News

  • MORPC Seeks Public Comments on New Transportation Projects

    December 14, 2016

    A proposed list of new transportation projects was recently released by MORPC for over $82 million in federal funds from state fiscal years 2017 through 2023.  If you would like to provide your input on these proposed projects, let us know before the upcoming deadline.

  • Air Quality Continues to Improve in Central Ohio

    December 13, 2016

    Now that the 2016 ozone season has come to a close, MORPC released its annual report. 

  • MORPC Seeking State of the Region Award Nominations

    December 12, 2016

    MORPC is now accepting nominations for the Regional Leadership Award and the William C. Habig Collaborative Achievement Award. The awards will be presented at the State of the Region Luncheon on April 20, 2017. Nominations must be received by Friday, January 6, 2017. 

  • Non-Profit Assists Local Governments in Redevelopment Efforts

    December 1, 2016

    Do you have an abandoned gas station in your community and want to clean up the property?  With the help of the recently formed Ohio UST Community Improvement Corporation (Ohio UST CIC) and a new program from the Ohio Development Services Agency, Central Ohio’s local communities now have needed help and resources to repurpose abandoned gas station sites.

  • Thea Walsh Presents at White House Event

    December 1, 2016

    Experts from across the country met at the White House this week to explore Electrical Vehicles (EV) best practices and how data collection and management can inform efforts to deploy EVs in growing regions. MORPC Transportation Systems and Funding Director, Thea Walsh presented to the experts and participated in brainstorming sessions at the meeting.

  • MORPC and Franklin Soil and Water Work to Protect Natural Resources

    November 30, 2016

    MORPC and Franklin Soil and Water are holding two upcoming open houses. These events are an opportunity for residents to learn about and provide feedback on the preparation of a plan to restore and protect valuable natural resources within the Blacklick Creek watershed.

  • MORPC Submits Priority Road Projects to TRAC

    November 2, 2016

    MORPC recently submitted to Ohio's Transportation Review Advisory Council its members’ recommended prioritization for four project funding requests within the MORPC transportation planning area.

    Ohio’s Transportation Review Advisory Council (TRAC) is a nine-member advisory council chaired by ODOT Director Jerry Ray. TRAC approves funding for the development and construction of the Major New Capacity Program. This includes projects that are more than $12 million in cost and increase capacity and/or reduce congestion. Applying projects must also demonstrate a significant impact on jobs, with extra consideration granted to projects that have strong (30 percent or higher) non-ODOT funding commitments. 

  • MORPC Showcases Home Energy Services at Groveport Home

    October 25, 2016

    To coincide with the changing seasons, MORPC recently hosted its annual Weatherization Showcase at the home of Shelly Murphy, a Groveport resident. The showcase provides the opportunity for community leaders, program funders, and the public to see MORPC’s weatherization services in action and highlights the value of these important services.

  • MORPC Announces 2016 Green Region Award Winners at Summit on Sustainability

    October 21, 2015

    Every year, MORPC’s Summit on Sustainability offers another opportunity to honor and recognize the individuals and organizations that have made Central Ohio a more sustainable region. While the Summit features a variety of keynote speakers and breakout sessions on a variety of topics, one of the highlights of the day is the presentation of the Green Region Awards.

  • Age-Friendly Columbus Survey Deadline Approaching

    October 19, 2016

    The Age-Friendly Columbus survey will only be available through October 31st. We invite all Columbus residents 50 or older to participate in this important initiative before the upcoming deadline.

  • Attributable Funding Process Underway

    October 12, 2016

    The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission’s Attributable Funding process is underway for selecting and funding local transportation projects.

  • 2016 Central Ohio Trick-or-Treat

    October 4, 2016

    MORPC's suggested 2016 Trick-or-Treat date for Central Ohio communities is Monday, October 31st. Individual community dates are available in an interactive map as well as a static listing. We encourage planning ahead to ensure fun and safe activities.

  • MORPC Interns Serve Public over Summer Break

    September 27, 2016

    MORPC’s Local Government Internship Program provided 16 college students with the opportunity to obtain a professional experience, by working at a local government entity. For 10 weeks this summer, students engaged in public service by working at various local government entities throughout Central Ohio.

  • Age-Friendly Columbus Launches Website

    September 20 , 2016

    Central Ohio’s population of 65 years or older is expected to double over the next 35 years. In order to ensure that individuals of all ages can remain in their neighborhoods and live a high quality of life the City of Columbus and MORPC announced the creation of Age-Friendly Columbus.

    Now, we are pleased to announce the launch of www.agefriendlycolumbus.org.

  • Join the Conversation at the Summit on Sustainability!

    September 19, 2016

    The 2016 Summit on Sustainability is quickly approaching and tickets are selling fast. Join the conversation and learn how we can create a more sustainable future.

  • MORPC Works with Students on Summer Tactical Urbanism Projects

    September 2, 2016

    Summer is a time for students to take a break and relax, yet it’s also an opportunity to learn and give back to your community.

  • Spencer Reeder Announced as Breakfast Keynote Speaker for Summit on Sustainability

    August 30, 2016

    Spencer Reeder leads Vulcan’s climate and energy work. Reeder will inform attendees at the morning program, titled Sustainability= Purpose, Planning, & Partnerships. He will focus on Smart Columbus and how it will harness data, technology, and creativity to reimagine how people and goods move throughout the region.

