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Debate over Columbus Road shared‑use path centers on safety, connectivity and cost
Summary
Athens council members and residents debated a proposed Columbus Road shared‑use path, with supporters citing safety and gateway improvements and critics calling the $350,000 project a poor priority after a recent income tax rejection; ODOT funding and design timing were central to the discussion.
The Athens transportation committee discussed a proposed Columbus Road shared‑use path on May 12, with committee chair Member Spielnis and city staff describing the project as a gateway enhancement and residents and council members raising concerns about cost, connectivity and timing.
Committee materials and a map shown at the meeting placed the turquoise shared‑use path along Columbus Road, past Memorial Healthcare System’s new hospital and toward nearby businesses. Member Spielnis said a bid timeline requires council action soon—bids must go out May 30—and that an emergency clause and suspension of rules would be needed to meet that schedule.
Resident comments were…
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