Columbus City Council unanimously approved the city’s largest-ever annual budget Monday evening, allocating $2.1 billion for the 2026 fiscal year. The budget includes significant investments in infrastructure, public safety, and affordable housing initiatives across Franklin County.

Council President Shannon Hardin called the budget “a bold step forward for our growing city,” noting that Columbus has added nearly 100,000 residents over the past decade. Key allocations include $340 million for road and bridge repairs, $180 million for police and fire services, and $95 million for affordable housing development.

The budget also earmarks $45 million for a new community recreation center on the city’s east side and $28 million for expanding the COTA bus rapid transit system along Cleveland Avenue.