The relocation of Cannon Drive is a project developed by the Ohio State University that aims to straighten and elevate Canon Drive to support future growth by creating 12 acres of developable land and serve as future flood protection for the surrounding area. Phase I occurred south of Herrick Bridge to King Avenue and increased the safety of the hospital area from 500 year elevation floods. Phase II is proposed to occur from Herrick Rd north to Lane Avenue. Further potential for future phases have been assessed all the way to Dodridge Rd. in order to increase entry and departure from campus.

This StoryMap is part of Ohio State’s School of Environment and Natural Resources Spring 2021 Senior Capstone project. The project was undertaken in collaboration with FLOW (Friends of the Lower Olentangy Watershed) to inform the organization and the public on various aspects of the Cannon Drive Relocation project. In the following StoryMap, we will discuss how the soil, river, and aquatic organisms that currently reside in the area will be impacted by the proposed construction plans and how to best mitigate negative impacts. We also analyze the potential for this site to facilitate recreation and educational opportunities to students and citizens alike.