Neighborhoods evolve, sometimes intentionally, yet often by accident.
Columbus was originally selected as the state’s capital based on its central geography after oscillating between Chillicothe and Zanesville for more than a decade. But there was an even earlier settlement on the other side of the Scioto River that is now redefining urban spaces and the allure of living downtown.
Franklinton is more than an emerging community with an art and culture scene that echoes the origins of the city’s Short North. Steeped in history and legacy, recent development is bringing new residents and businesses to the peninsula, and attracting regional and national attention.
“Columbus stood out to us because of its strong economic growth, diverse employer base, and steady population influx, all of which create a compelling long-term foundation for multifamily housing,” says Catie Meighan with Normandy RE, a real estate investment firm with assets across the Midwest. “What really drew us to Franklinton was the neighborhood’s energy and authenticity.”
With a hands-on approach to both investing and operations, Normandy closes the gap between thoughtful ownership and local management. That mindset is evident at Horizon West, formerly part of Gravity 2.0 and purchased in April 2025 by Normandy. The residential sequel to the original Gravity project on the north side of W. Broad Street began construction in early 2020 and welcomed tenants in the summer of 2023. It includes 382 multifamily units and 25,000 SF of retail space.
As part of the original Gravity 2.0 project, CFCFA provided conduit bond financing and commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing through the Central Ohio Regional Bond Fund (CORBF). The Finance Authority also owns the public parking garage, an asset that remains essential for residential, retail, and office spaces adjacent to Horizon West, as well as further development in the surrounding area. When Normandy purchased the property, one parcel had PACE special assessments for the repayment of the PACE loan. Normandy accepted assignment of the special assessments to continue to pay off the PACE loan for the energy efficiency improvements. The conduit bonds transactions were terminated.
A New Chapter
“Neighborhood in transition” is frequently a euphemism for uncertainty. Add a pandemic that encouraged working from home and cautionary social distancing and suddenly living closer to downtown didn’t necessarily offer the same perks and appeal.
However, that’s the kind of challenge that intrigues companies like Normandy.
“It has been incredibly rewarding to watch both the property and the neighborhood continue to come to life over the past year,” says Meighan. Normandy has already increased occupancy while continuing to improve the resident experience throughout the building. “More than anything, it’s been exciting to see the sense of community forming, especially as the neighborhood becomes more active during the warmer months, with events like Franklinton Fridays and all the activity happening nearby.”
Reimagining the original concept and rebranding it as Horizon West quickly set the project apart, combining convenience with a critical mass of everyday destinations all within a short walk.
“Visitors are often surprised by the scale and design of the shared spaces throughout the property,” says Meighan. Horizon West was intentionally designed with gathering spaces that encourage interaction, whether that is social events, remote work, fitness, or simply getting to know neighbors. “Many people are impressed by how walkable and active Franklinton has become, with art, food, entertainment all concentrated within a few blocks.” Normandy offers apartments for a wide array of individuals, including expansive four and five bedroom units, Horizon West attracts those who value a connected lifestyle, with fitness centers, bike storage, and easy access to nearby trails and the bustle of downtown.
Art – And Much More
Franklinton’s more recent reputation as an enclave of artists isn’t inaccurate, but sometimes oversimplified. It’s a rich cultural cross-section, including diverse residents, eclectic businesses, and bold investments, that likewise evolves.
“This is a neighborhood that existed long before many of the current artists, residents, workers, or business owners—we’re all guests here,” says Travis Hoewischer, executive director of Franklinton Arts District. “We all feel a sense of responsibility to create a welcoming neighborhood for people we don’t yet know—to help maintain a community that can serve future guests.”
There’s a certain grit here, for lack of a better term,” Hoewischer adds. “Things are forged in Franklinton. The factories that used to produce drinking fountains, elevators, Harleys…now create 3D-printed sculptures, paintings, comedians, and photographers. There’s still so much potential and momentum here.“
Franklinton Arts District is the organizing force behind the energy that attracts creatives from across Central Ohio and beyond. They’re also a conduit connecting the neighborhood’s past to its future.
“Those who have found opportunity and community in the district have also made Franklinton their home, and we’ve seen firsthand how artists and the arts have served that. Our new mission is to empower the creative community and build an enduring foundation of opportunities that contribute to the arts ecosystem in the district,” says Hoewischer. “There’s a lot of housing and development going on, which we see as a potential source of new community partners, new volunteers, new patrons of the arts, and new artists themselves.” One hundred and fifty plus artists in one square mile make it as much a workforce development hub as a cultural district. “Art is work, studios are workplaces, and workplace infrastructure is vital for civic investment.”
Through Horizon West, and additional investments in Franklinton, Normandy is eager to play a vital role in the neighborhood’s future as a connected community at the heart of Columbus.
“Residents of Horizon West are truly in the middle of everything happening in Franklinton, from local art events and neighborhood markets to Land-Grant Brewing Company’s atmosphere, outdoor entertainment, and pickleball tournaments regularly bringing people together right outside the building,” Meighan said. Normandy sees Columbus continuing to establish itself as one of the leading cities in the Midwest, driven by strong job growth, infrastructure investment, and an expanding technology presence. “Projects like the LinkUS transit corridor will make the neighborhood even more connected and accessible, while hopefully preserving the creativity and community feel that make the area so unique today.”
