Agreement Reached to Relocate Operations from Controversial Columbus Bus Terminal

In a recent development, the City of Columbus, Ohio, has reached an agreement with the owners of the contentious bus terminal located on the west side of the city. This agreement aims to address the numerous concerns raised by residents regarding the Wilson Road Greyhound/Barons Bus terminal, which has been a focal point of safety, security, and sanitation issues since its opening nearly a year ago.

Background: Challenges Faced by the Wilson Road Terminal

The Wilson Road Greyhound/Barons Bus terminal has been the subject of extensive coverage by NEWS.ORG 6/FOX 28 due to recurring incidents that have raised alarm among residents and officials alike. These incidents include a fatal shooting in October and an assault on a security officer in January, where the officer’s ear was partially bitten off.

Terms of the Agreement

As per the agreement announced by the city attorney’s office, several key measures will be implemented to mitigate the concerns surrounding the terminal:

Relocation of Operations

• Most operations at the terminal will be relocated to alternative sites.
• The property will now only be utilized for ticket sales and bus transfers.

New Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations

• Pick-ups and drop-offs will be shifted to John Glenn International Airport, Ohio State University, and a third location that is yet to be determined.

Timelines and Plans

• The terminal has been granted 120 days to complete the relocation of operations.
• Barons Bus, the operator of the terminal, is required to submit an updated site and building plan to the city within 30 days.

Enhanced Security Measures

• For a period of 180 days, the terminal will deploy sufficient security personnel to prevent operations from becoming a public nuisance.
• Additional conditions have been outlined in the agreement to address security and sanitation concerns effectively.

Reactions and Statements

Columbus City Attorney Zach Klein expressed satisfaction with the agreement, emphasizing its significance in addressing the safety and security concerns of both passengers and local residents. He highlighted the commitment to finding a long-term solution that relocates operations to a more suitable site.

Next Steps

A status conference between the involved parties is scheduled for early July to monitor the progress and compliance with the terms of the agreement.

Conclusion: A Positive Step Forward for the Community

The agreement between the City of Columbus and the owners of the Wilson Road Greyhound/Barons Bus terminal marks a significant milestone in addressing the challenges posed by the controversial facility. By prioritizing safety and security, the agreement aims to provide relief to the affected residents while paving the way for a more sustainable and conducive environment. As efforts continue to implement the agreed-upon measures, residents and stakeholders remain hopeful for a resolution that ensures the well-being of all parties involved.

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