COVID-19 pandemic in Columbus, Ohio

{{for|effects of the pandemic in the state|COVID-19 pandemic in Ohio}}

{{Infobox pandemic

| name = COVID-19 pandemic in Columbus, Ohio

| map1 =

| legend1 =

| map2 =

| legend2 =

| map3 =

| legend3 =

| map4 =

| legend4 =

| map5 =

| legend5 =

| disease = COVID-19

| virus_strain = SARS-CoV-2

| location = Columbus, Ohio

| first_case = March 14, 2020

| arrival_date = February 27, 2020{{cite web|title=City of Columbus and Franklin County Jurisdictions: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Summary of Cases|publisher=City of Columbus|url=https://www.columbus.gov/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=2147514893|date=April 10, 2020|access-date=April 18, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201810/https://www.columbus.gov/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=2147514893|url-status=live}}

| date =

| origin =

| confirmed_cases = 69,244 city-wide (March 11, 2021){{cite web|title=City of Columbus and Franklin County Jurisdictions: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Summary of Cases|publisher=City of Columbus|url=https://public.tableau.com/views/COVID-19OutbreakSummary_15918845768300/COVID19Summaryp1?:display_count=y&:origin=viz_share_link&:showVizHome=no|date=March 11, 2021|access-date=March 12, 2021}}

| hospitalized_cases = 2,768 city-wide (March 11, 2021)

| active_cases =

| suspected_cases = 11,483 city-wide (March 11, 2021)

| severe_cases =

| recovery_cases =

| deaths = 987 city-wide (March 11, 2021)

| territories =

| website = {{url|https://www.columbus.gov/coronavirus/}}
{{url|https://www.columbus.gov/covid19resources/}}

}}

The COVID-19 pandemic is an ongoing viral pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a novel infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The pandemic affected the city of Columbus, Ohio, as Ohio's stay-at-home order shuttered all nonessential businesses, and caused event cancellations into 2021. The shutdown led to protests at the Ohio Statehouse, the state capitol building.

The COVID-19 pandemic muted activity in Columbus, especially in its downtown core, from 2020 to 2022. By late 2022, foot traffic in Downtown Columbus began to exceed pre-pandemic rates; one of the quickest downtown areas to recover in the United States.{{cite news|title=Which American downtowns are thriving — and which are struggling|work=Axios|url=https://www.axios.com/2023/05/04/downtown-recovery|date=May 4, 2023|access-date=May 22, 2023}}

History

=Background=

{{Main|COVID-19 pandemic|COVID-19|Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2}}

{{See also|COVID-19 pandemic in the United States|COVID-19 pandemic in Ohio}}

On March 9, Governor Mike DeWine reported Ohio's first 3 cases in Cuyahoga County, in northeast Ohio.{{cite news|url=https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/coronavirus-in-ohio-gov-dewine-announces-3-positive-cases/ar-BB10XdTF/|title=3 cases of coronavirus confirmed in Cuyahoga County; DeWine declares state of emergency|date=9 March 2020|access-date=9 March 2020|archive-date=March 28, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328211817/https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/coronavirus-in-ohio-gov-dewine-announces-3-positive-cases/ar-BB10XdTF/|url-status=live}} Ohio restaurants and bars shuttered March 15, by 9 p.m., less than six hours before closures set to take place. first state.{{cite web |author=Randy Ludlow |url=https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200315/coronavirus-governor-orders-ohio-bars-restaurants-to-shut-down |title=Coronavirus: Governor orders Ohio bars, restaurants to shut down |work=The Columbus Dispatch |date=Mar 23, 2020 |access-date=2020-04-05 |archive-date=March 26, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200326024436/https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200315/coronavirus-governor-orders-ohio-bars-restaurants-to-shut-down |url-status=live }} On March 18, DeWine ordered nail and hair salons, barbershops, and tattoo parlors closed. He also closed all but five Bureau of Motor Vehicles offices.{{Cite web|url=https://www.news5cleveland.com/news/continuing-coverage/coronavirus/gov-dewine-orders-closure-of-all-barbershops-nail-salons-tattoo-parlors-and-all-but-5-ohio-bmvs|title=Gov. DeWine orders closure of all barbershops, nail salons, tattoo parlors, and all but 5 Ohio BMVs|date=March 18, 2020|website=WEWS|access-date=April 7, 2020|archive-date=March 28, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328221446/https://www.news5cleveland.com/news/continuing-coverage/coronavirus/gov-dewine-orders-closure-of-all-barbershops-nail-salons-tattoo-parlors-and-all-but-5-ohio-bmvs|url-status=live}} On March 20, record-level rains led to flash flooding in Central Ohio.{{cite web |last=Rodriguez |first=Eddy |url=https://www.newsweek.com/flash-flooding-sweeps-through-columbus-central-ohio-1493507 |title=Flash Flooding Sweeps Through Central Ohio |work=Newsweek |date=2020-03-20 |access-date=2020-04-05 |archive-date=April 6, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200406210715/https://www.newsweek.com/flash-flooding-sweeps-through-columbus-central-ohio-1493507 |url-status=live }} 61 people from Franklin and Licking County were placed in hotels due to house flood damage. The Red Cross stated it would normally open a shelter, but wouldn't due to the coronavirus threat.{{cite web |author=Mark Ferenchik |url=https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200323/flood-damage-assessed-from-torrential-rains-in-central-ohio |title=Flood damage assessed from torrential rains in central Ohio |work=The Columbus Dispatch |access-date=2020-04-05 |archive-date=March 31, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200331063323/https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200323/flood-damage-assessed-from-torrential-rains-in-central-ohio |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=https://myfox28columbus.com/news/local/flooding-adds-insult-to-injury-for-central-ohioans-dealing-with-coronavirus |title=Flooding adds insult to injury for Central Ohioans dealing with coronavirus | WTTE |publisher=Myfox28columbus.com |date=March 20, 2020 |access-date=2020-04-05 |archive-date=March 28, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328232357/https://myfox28columbus.com/news/local/flooding-adds-insult-to-injury-for-central-ohioans-dealing-with-coronavirus |url-status=live }}

