Survey seeks community feedback on how to make the Short North more accessible

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Short North is a beloved neighborhood in Columbus, with lots of shopping, dining and entertainment. A local group is hoping to make the area even better with community feedback.

The Short North Alliance is in the middle of a survey focused on how to make the neighborhood more accessible for pedestrians and cyclists, and they're asking everyone to participate.

“Community feedback is critical so that we can assist the community in identifying where we can make infrastructure improvements that support biking and walking,” said Betsy Pandora, executive director of the Short North Alliance.

People who were out and about in the neighborhood Wednesday shared some feedback they have.

“It’s a wonderfully busy area," said Claudia Anderson, a longtime Columbus resident. "Sometimes it’s a little crowded. Later evenings, when it’s not the weekend, are very enjoyable and it’s not a busy bar crowd which is really nice."

Anderson said she’s enjoyed seeing the revitalization of the Short North over the years, but that there are some areas for improvement.

Street parking on High Street can be a bit chaotic, especially with bikers and walkers constantly in the area. Anderson said it can turn dangerous with many drivers looking for a parking spot or their dinner reservation.

“Many people are looking for specific things and so they aren’t paying attention to the cyclists or the motorcyclists, which is important,” said Anderson.

Erica O’Neil is visiting from out of town and said her first impression of the Short North is wonderful. She said it’s entertaining and very walkable with all the stoplights and crosswalks. But there are some things she has already noticed about the neighborhood.

“I found the crosswalks really easy to navigate," O'Neil said. "I think accessibility would probably matter more with some of the buildings. Like I have an elderly mother and I was just thinking today there is no way I would be able to bring her here."

This kind of feedback is what Pandora said the Short North Alliance is looking for with their survey. She is encouraging anyone and everyone to participate.

“What’s really exciting about the study is you can not only answer some survey questions to give your perspective directly, but you can actually make locations on a map where you can show us if there are areas where improvements could be made,” said Pandora.

If you want to participate in that survey, click here. Each participant will be entered into a raffle to win a $100 gift card to spend at any Short North business.