South Side Parks

In 2019 and again in 2025, the Public Services Committee visited every park on the South Side and made a list of maintenance needs as well as recommended improvements. Since then, the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department (CRPD) has worked to address the issues and make improvements.

2025 South Side Parks Inventory

Upcoming Improvements

Deshler Park

Shelter house is planned for construction in the coming years, with design to begin in 2026. The shelter house is likely to be near the playground, with room for 4 tables underneath.

Fairwood Park

This will include lighting the park drive and the walking loop at the rear of the park. Construction was expected to occur in 2025 however unexpected permitting delays pushed construction to this year (2026).

Karns Park

Replacement and expansion of the playground will occur this year (2026); project was under contract and equipment had already been ordered as of November 2025. A rendering of the planned playground is below.

Lincoln Park

Improvements include the addition of new walking path around the eastern greenspace, lighting around entire walking path, addition of new hard surface futsal/multipurpose court behind community center, and drainage improvements. This project is currently in design, with design expected to be completed around August of 2025, with construction to follow with an expected completion date of Fall 2026.

Recently Completed Improvements

Millbrook Park

Renovations of the park including new playground, basketball court, benches, etc, is complete.

Smith Road Park

New playground equipment, fencing, and benches have been installed.

Southeast Lions Park

Lighting has been installed at the park.

Street Trees

The South Side’s tree canopy is estimated at 18%, below the Citywide average of 22% and well below the City’s goal of 40%. Investment in the South Side’s tree canopy, especially with the installation of street trees, is a priority.

Urban Forestry Master Plan

The Urban Forestry Master Plan (UFMP) is a strategic and long-term investment in Columbus’ tree canopy. The South Side has been identified as a priority neighborhood for investment.

South Side street tree inventory PDF file Urban Forestry Master Plan website