=Timeline=

File:Columbus, OH - COVID 02.jpg]]

Events:{{Cite web|url=https://www.columbusunderground.com/coronavirus-covid-19-updates-in-columbus-sp1|title=Coronavirus / COVID-19 Updates in Columbus|date=March 24, 2020|access-date=April 7, 2020|archive-date=April 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200420194049/https://www.columbusunderground.com/coronavirus-covid-19-updates-in-columbus-sp1|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.columbus.gov/coronavirus/|title=Coronavirus Outbreak 2019|website=www.columbus.gov|access-date=2020-04-05|archive-date=April 21, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200421094409/https://www.columbus.gov/coronavirus/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200404/columbus-area-parks-officials-monitoring-use-as-ohio-closes-hocking-hills-state-park-over-coronavirus|title=Columbus area parks officials monitoring use as Ohio closes Hocking Hills State Park over coronavirus|last=Narciso|first=Dean|website=The Columbus Dispatch|language=en|access-date=2020-04-05|archive-date=April 9, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200409135047/https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200404/columbus-area-parks-officials-monitoring-use-as-ohio-closes-hocking-hills-state-park-over-coronavirus|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://columbusregion.com/covid-19-preparing-for-the-future/|title=COVID-19: Preparing for the Future|website=One Columbus|language=en-US|access-date=2020-04-05|archive-date=April 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200425022802/https://columbusregion.com/covid-19-preparing-for-the-future/|url-status=live}}

