SOUTH BLOOMFIELD, Ohio — South Bloomfield Mayor Aaron Thomas is asking residents to stay engaged as the village prepares for significant growth, providing updates on several major projects that could shape the community’s future during his July 2026 monthly report.
In the update, Thomas discussed proposed residential developments, ongoing conversations with OhioHealth, plans for expanded fire protection, traffic concerns, and the continued success of Teays Valley Local Schools.
Proposed Developments Could Double Village Population
One of the mayor’s biggest updates focused on the proposed Crites Farm and Sod Farm developments, which he said have the potential to double South Bloomfield’s population over the next decade.
Thomas said a public town hall meeting is still planned for late August, giving residents an opportunity to learn more about the projects and voice their opinions.
“I understand that some residents welcome growth while others have concerns,” Thomas wrote. “The reality is that South Bloomfield is growing, just like the rest of Central Ohio.”
He added that village leaders are committed to managing that growth responsibly while ensuring residents remain involved throughout the planning process.
OhioHealth Exploring Future Healthcare Opportunities
The mayor also revealed that village officials recently met with representatives from OhioHealth to discuss the future of healthcare services in northern Pickaway County.
Joining Thomas at the meeting were Village Administrator Joe Allen, Village Marshal Michael Maynard, and CFO Alisha Burke.
While emphasizing that no formal announcements have been made, Thomas described the meeting as encouraging, saying OhioHealth recognizes the area’s rapid residential and commercial growth and the increasing need for healthcare services closer to home.
Discussions included projected population increases, major employers along the U.S. 23 corridor, future housing developments, and long-term healthcare needs.
Fire Station Discussions Continue
Thomas also updated residents on plans for a proposed Safety Services Building, saying discussions continue despite the village not receiving state capital funding this year.
Village officials recently met with Harrison Township Fire Chief Shawn Davidson and Assistant Chief Colt Cline to discuss future emergency service needs.
According to Thomas, everyone involved agrees the South Bloomfield area needs a satellite fire station to better serve the growing community.
Officials are now determining whether the project will move forward as a joint effort between the village and Harrison Township or if the township will pursue a separate facility farther north.
The issue is expected to be discussed by the Harrison Township Trustees during their final meeting in July.
Growth Brings Traffic Challenges
Traffic remains one of the most common concerns raised by residents, according to Thomas.
While acknowledging that new housing contributes to congestion, he noted that increasing traffic along U.S. Route 23 is also driven by regional growth, commercial trucking, and commuters traveling to Columbus from communities farther south.
Thomas said U.S. 23 has been “overlooked” by the state for many years and noted that major transportation improvements often take years to plan and construct.
Schools Continue to Attract New Residents
Thomas also praised Teays Valley Local Schools, saying the district’s reputation has played a significant role in attracting new families to South Bloomfield.
“The leadership at Teays Valley over the last thirty years has built one of the best school districts in the state,” he wrote.
He added that the district’s success has helped fuel residential growth as families continue seeking communities with strong educational opportunities.
The mayor concluded his monthly message by reaffirming his commitment to keeping residents informed as development discussions continue and major projects move forward.
