Uptown recognized as a ‘Great Place’ in Ohio

The Ohio Chapter of the American Planning Association recently recognized Uptown Westerville as a “Great Place” in Ohio.

In explaining the awards, the association said the program recognizes places in the state that are thriving due to extensive planning efforts and public-private partnerships.

“’Great Places’ represent the gold standard in Ohio’s neighborhoods, public spaces and commercial districts,” the APA Ohio said.

“Uptown Westerville is one of the most well-preserved town centers in Ohio. It is home to public anchors including Westerville City Hall, the public library, and Otterbein University.

“Residents, students and visitors alike are drawn to Uptown because of its inviting scale, colorful history, and the many shops, restaurants, galleries and businesses that bring the area to life.”

“Residents, students and visitors alike are drawn to Uptown because of its inviting scale, colorful history, and the many shops, restaurants, galleries and businesses that bring the area to life,” the association said, in its announcement of the awards.

The APA also noted that in 2019, Uptown earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, and that since 2004, a city matching grant program has produced more than 60 private investments in façade and building improvements, adding more than $1.7 million in projects, “that have restored and reactivated historic properties.”

“Since the Uptown Plan’s adoption almost 10 years ago, the district has been thriving – thanks to the efforts of thoughtful City policies, proactive and collaborative planning, and numerous partnerships – and today is recognized as a Great Place in Ohio.”

The Planning Association awards were presented at APA Ohio’s State Planning Conference, held Sept. 27-29 in Columbus. The biennial awards program of the chapter was judged by a panel of members of the Illinois and Michigan APA chapters.

Also recognized as Great Places were Lakewood Park in Lakewood, and the Upper Arlington Historic District.