;2020

March 2: Columbus Public Health, the city's health department, issues tips to the public regarding coronavirus
March 10: Ohio reports first cases, state of emergency declared in Ohio
March 12: first cases of community spread in Ohio; DeWine orders limiting gatherings to fewer than 100 individuals
March 13: the Columbus Board of Health declares a local public health emergency
March 14: Columbus reports its first case of coronavirus
March 16: DeWine limits gatherings to no more than 50 people; most county municipal court hearings are postponed; visitors prohibited from jails and correctional facilities
March 17: second case of coronavirus reported in Columbus, suggesting community spread
March 18: Mayor Andrew Ginther declares a local state of emergency; Columbus alters parking rules; Department of Building and Zoning Services closes its public office and cancels upcoming meetings; Area Commissions cancels two months of meetings
March 20: first coronavirus-related death in Ohio; street sweeping delayed in Columbus
March 22: DeWine gives a stay-at-home order for Ohio
March 23: first coronavirus-related deaths in Franklin County
March 24: DeWine outlines what is considered "essential businesses and industries" during the "Stay at home" order he conducted
March 31: New homeless shelters have been opened for men, woman and families who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or is showing symptoms of the virus
April 2: DeWine has extended the stay at home order through May 1
April 3: The Columbus-area Hocking Hills State Park has been closed due to COVID-19
April 5: 416 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported in Columbus and Worthington
April 9: During a coronavirus briefing at the Ohio Statehouse, about 50 people protested Governor DeWine and Amy Acton, director of the Ohio Department of Health, in opposition to the stay-at-home order.{{Cite web|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/protesters-gather-outside-of-statehouse-saying-they-want-to-go-back-to-work|title=Protesters gather outside of statehouse saying they want to go back to work|first=Jessi|last=Starkey|date=April 9, 2020|website=WSYX|access-date=April 13, 2020|archive-date=April 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200425144827/https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/protesters-gather-outside-of-statehouse-saying-they-want-to-go-back-to-work|url-status=live}}
April 10: Columbus Public Health begins weekly reports into Columbus and Worthington coronavirus cases.
April 13: Protests were held again outside the Statehouse, with signs reading "Stop the tyranny," "Survival is not living," and "Quarantine worse than virus", among statements against DeWine and Acton.{{Cite web|url=https://fox8.com/news/coronavirus/protesters-back-at-ohio-statehouse-during-coronavirus-news-conference/|title=Protesters back at Ohio Statehouse during coronavirus news conference|date=April 13, 2020|access-date=April 13, 2020|archive-date=April 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200420044315/https://fox8.com/news/coronavirus/protesters-back-at-ohio-statehouse-during-coronavirus-news-conference/|url-status=live}}
April 15: The City of Columbus announces plans to crack down on mass gatherings.
April 16: DeWine announces plans to gradually reopen businesses on May 1.
May 15: Columbus and all of Ohio's hair salons, barbershops, and nail salons reopen, along with restaurant and bar outdoor dining spaces. Restaurants and bars can reopen their indoor dining rooms beginning on May 21.{{cite news|url=https://www.columbusunderground.com/reopening-plan-for-hair-salons-restaurants-announced-tm1|title=Coronavirus Update: Reopening Plan for Hair Salons, Restaurants Announced|work=Columbus Underground|date=May 7, 2020|access-date=May 16, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201718/https://www.columbusunderground.com/reopening-plan-for-hair-salons-restaurants-announced-tm1|url-status=live}}
July 2: Mayor Ginther orders the use of face masks in public in Columbus.{{cite news|url=https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200702/columbus-mayor-ginther-orders-masks-in-public|title=Columbus Mayor Ginther orders masks in public|work=The Columbus Dispatch|first=Bill|last=Bush|date=July 2, 2020|access-date=July 2, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201825/https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/coronavirus/2020/07/02/columbus-mayor-ginther-orders-masks-in-public/42084307/|url-status=live}}
September 1: A vaccine, developed by the University of Oxford and pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca, was going into clinical trials for 30,000 participants worldwide, with 500 participants at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center location.{{Cite web|date=2020-09-01|title=Ohio State Wexner Medical Center to Start Clinical Trial of COVID-19 Vaccine|url=https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/mediaroom/pressreleaselisting/covid-vaccine-trial|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201748/https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/mediaroom/pressreleaselisting/covid-vaccine-trial|archive-date=November 16, 2020|access-date=2020-09-11|website=wexnermedical.osu.edu|language=en}}
September 9: The trials at Ohio State for a potential COVID-19 vaccine were put on hold after a UK participant developed an unexplained illness.{{Cite web|date=2020-09-09|title=COVID-19 vaccine trial halted in Ohio, worldwide for safety review|url=https://www.nbc4i.com/news/covid-19-vaccine-trial-halted-in-ohio-worldwide-for-safety-review/|access-date=2020-09-11|website=NBC4 WCMH-TV|language=en-US|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201721/https://www.nbc4i.com/news/covid-19-vaccine-trial-halted-in-ohio-worldwide-for-safety-review/|url-status=live}}
November 15: Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks begins requiring masks in its parks, following an updated mask mandate in Ohio.{{Cite web|url=https://www.10tv.com/article/news/local/metro-parks-to-require-all-employees-guests-to-wear-masks-starting-monday/530-0cda2399-bbd4-434f-bb96-b9b608294229|title = Metro Parks to require all employees, guests to wear masks starting Monday|date = November 15, 2020}}
November 16: The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, following guidelines issued by the Metro Parks system, begins requiring masks in its outdoor spaces, after previously only requiring them inside its buildings.{{Cite web|url=https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/columbus-zoo-and-aquarium-efforts-mask-mandate/|title = Columbus Zoo and Aquarium efforts mask mandate|date = November 16, 2020}}
November 18: Columbus and Franklin County Public Health announce a stay-at-home advisory. The advisory urges people to only leave home for work or school, or for essential needs like medical care. The advisory is not set to be enforced.{{Cite web|url=https://www.nbc4i.com/community/health/coronavirus/columbus-franklin-county-public-health-issue-stay-home-advisory/|title=Columbus, Franklin County Public Health issue stay home advisory|date=November 18, 2020|website=nbc4i.com}}

;2021

January 13: Researchers at the Ohio State University in Columbus detect two new strains of the coronavirus, including one known as the "Columbus strain", predominant in infection in the city since late December and early January.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2021/01/13/ohio-researchers-say-theyve-identified-two-new-covid-strains-likely-originating-in-the-us.html|title=Ohio researchers say they've identified two new Covid strains likely originating in the U.S.|website=CNBC|date=January 13, 2021}}
March 19: A pop-up mass vaccination site will open at St. John Arena in Columbus. Later in the month, a long-term mass vaccination site will open at the Celeste Center in downtown Columbus, one of sixteen in Ohio.{{Cite web|url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/2021/03/05/ohio-announces-states-first-mass-vaccination-site-cleveland/4593677001/|title = Ohio launches 16 mass COVID-19 vaccination sites across the state}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/2021/03/10/columbus-pop-up-covid-19-mass-vaccination-clinic-details/6940411002/|title = Columbus pop-up COVID-19 mass vaccination clinic scheduled next week at St. John Arena}}
June 7: The Columbus City Council repeals the city's mask ordinance.{{Cite web|url=https://www.nbc4i.com/community/health/coronavirus/columbus-city-council-set-to-vote-on-repeal-of-mask-ordinance/|title=Columbus City Council repeals mask ordinance|website=nbc4i.com|first1=Dan|last1=Pearlman|first2=Karina|last2=Cheung|date=June 7, 2021}}
September 10: Mayor Ginther signs an executive order requiring everyone, regardless of vaccination status, to wear a mask in public indoor spaces.{{Cite web|url=https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/columbus/columbus-mask-order-is-out-here-is-what-it-says/|title=Columbus' mask order is out; here is what it says|date=September 10, 2021|website=nbc4i.com|first=Brian|last=Hofmann}}

=Advisory level timeline=

Franklin County has been rated for COVID-19 severity under Ohio's Public Health Advisory System and the CDC's COVID-19 community transmission map.

