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Mapping Columbus's Street Grid: Columbus, Ohio, is defined by its meticulously planned street grid, a testament to its urban design heritage. The city's layout, originating from its downtown core and radiating outwards, follows a distinct pattern of intersecting streets and avenues.
Broad and High Streets: Serving as the city's backbone, Broad and High Streets have been vital arteries since Columbus's inception. High Street, stretching 13.5 miles (21.7 km) and Broad Street, extending 25.1 miles (40.4 km) across the county, form the primary axes of navigation.
Grid Pattern: Columbus's street plan adheres to a grid pattern, with High Street running north to south and Broad Street running east to west, intersecting at the city's center. The grid extends into surrounding neighborhoods, facilitating easy navigation and accessibility.
Orientation and Numbering: Streets in Columbus are numbered and oriented based on cardinal directions. North-south streets align slightly west of true north, parallel to High Street, while avenues run slightly east of true east. Numbered avenues commence with First Avenue approximately 1.25 miles north of Broad Street, incrementing as one travels northward. Numbered streets initiate with Second Street, progressing eastward from High Street. Even-numbered addresses typically align with the north and east sides of streets, with odd numbers on the south and west sides.
Key Local Roads: Beyond Broad and High Streets, Columbus boasts a network of major local roads vital for connectivity and mobility. Main Street, Morse Road, Dublin-Granville Road (SR-161), Cleveland Avenue/Westerville Road (SR-3), Olentangy River Road, Riverside Drive, Sunbury Road, Fifth Avenue, and Livingston Avenue are among the prominent thoroughfares shaping the city's landscape.
Navigating Columbus's Landscape: Understanding Columbus's street grid is essential for residents and visitors alike, facilitating efficient travel and navigation throughout the city's diverse neighborhoods and commercial districts. As Columbus continues to evolve, its historic street system remains a foundational element, guiding the city's growth and development.