Ideally located along Interstate 70, London offers a small-town lifestyle within easy reach of metropolitan amenities—just 20 minutes from Hilliard and 30 from downtown Columbus. That accessibility, combined with a surge in residential and commercial investment, has put the city on a clear upward trajectory.“We’re still London,” Closser emphasizes.“We have that small-town feel, but now with more options—more retail, more restaurants, and more things to do.” RETAIL MOMENTUM: FROM ALDI TO STARBUCKS AND BEYOND London’s recent retail growth tells the story of a community on the rise. The much-anticipated Aldi supermarket opened in early November. “When a company like Aldi comes in, it’s a signal,” says Closser. “It tells other national brands that London is a city on the move.” That signal worked quickly. Starbucks has already begun building, Scooter’s Coffee has started demolishing their site in London, and Walmart— eager to capitalize on the momentum- remodeled to include a Dunkin’ Donuts café inside. “It’s a new concept for them,” the Mayor notes. “Walmart’s following the same trend as Target with Starbucks— it creates a full experience for shoppers.” The city’s retail energy is also fueling downtown revitalization, where investment and community creativity are transforming London’s historic core. DOWNTOWN RENAISSANCE: WEST 40 SOCIAL AND A DESIGNATED OUTDOOR DISTRICT Led by The Westwood Collective, a Hilliard development group, London’s downtown has undergone a visible transformation. “They’ve been buying and renovating historic buildings the right way—thoughtfully and professionally,” Closser says. “And it’s paying off. Foot traffic is up, and other property owners are following suit.” Among Westwood’s centerpiece projects is West 40 Social, an outdoor gathering space featuring a bar, restaurant, yard games, and live entertainment, with space for food trucks and private events.“It’s exactly the kind of social hub downtown needed,” the Mayor says. To complement that momentum, the city has launched a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA)—an outdoor area where visitors can enjoy adult beverages from participating restaurants while browsing shops or listening to live music.“It’s about creating a destination experience,” Closser explains. “People come downtown, they walk, they mingle, they stay.” COMMUNITY PRIDE IN ACTION London’s revitalization has been as much grassroots 95 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 12 LONDON, OH
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