;2020

July 2: The Ohio Public Health Advisory System is established. Franklin County is rated "Level 3" or "Red", the second-highest warning level in the advisory system.{{Cite web|url=https://www.news5cleveland.com/news/continuing-coverage/coronavirus/local-coronavirus-news/ohio-creates-color-coded-public-health-alert-system-to-monitor-covid-19-spread-across-each-county|title = Ohio creates color-coded public health alert system to monitor COVID-19 spread across each county|date = July 2, 2020}}
August 27: Franklin County is downgraded to "Level 2" or "Orange", the second-lowest warning level in the advisory system.{{Cite web|url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/coronavirus/2020/08/27/franklin-county-covid-19-advisory-downgraded-to-level-2-for-first-time/42341651/|title = Franklin County COVID-19 advisory downgraded to Level 2 for first time}}
October 15: Franklin County is elevated to "Level 3" or "Red".{{Cite web|url=https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/2020/10/15/ohio-covid-19-heatmap/3667040001/|title = 29 Ohio counties 'red' on state's coronvirus heat map; Warren and Franklin counties newly red}}
November 19: Franklin County is elevated to "Level 4" or "Purple", the highest of Ohio's COVID warning levels, and the first county to rise to the level.{{Cite web|url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/2020/11/19/ohioans-still-await-issuance-tonights-10-p-m-covid-curfew-order/3775451001/|title = Franklin County first in Ohio at highest 'purple' COVID rating; state has 7,700 new cases}}
December 3: Franklin County is downgraded to "Level 3" or "Red".{{Cite web|url=https://www.nbc4i.com/community/health/coronavirus/franklin-county-drops-to-red-8-counties-now-purple-in-ohios-latest-coronavirus-advisory-map/|title = Franklin County drops to red, 8 counties now purple in Ohio's latest coronavirus advisory map|date = December 3, 2020}}

;2021

April 15: Franklin County is elevated to "Level 4" or "Purple".{{Cite web|url=https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/back-to-purple-franklin-county-returns-to-level-4-on-ohios-latest-covid-19-map/|title=Back to purple: Franklin County returns to level 4 on Ohio's latest COVID-19 map|date=April 15, 2021}}
April 29: Franklin County is downgraded to "Level 3" or "Red"{{Cite web|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/ohio-public-health-advisory-map-04-29-2021|title = Franklin County drops to 'Red Alert Level 3' on coronavirus advisory map|date = April 29, 2021}}
May 27: Ohio retires the Public Health Advisory System.{{Cite web|url=https://www.wlwt.com/article/ohio-scraps-color-coded-map-no-more-covid-19-advisory-system/36560308|title=Ohio scraps color-coded map: No more COVID-19 advisory system|date=May 27, 2021}}
July 30: The CDC's COVID community transmission map indicates Franklin County has a substantial (orange) incidence of COVID-19 spread.{{Cite web|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/franklin-county-elevated-second-highest-level-on-cdc-covid-19-transmission-map-7-30-2021|title=Franklin County elevated second-highest level on CDC COVID-19 transmission map|date=July 30, 2021}}
August 9: Franklin County is elevated to show a high incidence of COVID-19 spread, indicated in red.{{Cite web|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/franklin-county-elevated-to-highest-level-on-cdc-covid-19-transmission-map|title = Franklin County elevated to highest level on CDC COVID-19 transmission map|date = August 9, 2021}}

= Ohio Statehouse protests and counter-protests =

File: Columbus coronavirus protests at the Ohio Statehouse, 2020-04-18c.jpg on April 18]]

Multiple protests over the state's handling of the pandemic have taken place in Columbus. Protesters from various groups gathered at the Ohio Statehouse for "Open Our Ohio" rallies on April 9, 13, and 18. On the 18th, hundreds protested the state "infringing on personal rights", with signs also against vaccinations, abortions, postponing Ohio's primaries, and closing businesses. Cars and trucks circled the Statehouse while honking, and protesters lined High Street for about one and a half hours.{{cite web|title=Protesters gather outside of Ohio Statehouse, call for an end to stay at home orders|last=Smith|first=Mary|work=WSYX|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/protesters-gather-outside-of-ohio-statehouse|date=April 18, 2020|access-date=April 18, 2020|archive-date=April 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200419071317/https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/protesters-gather-outside-of-ohio-statehouse|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Protesters rally against state closures at Ohio Statehouse amid coronavirus pandemic|work=WBNS-10TV|url=https://www.10tv.com/article/protesters-rally-against-state-closures-ohio-statehouse-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-2020-apr|date=April 18, 2020|access-date=April 18, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200419033402/https://www.10tv.com/article/protesters-rally-against-state-closures-ohio-statehouse-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-2020-apr|archive-date=April 19, 2020|url-status=dead}}

