CityReporter

News & i nformation from the City of Westerville

Five Signs to Watch for in Uptown Westerville

When you’re new to Westerville, you learn relatively quickly that “Uptown” is actually “downtown,” a district nearly in the direct center of the community where commerce, commuting and other bustling activities take place day and night (that includes devotees to the 2 a.m. Schneider’s Bakery doughnut run).

In Westerville, it’s an area of town that has successfully held its old-generation charm while featuring new-generation dining, shopping and entertainment. Uptown is the core of the community, many say. Its shops, specialty stores, eateries and atmosphere attract people from all over central Ohio. And it remains one of the City’s most burgeoning business districts, home to a variety of small and mid-sized businesses.

“Districts like this are rare in a modern-day community, and Westerville is committed to protecting the charm and attraction of the Uptown area,” says Julie Colley, Assistant City Manager. “Uptown generates such camaraderie, whether it’s among those of us who work there day in and day out or the shoppers and tourists in for the afternoon. People genuinely enjoy the opportunity to have lunch, shop and walk around and enjoy their community.”

Coming Attractions

Business owners continue to find prime Uptown retail space ideal for development and opportunity. A New York-style deli from the owners of Jimmy V’s is up next. The restaurant is set to move into the former D.J.’s Feed Store on State Street, with an opening expected this spring. Other businesses continue to thrive in Uptown, featuring retail and dining for every taste and budget. Visit the Westerville Uptown Merchants Association website at www.shopuptownwesterville.com for store information, special events, news and announcements.

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Redevelopment of the Former Tea House

In 2011, the City purchased properties at 109 S. State St. and 20 W. Plum St. The house at 109 S. State, which had been known at the Kyoto Tea House, previously operated as an attraction and educational facility on Japanese culture. Due to deteriorating conditions at both properties, the buildings were demolished late last year. The City preserved original mosaic tiles depicting Mt. Fuji, a famous decorative feature in the Tea House, to be used for public education purposes and as part of the future development of the site. Development planning for the former Tea House site is still in the pipeline.

Façade Improvement Program

Last year, the City of Westerville approved a program that helps protect and promote Uptown’s distinct character through façade – or exterior – improvements. For structures that originated more than 100 years ago, the program seeks to reinvest in projects that restore historic or architecturally significant features to Uptown’s buildings. For more information, contact Economic Development Administrator Jason Bechtold at 614-901-6403.

’Tis the Season – 4th Fridays

The Westerville Visitor and Convention Bureau created 4th Fridays in part to reintroduce Westerville to Uptown, and that they did. Since an average of 8,000 attendees come to the popular all-Uptown “block party,” 4th Fridays have become the don’t-miss events during the months of April through October. Live music, family entertainment, food and every imaginable vendor have made Uptown irresistible during 4th Friday. See www.visitwesterville.org for dates and details.

The Return of Spring

A hanging flower basket may not seem the most important characteristic of Uptown, but it is a sure signal that spring is in the air when they are back for another season. The flower baskets have become special in the district, resulting in one of the most common questions to the Parks & Recreation Department: “How do you get those flowers to grow like that?” It’s a local legend, perhaps, but one that regularly captures the admiration and imagination of our residents and visitors. Look online for tips and instructions on the flower baskets from the City’s horticulturist. Visit the City website (www.westerville.org) for tips and instructions.

Westerville Senior Center Announces New Hours

The Westerville Senior Center announces new evening hours starting March 6. In an effort to better serve its members, the Center will be open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m. These new hours will allow our working members the opportunity to participate in our programs.

While the building will operate normally during these evening hours, each night will also play host to new programs and opportunities. Tuesdays will focus on fitness programs, Wednesdays will have a music/arts theme and Thursdays will feature card parties, guest lecturers and more.

For more information, please contact the Westerville Senior Center at 614-901-6560.