COLUMBUS, Ohio – Columbus City Council is seeking to change the way marathons, half-marathons, 10K’s, 5K’s bicycle races and similar events on city streets are controlled.
President Andrew Ginther will hold a public hearing this afternoon to discuss a proposed ordinance that changes the process of granting permits for races and holds organizers responsible for participants obeying noise ordinances and other regulations.
The measure was prompted by concerns raised by residents of neighborhoods, especially the Short North and Arena District, which serve as part of the courses of the approximately 50 events that occur every year. Merchants and residents have said the events can be disruptive.
The legislation looks to streamline the permitting process, define a race, differentiate it from a parade, coordinate city resources and improve communication with residents who live in the impacted neighborhoods, Ginther said.
The meeting begins at 5:00 p.m. in City Council chambers at City Hall. Speakers can request time until 5:30 p.m.