On April 24, the Ohio Organizing Collaborative protested at the Statehouse. The group pushed for 20,000 prisoners to be released from Ohio prisons to stop the virus's spread. Two of the largest outbreaks in the U.S. have been in Ohio prisons. Like past protests, the participants circled the statehouse in cars honking their horns, although some protesters staged a die-in, lying beside the Statehouse steps.{{cite web|last1=Wynn|first1=Sarah|last2=Garbarek|first2=Ben|title=Group calls for Governor DeWine to release 20,000 prisoners in May to slow COVID-19 spread|work=WSYX|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/group-calls-for-governor-dewine-to-release-20000-prisoners-in-may-to-slow-covid-19-spread|date=April 24, 2020|access-date=April 27, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201745/https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/group-calls-for-governor-dewine-to-release-20000-prisoners-in-may-to-slow-covid-19-spread|url-status=live}} On April 25, the Toledo Tea Party resumed shutdown protests at the state capitol.{{cite web|last=Dunigan|first=Rodney|title=Protesters continue to call for reopening of Ohio businesses|work=WSYX|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/protesters-continue-to-call-for-reopening-of-ohio-businesses|date=April 25, 2020|access-date=April 27, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201804/https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/protesters-continue-to-call-for-reopening-of-ohio-businesses|url-status=live}} Another stay-at-home order protest took place on May 1, the day Ohio's order was set to expire.{{cite news|title=Armed protesters gathered outside statehouse demanding DeWine reopen Ohio|work=Fox 8|url=https://fox8.com/news/coronavirus/armed-protesters-gathered-outside-statehouse-demanding-dewine-reopen-ohio/|date=May 1, 2020|access-date=May 4, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201739/https://fox8.com/news/coronavirus/armed-protesters-gathered-outside-statehouse-demanding-dewine-reopen-ohio/|url-status=live}} On May 3, about 35 physicians, wearing face masks and lab coats, quietly stood in support of Amy Acton. The event was organized by the Physicians Action Network, with participants following social distancing, standing 6 feet apart.{{cite news|last1=Kovac|first1=Marc|last2=Woods|first2=Jim|last3=Ferenchik|first3=Mark|title=Coronavirus in Ohio: Doctors, other medical workers gather at Statehouse to support Dr. Acton|newspaper=The Columbus Dispatch|url=https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200503/coronavirus-in-ohio-doctors-other-medical-workers-gather-at-statehouse-to-support-dr-acton|date=May 3, 2020|access-date=May 4, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201738/https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200503/coronavirus-in-ohio-doctors-other-medical-workers-gather-at-statehouse-to-support-dr-acton|url-status=live}} Another protest against the stay-at-home order took place May 9, by the group Free Ohio Now.{{cite news|url=https://www.whio.com/news/free-ohio-now-group-protests-ohio-statehouse-rally-around-ohio-event/274KSJGQ3VHD7MXTUCWATYRPFM/|publisher=WHIO|title=Free Ohio Now group protests at Ohio Statehouse in Rally Around Ohio event|date=May 9, 2020|access-date=May 13, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201735/https://www.whio.com/news/free-ohio-now-group-protests-ohio-statehouse-rally-around-ohio-event/274KSJGQ3VHD7MXTUCWATYRPFM/|url-status=live}}

The only protests outside of the Statehouse took place May 2, at Amy Acton's house in Bexley, an enclave of Columbus. There about 25 people stood on the sidewalk with Ohio and US flags and protest signs, a quieter demonstration than those at the Statehouse. About 10 counterprotesters also arrived, many wearing face masks.{{cite news|title=Small group protests Ohio coronavirus restrictions outside Health Department Director Dr. Amy Acton's house|work=Cleveland.com|url=https://www.cleveland.com/open/2020/05/small-group-protests-ohio-coronavirus-restrictions-outside-health-department-director-dr-amy-actons-house.html|date=May 2, 2020|access-date=May 4, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201718/https://www.cleveland.com/open/2020/05/small-group-protests-ohio-coronavirus-restrictions-outside-health-department-director-dr-amy-actons-house.html|url-status=live}}

On July 18, several groups protested outside of the Statehouse including anti-mask protesters and Black Lives Matter (BLM) supporters.{{cite web|last=Thomas|first=Matthew|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/anti-mask-rally-held-at-ohio-statehouse|title='Anti-mask' rally, Black Lives Matter protests held at Ohio Statehouse|publisher=WSYX|date=July 18, 2020|accessdate=October 2, 2024}}

=Reopening efforts and further shutdowns=

Following Governor Mike DeWine's reopening guidelines in early May, businesses began to reopen. Bars and restaurants could reopen their outdoor dining rooms on May 15. The reopening caused some crowds at the businesses.{{Cite news |url=https://www.10tv.com/article/customers-flock-columbus-bar-it-reopens-2020-may |title=Customers flock to Columbus bar as it reopens|access-date=May 16, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200520155728/https://www.10tv.com/article/customers-flock-columbus-bar-it-reopens-2020-may |archive-date=May 20, 2020 |url-status=dead|date=May 15, 2020}} Unlike many large cities in Ohio and elsewhere, Columbus has not shut down any streets for outdoor dining or otherwise, with the mayor deeming it irresponsibly increasing the likelihood of further coronavirus spread.{{cite news|url=https://www.dispatch.com/business/20200514/coronavirus-ohio-restaurants-bars-to-reopen-patios-who-will-come|date=May 14, 2020|title=Coronavirus: Ohio restaurants, bars to reopen patios; who will come?|work=The Columbus Dispatch|access-date=May 16, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201717/https://www.dispatch.com/business/20200514/coronavirus-ohio-restaurants-bars-to-reopen-patios-who-will-come|url-status=live}} The Friday, May 15 reopenings caused nine bars and restaurants to violate social distancing requirements, causing each of the businesses to be issued warnings. Standard Hall, a bar in the Short North, was issued multiple citations, after Columbus Public Health received 10 complaints, gave a warning, and returned with Columbus police, to find more violations. The owner refused to sign the citation.{{cite news|url=https://radio.wosu.org/post/nine-columbus-restaurants-and-bars-cited-social-distancing-violations|title=Nine Columbus Restaurants And Bars Cited For Social Distancing Violations|first=Paige|last=Pfleger|date=May 18, 2020|publisher=WOSU|access-date=May 19, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201719/https://radio.wosu.org/post/nine-columbus-restaurants-and-bars-cited-social-distancing-violations|url-status=live}} The owner commented that he was not given time to break up the crowds before the second citation. His business will remain closed to avoid it being given city-ordered shutdown.{{cite news|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/standard-hall-owner-they-didnt-give-us-a-chance-before-inspectors-issued-2nd-warning|publisher=WSYX|title=Standard Hall owner: 'They didn't give us a chance' before inspectors issued 2nd warning|first=Geoff|last=Redick|date=May 17, 2020|access-date=May 19, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201850/https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/standard-hall-owner-they-didnt-give-us-a-chance-before-inspectors-issued-2nd-warning|url-status=live}}

