The Franklinton Development Association (FDA) and the Columbus Idea Foundry (CIF) have jointly received a $350,000 grant from ArtPlace America to assist with the relocation of the creative space to a warehouse located at 421 West State Street in the East Franklinton neighborhood. The grant will allow the FDA to renovate the existing two-story 60,000 square foot building, helping the CIF to expand their mission of empowering creatives and innovators in Central Ohio.

“The Franklinton warehouse is a perfect fit for us,” said Alex Bandar, founder of the Columbus Idea Foundry. “We’ll relocate all of the industrial components of our shop and still have space for attractive offices and studios. With partners like COSI, 400 West Rich, and the FDA, we’ll help blend neighborhood revitalization, education, technology, creativity and enterprise into something of national importance.”

This Franklinton project was just one of 54 from over 1,200 applications across the US to receive funding. This is the third round of funding from ArtPlace America, which has invested over $42 million into the effort of accelerating creative placemaking.

“ArtPlace America recognizes the central role arts and cultural activities can have in the revitalization of American cities,” said Rip Rapson, chair of ArtPlace America’s Presidents’ Council. “With this grant award, ArtPlace America is directing individual project support to scores of creative, high-impact projects throughout the country.”

The FDA purchased the warehouse at 421 West State Street in 2011 with the help of a grant from the City of Columbus. The building also received a $200,000 grant in 2012 for brownfield cleanup.

“We’re very excited to be partnering with the Columbus Idea Foundry to bring them to our building,” says FDA Executive Director Jim Sweeney. “Alex’s vision is a perfect fit for what we’re trying to build in the neighborhood.”

The timeline for construction and relocation has not specifically been determined, but Bandar says that they hope to be moved in before the end of the year.

More information can be found online at www.columbusideafoundry.com, www.franklinton.org, and www.artplaceamerica.org.

Photo of Alex Bandar by Adam Slane Photography. Photo of 421 West State Street by Walker Evans.