COLUMBUS, Ohio — A notorious chapter for East Columbus housing is officially coming to a close today. City leaders and community members are gathering to commemorate the start of the demolition of the vacant Latitude Five25 towers—originally known as Sawyer Towers—clearing the path for a massive $150 million affordable housing redevelopment.
The commemoration ceremony is taking place today, Thursday, May 21, at the 525 Sawyer Boulevard site. Following remarks from city and county officials, a crane will symbolically remove the top of one of the 15-story structures, marking the formal beginning of the demolition process.
From Holiday Disaster to New Beginnings
The twin towers have stood as a vacant eyesore on the city’s Near East Side since a catastrophic incident during the Christmas holiday in 2022. Freezing temperatures caused pipes to burst, triggering severe flooding that forced an emergency evacuation of all residents. The buildings were subsequently condemned and have remained empty ever since.
The turning point for the property came last November when Nuveen, a prominent real-estate investment firm, acquired the site for $7 million. Following a demolition permit application filed with the city on Jan. 22, Nuveen, in partnership with Paths Development, announced plans to completely transform the footprint.
The blighted towers will be replaced by a modern, 380-unit apartment complex dedicated to low-income families, breathing new life into the neighborhood.
Today’s Commemoration Event Details
Local dignitaries are speaking at the event to highlight what this redevelopment means for the future of affordable housing in Columbus.
- Key Speakers: Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther, Franklin County Commissioner Erica C. Crawley, Columbus City Council Member Tiara Ross, Near East Area Commission Chair Dr. Nathan Harris, and representatives from Paths Development.
- Timeline: Media and guests arrived at 10:45 a.m., with the official program kicking off at 11:00 a.m.
Site Safety Note: Due to active demolition conditions, organizers noted that the site gates closed strictly at 11:00 a.m. with no late entry permitted. The program is expected to conclude around 12:00 p.m., with early departures highly restricted for safety reasons.
The ceremonial high-impact demolition is contingent on weather, as high winds or rain will postpone the crane operations. Officials say today’s event represents more than just tearing down concrete; it marks a vital step forward in restoring dignity and affordable living options to the community.