Cases and positivity rates spiked in mid-to-late November, with multiple days of a record-breaking number of cases reported in Ohio.{{Cite web|url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/2020/11/20/ohio-sets-new-record-8-808-new-coronavirus-cases/6354131002/|title = Ohio sets new record with 8,808 new coronavirus cases}} Franklin County issued a 28-day stay-at-home advisory on November 17, warning residents to only leave their homes for work, school, or essentials. Following news of the advisory, the Columbus Metropolitan Library system returned to only offering curbside and walk-up services.{{Cite web|url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/2020/11/19/columbus-metropolitan-library-have-curbside-only-service/6342500002/|title = Columbus libraries close buildings to public again, return to curbside service}} The COSI science museum announced it will delay its reopening efforts on November 17.{{Cite web|url=https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/cosi-delays-its-reopening-as-coronavirus-cases-surge/|title = COSI delays its reopening as coronavirus cases surge|date = November 17, 2020}} On the same day, Governor DeWine issued a three-week curfew for all Ohioans, from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. beginning November 19.{{Cite web|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/governor-mike-dewine-issuing-3-week-ohio-curfew-starting-11-19-20|title = Ohio governor issues 3-week statewide curfew effective Thursday|date = November 17, 2020}} On November 20, the Columbus Museum of Art and National Veterans Memorial and Museum announced temporary closures due to the increase in cases.

Cases

File:Franklin County, OH COVID-19 statistics.png

The first case of an infected Columbus resident was reported on March 14. The resident tested positive after returning from a cruise.{{cite web |author=Mark Ferenchik |url=https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200314/columbus-man-among-26-ohioans-diagnosed-with-coronavirus |title=Columbus man among 26 Ohioans diagnosed with coronavirus |work=The Columbus Dispatch |access-date=2020-04-05 |archive-date=March 28, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328220709/https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200314/columbus-man-among-26-ohioans-diagnosed-with-coronavirus |url-status=live }}

On May 12, Columbus was included in a White House Coronavirus Task Force list of cities to watch in a potential spike in coronavirus cases.{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/white-house/unreleased-white-house-report-shows-coronavirus-rates-spiking-heartland-communities-n1204751|work=NBC News|title=Unreleased White House report shows coronavirus rates spiking in heartland communities|date=May 11, 2020|first1=Jonathan|last1=Allen|first2=Phil|last2=McCausland|first3=Cyrus|last3=Farivar|access-date=May 13, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201854/https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/white-house/unreleased-white-house-report-shows-coronavirus-rates-spiking-heartland-communities-n1204751|url-status=live}} The city's health commissioner explained that the data used was for all of Central Ohio, including large outbreaks in prisons outside Franklin County.{{cite news|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/health-commissioner-explains-why-columbus-is-seen-as-potential-covid-19-hot-spot|publisher=WSYX|title=Health commissioner explains why Columbus is seen as potential COVID-19 hot spot|date=May 13, 2020|first=Adam|last=Slinger|access-date=May 16, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201719/https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/health-commissioner-explains-why-columbus-is-seen-as-potential-covid-19-hot-spot|url-status=live}}

Government response and aid efforts

{{Main|U.S. state and local government responses to the COVID-19 pandemic}}

File:Ohio National Guard - 49702071671.jpg

;2020

March 13: Columbus's utility department suspends water and power shutoffs to April 15
March 15: Ohio Department of Job and Family Services expands flexibility for unemployment applications
March 16: Columbus City Schools creates a map for locations children and teenagers can receive free meals funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture
March 17: City Council commits $1 million to support families in need of food or housing
March 19: City Council expedites funds to local service organizations
Early April: The City of Columbus, along with the YMCA and Community Shelter Board, open a COVID-19-specific homeless shelter in the city, to house those who are infected and help prevent the spread of the virus.{{cite news|url=https://radio.wosu.org/post/columbus-homeless-shelter-readies-house-people-covid-19|publisher=WOSU|title=Columbus Homeless Shelter Readies To House People With COVID-19|date=April 21, 2020|first=Adora|last=Namigadde|access-date=May 20, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201719/https://radio.wosu.org/post/columbus-homeless-shelter-readies-house-people-covid-19|url-status=live}}
November 18: Columbus and Franklin County Public Health announce a stay-at-home advisory. The advisory urges people to only leave home for work or school, or for essential needs like medical care. The advisory is not set to be enforced.
December 17: Columbus Public Health and Franklin County Public Health extend the Stay-at-Home Advisory until January 2, 2021.{{Cite web|url=https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/franklin-county-stay-at-home-advisory-extended-through-jan-2/|title=Franklin County stay-at-home advisory extended through Jan. 2|website=nbc4i.com|date=December 17, 2020}}

