Full Breakdown
Columbus Moves Forward with NWSL Team Amid Community Concerns
4/23/2026, 9:30:59 PM
Core Event: NWSL Team Expansion and Community Backlash
Columbus is advancing plans to establish a National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) team, with significant developments surrounding the construction of a training facility at McCoy Park. While city officials, including Mayor Andrew Ginther, have been engaged in discussions about this initiative for several years, many local residents and city council members express frustration over a perceived lack of communication and transparency throughout the process.
Timeline of Key Developments
- June 2022: Mayor Ginther and the Haslam ownership group begin discussions about bringing an NWSL team to Columbus.
- Fall 2022: Ginther meets with NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman during her visit to Columbus.
- 2024: The city allocates over $1.6 million for renovations at Gender Road Park and McCoy Park.
- Recent Weeks: Public interest in the NWSL team grows, prompting city council discussions.
- Monday: Columbus City Council approves $25 million for the training facility at McCoy Park, with a 5-3 vote.
Funding and Economic Impact
The funding for the training facility will be sourced from a 2-percent tax on tickets sold at the stadium. Franklin County commissioners have matched the city's $25 million commitment, which includes a requirement for a $12 million private donation from the team owners to support early childhood development programs and combat food insecurity in the county. Mayor Ginther emphasized that McCoy Park was chosen for its strategic location and potential to stimulate economic growth in the South Side.
Community Concerns and Criticism
Despite the potential benefits, many residents feel sidelined. Council President Shannon Hardin criticized the process, stating, "This process bastardized the Columbus way," and highlighted the lack of community involvement. Local resident Hannah Corwin raised concerns about prioritizing a professional soccer team over the needs of local children who could benefit from park facilities. In response to community pushback, the city has committed to forming a working group with neighbors to address their concerns and explore alternative locations for recreational facilities.
Official Statements & Responses
Mayor Ginther acknowledged the shortcomings in communication with the South Side community, stating, "We've learned through the process." He assured that the city would invest in both McCoy Park and any new park identified in partnership with the community. The Columbus Education Association has also voiced opposition, organizing a 'Hands Off McCoy Park' rally to advocate for the park's preservation for local residents.
What's Next
Moving forward, the city is tasked with establishing a working group to engage with community members and develop a plan for the new recreational site. Groundbreaking for this alternative location is mandated to commence by the end of the year, ensuring that community interests are prioritized alongside the NWSL team's development.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This was a once-in-a-generation opportunity,” — Mayor Andrew Ginther
- “This process bastardized the Columbus way,” — Council President Shannon Hardin
- “The girls and women of this city saw yesterday this community step up in a way that it never had before,” — Mayor Andrew Ginther
- “The Columbus Education Association is among the groups speaking out against the plans, planning a 'Hands Off McCoy Park' rally for Friday, May 1st, arguing McCoy Park is one of the few parks on the southside, and it should be for neighbors, not team ownership.” — Columbus Education Association Representative
