Columbus Housing Creates 6,500 Jobs in $334M Build Season

Columbus is about to experience its biggest affordable housing boom in nearly a century, and thousands of families stand to benefit.

The Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority announced plans for eight construction projects this summer worth more than $334 million. The projects will create over 6,500 jobs across Franklin County while adding hundreds of new and renovated affordable housing units.

"As central Ohio continues to grow, CMHA remains committed to ensuring that people of all income levels have access to quality housing," said Charles Hillman, CMHA president and CEO. The developments span from downtown Columbus to the suburbs of Dublin, Grove City, and Reynoldsburg.

One standout project is The Falls, a 220-unit apartment community on the Southeast Side that marks the first time CMHA has built and fully funded a development on its own. In Franklinton, the new 234-unit Westrich development will begin leasing this month next to the River & Rich mixed-use complex.

Other projects include renovating the 66-year-old Nelson Park community on the Near East Side and expanding the Demorest Townhomes in Grove City from 48 units to 150. Dublin will get its first inclusive affordable housing development designed specifically for people with disabilities and older adults.

The Ripple Effect

Every dollar CMHA spends returns $2.24 to Ohio's economy, according to research from the Ohio Chamber of Commerce Research Foundation. That means these summer projects alone are expected to generate nearly $750 million in total economic activity for Central Ohio.

The impact reaches beyond construction workers. Local businesses, suppliers, and service providers will see increased demand as these communities take shape. Families who secure affordable housing will have more money to spend in their neighborhoods instead of being crushed by rent costs.

"Housing and economic growth go hand in hand," Hillman said. "The projects we're launching this summer will create thousands of jobs, generate significant economic activity, and expand housing opportunities across Franklin County."

Board Chair James L. Ervin Jr. emphasized that these investments benefit not just CMHA residents but also businesses and workers across the entire state. When people have stable, affordable housing, entire communities thrive.

After 92 years of serving Columbus, CMHA is proving that investing in people and their homes creates prosperity everyone can share.