=Outside sources=

;2020

March 12: the Columbus Foundation activates a fund for nonprofit organizations
March 16: local utilities including AEP and Columbia Gas suspend disconnections over nonpayments
March 17: United Way of Central Ohio launches a fund for local nonprofits
March 20: Middle West Spirits begins producing hand sanitizer for local EMS and shelters
April 30: Kroger is beginning drive-through testing at Franklin Park Conservatory, to continue daily until May 2 and twice weekly until May 21{{cite news|url=https://www.columbusunderground.com/coronavirus-update-more-mask-clarification-kroger-drive-thru-testing-graduations-more-tm1|title=Coronavirus Update: More Mask Clarification, Kroger Drive-Thru Testing, Graduations & More|work=Columbus Underground|date=April 29, 2020|first=Taijuan|last=Moorman|access-date=April 29, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201719/https://www.columbusunderground.com/coronavirus-update-more-mask-clarification-kroger-drive-thru-testing-graduations-more-tm1|url-status=live}}
May 11–15: The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center is distributing thousands of community-donated care packages to communities in the county. The kits, containing masks, soap, sanitizer, water, dental hygiene supplies, and educational materials, will be passed out in the county's most vulnerable neighborhoods, lower in socioeconomic status and health conditions, making them disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus.

Economic impact

File:Engine House No. 16 (Columbus, Ohio).jpg

File:Easton Town Center closed.jpg, a major mall complex during the stay-at-home order in March]]

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak schools were closed on March 17 and will remain close until May 1. All of Ohio's state playgrounds, cabins, marinas, golf courses and campgrounds have been closed.

Governor Mike DeWine issued a stay at home order for all Ohio's citizens until May 1 with the exception of citizens who provides essential services and has closed all non-essential indoors business like arcades and laser tag.

The COVID-19 outbreak has caused record-breaking levels of unemployment which has caused 187,784 citizens to file for unemployment and by the end of the week ending on March 27 was followed by 272,117.

=Business closures and event cancellations=

Cancelled, rescheduled, or made-virtual events in 2020:{{cite web|title=Canceled for COVID-19? Events around Columbus making changes to "stop the spread"|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/canceled-for-covid-19-events-around-columbus-making-changes-to-stop-the-spread|date=April 8, 2020|access-date=April 21, 2020|archive-date=April 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200425161042/https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/canceled-for-covid-19-events-around-columbus-making-changes-to-stop-the-spread|url-status=live}}

