APC approves TIP amendment T26-7 to shift project funds, delaying right‑of‑way purchases until 2029

The Area Plan Commission voted to approve resolution T26-7, an amendment to the FY2026–2030 Transportation Improvement Program, after staff described a funding trade that kept a significant county project on track.

APC staff explained the county has two related projects around 600 North and 50 West; portions originally planned under a rural funding application (which would have added trails to the urban project) were at risk because two recent rural applications were not approved. Moving those trail pieces into the urban project would have pushed back environmental review and delayed right‑of‑way purchases, jeopardizing federally allocated right‑of‑way funds.

Staff said the Columbus Metropolitan Planning Organization offered a trade for 2027 funds that the county will repay in 2029. That trade allowed APC to move right‑of‑way funds into the construction phase and maintain project momentum; staff described the arrangement as aligning funds so construction could be programmed for 2029.

The board voted by roll call; members present (Mike Gibson, Larry Leance, Cindy Murray, Jackson Boen, David Buyers, Aaron Easter) voted to approve resolution T26-7.

Why it matters: The amendment preserves federal funding eligibility and sequencing for a sizable county corridor project near 600 North and 50 West, and delays property purchasing until the adjusted environmental schedule and funding plan align.

What’s next: APC staff will finalize the TIP amendment language and continue coordination with the Columbus MPO and county highway officials as right‑of‑way and environmental steps proceed.