Located just east of Columbus, Gahanna, Ohio, is a growing suburban city known for its walkable neighborhoods, thriving parks and trail system, and a historic core anchored by the popular Creekside District.
On November 3, 2025, the City of Gahanna unanimously adopted the Our Gahanna Strategic Plan and Economic Development Strategy, marking the culmination of a year-and-a-half-long process to define a shared roadmap for the city’s future. What began in 2024 as an open invitation for ideas grew into a comprehensive, community-rooted document shaped by more than 1,800 participants and 9,100 pieces of input gathered through surveys, workshops, Table Talks, open houses, and guided discussions.
From the start, the project focused on clarity of message and establishing a cohesive vision. Today, that vision, “a community where people, neighborhoods, and opportunities connect and thrive,” is supported by four core values: Vibrancy, Connections, Stewardship, and Community, which will anchor the plan.
Beyond building identity, the plan includes key strategies to enhance the Creekside District through improved walkability, public space upgrades, and a coordinated streetscape and parking approach. It also calls for investing in sidewalks and neighborhood infrastructure, diversifying housing options, expanding parks and recreation amenities, improving sustainability efforts, and modernizing public services to better meet community needs.
Completed alongside the Strategic Plan, Gahanna’s new Economic Development Plan defines a focused approach to strengthening existing industries, supporting small businesses, attracting new employers, and fostering partnerships that build a skilled, adaptable workforce.
With adoption complete, the city will transition to implementation in early 2026. This next phase includes aligning capital and operating budgets with the plan’s priorities, updating codes and policies, coordinating across departments, and establishing tools to track and communicate progress.
The adoption of Our Gahanna reflects a shared commitment to purposeful planning and thoughtful stewardship. With input from thousands of local voices, Planning NEXT, working with Julie Colley and Ningret Partners, designed a plan that positions Gahanna to grow with intention, preserve what residents cherish, and prepare for new opportunities ahead.
The full plan is available at Gahanna.gov/592/Our-Gahanna-Strategic-Plan and OurGahanna.com.
