Columbus, OH — January 30, 2026 — Local News Update

Columbus Airports Achieve Record Passenger Numbers

In 2025, Columbus airports set a new annual passenger record, serving nearly 9.4 million travelers. This growth is attributed to the addition of more flights, meeting increasing travel demand. The Columbus Regional Airport Authority’s proactive strategy of demonstrating demand to airlines has been effective in guiding new flight routes. Looking ahead, the planned new terminal at John Glenn International Airport is on schedule for a 2029 opening, which is expected to further expand capacity and support continued growth in passenger numbers.

Columbus Conducts Annual Homeless Count

Over 300 volunteers participated in Columbus’s annual point-in-time homeless count, organized by the Community Shelter Board. This federally required effort takes place during winter when unsheltered individuals are more stationary and vulnerable. Volunteers searched encampments across the city to collect data on the growing homeless population, which last year reached a record 2,556 people—a 26% increase since 2020. The count underscores a rising local and national trend, particularly impacting communities of color. This initiative helps secure funding and guide services. However, it also reveals a strained support system, with shelters overwhelmed and public concerns mounting about encampments. Critics argue that sweeps of homeless camps don’t address root causes, though city officials claim they are preceded by outreach efforts. In 2025, Columbus removed 22 camps, with eight considered active. Efforts to address homelessness include increased city funding, voter-backed affordable housing bonds, and strategies like winter warming centers. Citizens can help by donating to local nonprofits, volunteering, and staying informed through advocacy tools and support resources. One poignant reminder of the community spirit in these encampments came from a sign spotted in the woods: “All we have is each other.”

Columbus Safety Collective Files Signatures for Public Safety Amendment

The Columbus Safety Collective Campaign delivered nearly 30,000 signatures for The Community Crisis Response Amendment to appear on the City of Columbus’ May 2026 primary election ballot. The campaign was required to submit 12,533 valid signatures of registered voters in the City of Columbus between January 12, 2026 and March 2, 2026 to qualify for the May 2026 primary election ballot. With the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and dozens of coalition partners, the campaign collected more than double the number of required signatures to place a citizen-initiated charter amendment on the ballot in Columbus. The Community Crisis Response Amendment will establish a fully-funded alternative Community Crisis Response Division within the Department of Health to complement existing city response programs and better meet the needs of community members experiencing behavioral and mental health crises. The proposal ensures that trained social workers, behavioral health professionals, peer supporters, and EMTs will provide on-site screening, assess the situation, stabilize if necessary, and above all, de-escalate situations to reduce violence and save lives. The city clerk will transmit the signatures to the Franklin County Board of Elections and City Attorney to review for validation and legal sufficiency. Once the total number of valid signatures is deemed sufficient by the City Clerk, the item will be referred to City Council to place the amendment on the May 2026 ballot. Formed in 2020, the Columbus Safety Collective is an advocacy collective of organizations and community members dedicated to creating a safer and more just Columbus for all residents. The campaign is founded by ACLU of Ohio, Ohio Families Unite for Political Action and Change, Ohio Organizing Collaborative, and Ohio Voice, and is endorsed by a broad coalition of organizations, including Indivisible Central Ohio, Ohio Citizen Action, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Ohio, Ohioans Against Extremism, Black Men Build, Law Enforcement Action Partnership, National Association of Social Workers – Ohio Chapter, Ohio Women’s Alliance, OPAWL – Building AAPI Feminist Leadership, Working Families Party, and more.

Recent Traffic Incidents in Columbus

Several traffic incidents occurred in Columbus on January 28, 2026. At the intersection of Greenlawn Ave and Kirby Ave, a vehicle collision resulted in injuries, leading to temporary traffic disruptions as emergency crews cleared debris and worked to remove the involved vehicles. Another accident occurred on the westbound side of US-33 near the I-270 S interchange, causing lane closures and traffic delays during the cleanup and investigation process. Additionally, a collision with injuries was reported at the intersection of Parsons Ave and E Alcott Rd, impacting traffic as responders worked to clear the vehicles and ensure the area was safe for other motorists. Details regarding the number and severity of injuries in these incidents remain limited.

Upcoming Events in Columbus

Looking ahead, the Columbus Museum of Art’s signature fundraiser, Wonderball 2026, is scheduled for January 31, 2026, at 8 p.m. The event promises art, fashion, music, and late-night energy. Additionally, the All-Night Horror Movie Marathon V: Welcome To The Neighborhood is set for January 31, 2026, at Studio 35 Cinema & Drafthouse, offering horror fans an overnight marathon of terrifying films with a neighborhood-themed twist. These events provide opportunities for community engagement and entertainment in the coming days.

Sources

• Columbus airports set new passenger record in 2025
• A firsthand look at Columbus’ 2026 homeless count
• Columbus Safety Collective Files Nearly 30,000 Signatures in Campaign to Improve Public Safety and Prioritize Community Care
• Columbus, OH – Collision With Injuries at Greenlawn Ave and Kirby Ave
• Columbus, OH – Injury Accident on US-33 W at I-270 S Interchange
• The Best Things To Do This January In Columbus