Project aims to shape the future of Linden
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Organizers are giving an update on the work being done by the One Linden plan. The City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods and dozens of city leaders gathered Tuesday in partnership with the Linden Community to highlight the process.
Project leaders have said over and over again that One Linden isn't just a plan, it's a long-term commitment to the community.
'I think tonight is a celebration,' Community of Caring Development Foundation CEO Adam Troy said. 'There are many of us who have been working on this for five-plus years now, from the inception.'
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The One Linden Plan was completed in 2018 and it focuses on 10 big ideas. Among those are to stabilize and expand housing options, support student success, reimagine Cleveland Avenue, connect the community, connect residents to employment and reduce crime.
'I think that Linden Community is one of the best-kept secrets in Franklin County,' Troy said.
According to data, for the first time in decades, greater Linden grew at a rate of 7.3%. However, affordable housing continues to be an ongoing concern.
'Everyone needs a place to call home, whether it's a strong rental or it's a homeownership opportunity,' Hope Paxson of the Franklin County Land Bank said.
Since joining the One Linden Plan, the Franklin County Land Bank has built and sold 28 homes in Linden for home ownership in partnership with Healthy Homes. Paxson also said the land bank is working on another project that'll add another 14 singular residential homes.
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'People need to be able to go someplace and with their families and be able to feel safe,' she said.
A survey done in 2023 showed that the top three community concerns were crime reduction, community connectivity, and housing stability. As for education, all Linden public school's attendance fell between 2016 and 2023. However, high school graduation rates are improving.
'Every child deserves a shot in life, but we definitely know if the child can't read, success is not going to be theirs,' North Linden Area Commission vice president Tracy Robinson said.
Leaders said that while One Linden has made significant strides in housing, education, safety and economic development, the work is only just beginning.
To view the whole progress report, click here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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