  • MORPC Releases Top 100 High Crash Intersections

    August 29, 2016

    Understanding where traffic crashes occur is a critical first step in enhancing the safety of roadways in Central Ohio. In order to improve crash prone areas, the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) releases its Top 100 Regional High-Crash Intersections list from 2013 through 2015.

  • Home Weatherization Program Helps Franklin County Residents Stay Cool in the Summer

    August 16, 2016

    With the hot weather this summer, it’s important to make sure your home is cool and running efficiently.

    Income-eligible Franklin County residents can benefit from MORPC’s year-round home weatherization program, which is a free service to reduce energy consumption and improve health, safety, and comfort.

  • Register for Inaugural insight2050 Academy

    August 15, 2016

    Learn something new this fall and register for the inaugural insight2050 Academy!

  • MORPC Announces Keynote Luncheon Speakers for Summit on Sustainability

    August 11, 2016

    The Summit on Sustainability is MORPC’s signature environmental conference and this year’s luncheon will feature local food entrepreneurs in a Pecha Kucha style format. The speakers will inform you on sustainable practices related to food production, sourcing, processing, packaging, and distribution.

  • William Murdock Participates in White House Roundtable

    July 28, 2016

    Elected officials and Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) officials from across the country recently met at the White House to discuss the important role local governments play in strengthening the fabric of communities. MORPC Executive Director, William Murdock participated in the discussion at the White House.

  • Laura Koprowski Receives Leadership Award from National Association of Regional Councils

    July 28, 2016

    Laura Koprowski, MORPC's Public and Government Affairs Director, won the National Association of Regional Councils (NARC) 2016 John Bosley Leadership Award.

  • Funds Available for Local Infrastructure Improvement Projects

    July 27, 2016

    Does your neighborhood need basic infrastructure improvements or funds? If so, your community may be eligible for an infrastructure project grant.  

  • Save the Date for 2016 Summit on Sustainability

    July 13, 2016

    The Summit on Sustainability is MORPC’s signature environmental conference and will be held Friday, October 21, 2016 from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Hilton Columbus Downtown. Register now to join in the conversation.

  • Learn How to Improve Your Community at Grant Forum

    July 13, 2016

    Learn something new this summer and attend the grant forum at MORPC!  Local experts will offer their insight on best practices and address common mistakes people make when writing grants.

  • Columbus Wins Smart City Challenge

    July 11, 2016

    Columbus has won Smart City Challenge and will receive $40 million from U.S. DOT and $10 million from Paul G. Allen’s Vulcan Inc.  Regional partners already raised an additional $90 million, illustrating the collaborative nature of the city and region.

    These funds will transform Central Ohio’s transportation system and provide more options for residents. 

  • Join us at the Central Ohio Commuter Challenge Celebration

    June 22, 2016

    This month, Central Ohioans have reduced vehicular congestion and improved air quality throughout the region by choosing sustainable modes of transportation. We are excited to wrap up the month of June by celebrating the Central Ohio Commuter Challenge.

  • Efforts Can Improve Air Quality during Summer Heat

    June 22, 2016

    Now that summer has officially arrived, it’s important for us to be aware of the air we breathe and do our part in improving the overall air quality in the region.

  • MORPC Supports Alternative Funding Tool for Local Roadways and Infrastructure

    June 21, 2016

    Local governments too often are challenged with constrained budgets and deteriorating infrastructure. MORPC supports commonsense legislation that seeks to provide additional revenue and innovative funding mechanisms to local governments. It is in that spirit that we support Ohio House Bill 528.  

  • New Edition of Columbus Metro Bike Map Now Available

    June 8, 2016

    Have a bike, but don’t know where to go? You’re in luck because the fifth edition of the Columbus Metro Bike Map is now available online, at local bike shops, and public libraries!

  • MORPC Seeking Nominations for Green Region Awards

    June 6, 2016

    Do you know someone or an organization in Central Ohio that is working to create a more vibrant and sustainable region? If so, MORPC is seeking nominations for this year’s Green Region Awards. Nominations are accepted through June 30, 2016.

  • Join us at Riverfest on Saturday

    June 6, 2016

    With the warm weather season upon us, it’s once again time to celebrate Central Ohio’s water resources with Riverfest! Join us in Downtown Columbus from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on June 11 for canoeing, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and boat watching along the Scioto River.

  • New Regional Transportation Plan Responds to Region’s Growth

    May 26, 2016

    In a region growing as fast as Central Ohio, economic success depends on preparing a transportation system to accommodate thousands of additional future travelers.

    The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) works with its local, state, and federal partners to identity transportation needs and strategies that look 20 years ahead and meet the region’s need. This plan, the 2016-2040 Columbus Area Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP), was adopted by the commission May 12th.

  • Columbus Submits Final Smart City Application With Broad Support From Regional Partners

    May 26, 2016

    Local officials from the city of Columbus gathered to celebrate the submission of the city’s application for the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) $40 million Smart Cities Challenge grant.

    To highlight the strength of the city’s application, leaders announced that public and private partners pledged $90 million in matching funds. If Columbus is awarded the grant and received additional support, Central Ohio could have up to $140 million to use to make the region the nation’s epicenter of advanced vehicle and transportation infrastructure research and development.