Columbus Discovery Special Improvement District
Downtown Columbus, OH
Established in 2005 through a petition by downtown stakeholders, the Discovery Special Improvement District (SID) brought together property owners with a shared vision for a clean, safe, and welcoming downtown. By choosing to self-assess and invest in enhanced public services, members partnered with SID staff to create a stronger, more connected community for everyone who lives, works, and visits the area.
Over the past 20 years, the Discovery SID has played a vital role in shaping the vibrancy of downtown Columbus through advocacy, collaboration, and a commitment to maintaining a safe, diverse, and walkable mixed-use neighborhood. Located on the eastern half of downtown, the district is home to educational institutions such as Columbus College of Art & Design, Columbus State Community College, and Capital University Law School, as well as cultural landmarks like the Columbus Museum of Art, Topiary Park, Blockfort, and the Columbus Metropolitan Library.
Through innovative programs including a dedicated cleaning initiative, a compassionate homeless outreach team, engaging community events, and an internationally recognized safety network, the Discovery SID helped make downtown Columbus a place where people feel connected, supported, and proud to call home.
2005 - 2025
Project completed by current Neighborhood Strategies staff during their leadership of the SID Public Services Association.
SERVICES
Community Engagement
Community Activation Programming & Events
Public-Private Partnerships
Fundraising & Grant Writing
Community Outreach & Education
Supplemental Safety & Cleaning Services
Homeless Outreach Services
Placemaking
Landscaping
KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Developed 3-time award-winning safety program
Homeless Outreach Team assisted over 200 individuals annually to find temporary or permanent housing
Created the annual State of Downtown Economic Development Report
>>> Award-Winning Collaborative Safety Program Unites Private & Public Partners
In response to the community’s desire for a safer downtown, an innovative safety program was developed for the Discovery Special Improvement District that has become a model of collaboration and effectiveness. A dedicated team of uniformed professionals worked tirelessly to maintain a safe and welcoming environment, offering services such as safety escorts, directions, vehicle jump-starts, and flat tire assistance. These Safety Ambassadors patrolled the district by bike alongside special duty police officers, providing a reassuring presence and enabling rapid, coordinated responses to issues that arose. These efforts were strengthened by the SID’s award-winning security network, which featured real-time monitoring and communication among more than 50 security partners via radio and video feed. Behind the scenes, SID staff facilitated continuous communication among security partners, the Division of Police, and other stakeholders to share information, conduct training, and ensure preparedness. Through these strong partnerships and a proactive approach, the SID ensured downtown remained both safe and welcoming for everyone.
>>> Compassionate Homeless Outreach Empowers Changes & Independence
The Discovery District established a dedicated Homeless Outreach Team committed to connecting individuals experiencing homelessness to essential services and long-term pathways toward stability. Engaging with people on the street, in the office, and at the Main Library throughout the week, the team provided consistent, compassionate support for those most in need. Each year, team members contributed thousands of hours of outreach, helping hundreds of clients secure emergency shelter and permanent housing, access transportation assistance, and obtain physical and mental health services. Partnering closely with downtown social service organizations, they tailored their approach to meet each individual’s unique needs, connecting clients with employment assistance, veterans’ benefits, and vital identification documents. The team’s ability to navigate systemic barriers led to meaningful outcomes that fostered independence, stability, and well-being. Through these efforts, the Homeless Outreach Team strengthened the community by improving safety and enhancing the quality of life throughout the district.
>>> Cleaning Program Reinforces a Clean, Welcoming Downtown Environment
Dedicated to maintaining an inviting downtown environment free of litter and graffiti, the Discovery SID launched comprehensive cleaning program for downtown businesses, residents, and visitors. The initiative included litter and debris removal, snow and leaf clearing from sidewalks and ramps, installation of dog waste stations, and complimentary graffiti removal for property owners within the Discovery SID boundary. These efforts helped improve and maintain the district’s appearance and walkability, reinforcing the area as a beautiful, well-maintained destination.
>>> Community Events Strengthen Connections & Create a Vibrant Downtown
Responding to a desire for community activities and stronger connections among residents, visitors, and businesses, Discovery Special Improvement District, together with the Capital Crossroads Special Improvement District, launched a series of dynamic community events in downtown Columbus. Designed to offer something for everyone, the program featured movie nights under the stars, outdoor yoga, farmers markets, live music, mindfulness events, an annual Holiday Trolley Hop, and more. These evening and weekend events appealed to all who worked, lived, and visited the district, inviting them to engage in experiences that went beyond the typical workday hours. These initiatives transformed downtown into a vibrant gathering place, fostering connection, activity, and a stronger sense of community for all.
Awards
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Matthew Simeone Award for Public/Private Excellence, ASIS International
Recognizes outstanding achievement by a private organization and a law enforcement agency in the advocacy, development, implementation, and practice of public-private cooperation for public safety.
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National Public/Private Partnership Award, National Homeland Security Association
Awarded for connecting private security professionals with police officers to share vital information through a security website and radio network.
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Outstanding Community Policing Strategy Award, Ohio Crime Prevention Association
Recognizes organizations and individuals for outstanding contributions in community policing and the success of community engagement initiatives.
