LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — A group of Columbus Grove High School freshmen got an exclusive look inside several downtown Lima buildings—spaces rarely seen by the public—as part of an educational initiative aimed at fostering creative economic development.
The students, participating in a unique economics class project now in its seventh year, were challenged to evaluate available spaces in downtown properties and pitch innovative redevelopment ideas. Modeled after the approach taken by business owners and municipalities, the students develop detailed proposals and presentations to showcase their visions.
“We're going to make, actually, a 3D model, and then interior design,” said Brody McClure, a Columbus Grove freshman. “There's two separate groups, and then we're going to pitch different ideas and make a presentation and send it to John and all the guys.”
The class received insight from local leaders, including Lima businessman John Heaphy and Shane Coleman, Lima’s chief of staff. The Allen Economic Development Group also partners with the school on the project, giving students real-world feedback and support. Andy Schafer, a business teacher at Columbus Grove, said the project leaves a lasting impression on students—sometimes even years later.
“The coolest thing is talking to my seniors, and they say, ‘Oh yeah, you’re doing that project again. Have you seen Lima? Have you seen how it's changed? Have you seen some of our ideas actually come to life?’” Schafer said.
Community leaders expressed excitement over the potential of the students’ concepts, eager to see how young minds envision a revitalized downtown.
