slated to begin in 2026 and finish in 2027.