15th & High Infrastructure
Project Summary
The development of University Square created an opportunity to significantly improve the infrastructure of the area both above and below ground. Street level improvements aimed to connect The Ohio State University campus with the new development as well as the adjacent neighborhood. An emphasis on improving walkability and vehicular circulation created wider sidewalks and reconnected roadways to High Street that were once eliminated in the 1970s. Other street level improvements include:
Improved street lighting, granite curbs, and street trees
Conversion of Pearl Alley to two-way vehicular traffic
Conversion of East 15th Avenue to two-way traffic between High Street and Pearl Alley
Recycled brick pavers for Pearl Alley
New High Street pavement and pedestrian crosswalks
Below ground, significant work was done to improve stormwater and sewer lines. The area has long been plagued by street level flooding during heavy rain events due to an outdated combined sewer system. New storm sewers were installed to provide greater capacity a century-old 72” brick sanitary sewer was relined.
Total project costs were $29,900,000 with funding provided by TIF dollars, the City of Columbus, and Ohio Public Works Commission. Campus Partners secured the funding, provided design and construction management oversight.
