Columbus Residents Push for Removal of Little Turtle Dumpsite
Residents in the Little Turtle neighborhood are celebrating a major victory after the City of Columbus ordered the removal of a long-disputed dumpsite located near the center of the community.
Community members say the area, once considered an attractive entrance into the neighborhood, has become an eyesore filled with roadway debris, dirt piles, and garbage.
“We care deeply about our community and we don’t want visitors seeing what looks like a dumpsite when they arrive,” said Little Turtle Civic Association Trustee Natalie Struttman.
According to a violation notice issued by Columbus Code Enforcement, Firewater Limited has until May 24 to clear the site. Residents say the property previously served as a greenspace between roadways before changes tied to a road redesign project on Little Turtle Way transformed the area.
“They took a beautiful boulevard that welcomed people into our neighborhood and turned it into an industrial dumping ground,” said Phil Harmon, general counsel for the Little Turtle Civic Association.
The civic association was formed by local residents who opposed the road project over concerns about flooding and environmental impacts. Despite those objections, the project moved forward two years ago, leaving behind torn-up roadway materials and scattered trash.
“Now people refer to it as the Little Turtle Dumpsite Road,” Harmon added.
Residents say the condition of the site has become embarrassing and frustrating for homeowners and visitors alike.
“When people visit our neighborhood for the first time, they immediately ask about the massive dirt pile,” Struttman said.
After months of complaints and requests for action, members of the association filed a lawsuit with the Ohio Supreme Court against Columbus City Attorney Zack Klein, alleging the city failed to take legal steps to clean up the area.
“We are concerned about safety because there are many children living in this neighborhood,” said association trustee Debbie Abbott.
Just six days after the lawsuit was filed, the city officially ordered the cleanup.
“It’s been extremely frustrating for everyone in the neighborhood,” said trustee Deb Abner. “We want this area restored to the way it used to look.”
Residents hope the cleanup marks the beginning of a larger revitalization effort focused on restoring greenspace and improving the community.
“We want trees, walking paths, and green areas for residents to enjoy,” said Little Turtle Civic Association President Darlene Slater.
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