COLUMBUS, Ohio - After months of research, a group of OSU students made their final pitch on Wednesday for real life solutions to problems lingering on the west side of Columbus. “The quality and well-being of people is very important, obviously in the west side. Currently, the west side has about 5.2 acres per 1000 people and Columbus deems it adequate green space to have 5.5 acres; and so they have a deficiency there,” said OSU senior Daniel Yontz.

They said that deficiency can be corrected by by taking advantage of a new bike path that's already in the works over the next few years, and ultimately, more green space.The trail itself will follow the rail road tracks, which are close to Columbus’ casino.

Jody Dzuranin, with Consider Biking, is ready to see a completed path on the west side. “So, this is a key section that will welcome people in to Franklin County,” said Dzuranin.

She's excited about the 325 mile trail, which will eventually connect southwest to north east Ohio.
“So there would be recreational trails and then maybe the bike hub,” said Dzuranin.

Now she, along with students, park enthusiasts, and city officials are envisioning its ripple effect. They plan to capitalize on yet another catalyst for the west side's growth. The group said green space and trails can increase home value, attract home buyers and boost people’s health.

http://www.10tv.com/content/stories/2012/12/05/columbus-westside-facelift-parks-paths.html