Daycare chain breaks ground on second central Ohio location

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Lightbridge Academy, a daycare with locations across the east coast, is continuing its Ohio expansion with a Powell center.

The New Jersey-based daycare chain began construction this month on the upcoming Powell location at 4074 Powell Road. The Powell Chamber of Commerce joined Lightbridge for a groundbreaking on Oct. 17, where the academy announced its $2,000 donation to Alex's Sunnyside Playroom, a program that provides family-friendly playrooms in U.S. cancer hospitals.

With more than 150 academies across the eastern U.S., Lightbridge claims its centers are "more than just a daycare," providing "a stimulating learning environment and comprehensive curriculum for infants, toddlers and preschoolers." The academy is known for offering extended hours, back-up care and even special events like "Parent's Night Out."

"The Lightbridge Academy program creates a warm, enriching environment that seamlessly bridges the gap between home and school," Craig Murray, Lightbridge's chief development officer, said in a statement. "Our cutting-edge technology sets the gold standard for communication and health and safety in our centers, ensuring peace of mind for families."

The Powell groundbreaking came after Lightbridge started construction in August on its first central Ohio academy in Dublin at 4905 Blazer Parkway. At the Dublin groundbreaking, the daycare donated to Every Child A Swimmer, a program that raises awareness about water safety and helps ensure children have access to swim lessons. The funds will specifically support swim lessons at Goldfish Swim School in Dublin.

"At Lightbridge Academy, our unwavering commitment is to provide a safe, healthy and nurturing space, paired with an innovative curriculum that empowers children to reach their full academic, social and emotional potential," Murray said.

Lightbridge also operates an Ohio academy in Centerville at 1180 E. Alex Bell Road.