Sonic Temple Art + Music Festival – cancelled
Columbus Asian Festival – cancelled
Ohio Black Expo – hosting virtually
Wicked production in Columbus – postponed, date TBD
Chris Stapleton concert – postponed, date TBD
Komen Race for the Cure – postponed, date TBD
Columbus International Film Festival (April 15–19) – hosted virtually{{Cite web |title=Columbus International Animation + Film Festival Goes Virtual |work=ColumbusUnderground.com |date=April 15, 2020 |access-date=April 20, 2020 |url=https://www.columbusunderground.com/columbus-international-animation-film-festival-goes-virtual-hm1 |archive-date=April 23, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200423160229/https://www.columbusunderground.com/columbus-international-animation-film-festival-goes-virtual-hm1 |url-status=live }}
Memorial Tournament (June 1–7) – delayed to July 13–19{{cite web|title=Statement Regarding COVID-19|website=The Memorial Tournament|url=https://www.thememorialtournament.com/covid-19-information/|date=April 16, 2020|access-date=April 27, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201719/https://www.thememorialtournament.com/covid-19-information/|url-status=live}}
Sundays at Scioto (June 7) – cancelled
WWE Friday Night SmackDown (June 12) – delayed to December 28
Columbus Arts Festival (June 12–14) – cancelled
Stonewall Columbus Pride Parade (June 19–20) – cancelled, some virtual activities{{Cite web |title=Coronavirus In Ohio: March 24 – April 10 |last1=Rosenberg |first1=Gabe |last2=Houser |first2=Nick |last3=Bonis |first3=Michael De |work=radio.wosu.org |url=https://radio.wosu.org/post/coronavirus-ohio-march-24-april-10#stream/0 |date=March 24, 2020 |access-date=April 20, 2020 |archive-date=April 17, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200417153401/https://radio.wosu.org/post/coronavirus-ohio-march-24-april-10#stream/0 |url-status=live }}
Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival (June 19–21) – cancelled
Buckeye Country Superfest (June 20) – cancelled
ComFest at Goodale Park (June 26–28) – delayed to September
Red, White & Boom! (July 3) – cancelled, some virtual activities
Columbus Doo Dah Parade (July 4) – delayed to September{{cite news|url=https://www.columbusunderground.com/coronavirus-update-doo-dah-parade-summer-jam-west-liquor-rebate-more-tm1|title=Coronavirus Update: Doo Dah Parade, Summer Jam West, Liquor Rebate & More|date=May 11, 2020|first=Taijuan|last=Moorman|work=Columbus Underground|access-date=May 16, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201719/https://www.columbusunderground.com/coronavirus-update-doo-dah-parade-summer-jam-west-liquor-rebate-more-tm1|url-status=live}}
Dublin Fourth of July (July 4) – cancelled
Journey and The Pretenders concert (July 10)
Summer Jam West festival (July 11) – cancelled
Jazz & Rib Fest (July 24–26) – cancelled
Ohio State Fair (July 29-August 9) – cancelled
Pelotonia (August 7) – cancelled, some virtual activities
Dublin Irish Festival (July 31–August 2) – cancelled{{cite news|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/2020-dublin-irish-festival-canceled|publisher=WSYX|title=2020 Dublin Irish Festival canceled|date=May 28, 2020|first=Sarah|last=Wynn|access-date=May 29, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201718/https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/2020-dublin-irish-festival-canceled|url-status=live}}
Festival Latino (August 8–9) – cancelled, some virtual activities{{cite news|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/coronavirus/2020-festival-latino-canceled-due-to-covid-19-pandemic|publisher=WSYX|date=May 28, 2020|title=2020 Festival Latino canceled due to COVID-19 pandemic|first=Sarah|last=Winn|access-date=May 29, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201722/https://abc6onyourside.com/news/coronavirus/2020-festival-latino-canceled-due-to-covid-19-pandemic|url-status=live}}
Columbus Food Truck Festival (August 14–15) – cancelled
Columbus Oktoberfest (September 11–13) – cancelled{{cite web|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/2020-columbus-oktoberfest-canceled-due-to-pandemic-race-to-be-held-virtually|title=2020 Columbus Oktoberfest canceled due to pandemic, race to be held 'virtually'|date=July 24, 2020|first1=Matthew|last1=Thomas|publisher=WSYX|access-date=July 24, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201723/https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/2020-columbus-oktoberfest-canceled-due-to-pandemic-race-to-be-held-virtually|url-status=live}}
Taste of Italy (October 5) – cancelled
Columbus Italian Festival (October 9–11) – cancelled{{cite news|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/columbus-italian-festival-canceled-due-to-covid-19|title=Taste of Italy, Columbus Italian Festival canceled due to COVID-19|date=July 28, 2020|publisher=WSYX|first=Jarrod|last=Clay|access-date=July 29, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201725/https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/columbus-italian-festival-canceled-due-to-covid-19|url-status=live}}
Columbus Marathon (October 18) – cancelled{{cite news|url=https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200629/columbus-marathon-and-12-marathons-cancelled-due-to-coronavirus|work=The Columbus Dispatch|date=June 29, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200801055955/https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200629/columbus-marathon-and-12-marathon-canceled-due-to-coronavirus|archive-date=August 1, 2020|first=Erica|last=Thompson|url-status=dead|title=Columbus Marathon and 1/2 Marathon canceled due to coronavirus}}
2021 Columbus Arts Festival (June 11–13) – cancelled
2021 Jazz & Rib Fest (July 23–25) – cancelled{{Cite web|url=https://www.columbusunderground.com/coronavirus-update-curfew-ended-jazz-fest-canceled-more-tm1|title = Coronavirus Update: Curfew Ended, Jazz Fest Canceled, & More|date = February 11, 2021}}

==Film industry and the performing arts==

Movie theaters, including drive-ins, were ordered closed on March 17. Drive-ins were allowed to reopen on May 12, earlier than most businesses, as they do not carry a risk of spreading the virus.{{cite news|url=https://www.dispatch.com/entertainment/20200509/drive-in-movie-theaters-hope-to-usher-in-comeback-for-entertainment-sector|work=The Columbus Dispatch|date=May 9, 2020|title=Drive-in movie theaters hope to usher in comeback for entertainment sector|first=Peter|last=Tonguette|access-date=May 28, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201725/https://www.dispatch.com/entertainment/20200509/drive-in-movie-theaters-hope-to-usher-in-comeback-for-entertainment-sector|url-status=live}}

==Food service and restaurant industry==

{{See also|Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the restaurant industry in the United States}}

File:Columbus, OH - COVID 01.jpg

The city's restaurant industry was impacted by the state's bar and restaurant ban. With all restaurants and bars closed to dining in, many in the area have stayed open for carryout and delivery services. About 175 businesses have been added to "SupportColumbusEats", a website listing restaurant service options and tipping options for unemployed workers.{{cite news|last=Post|first=Susan|title=New Website Launches to Roundup Columbus Restaurant Options|newspaper=Columbus Dispatch|url=https://www.columbusunderground.com/new-website-launches-to-roundup-columbus-restaurant-options-sp1|date=March 19, 2020|access-date=April 27, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201729/https://www.columbusunderground.com/new-website-launches-to-roundup-columbus-restaurant-options-sp1|url-status=live}} On April 14, FoodFirst Global Restaurants, founded in Columbus and operating a Brio Tuscan Grille in Easton, announced it was filing for bankruptcy and may not reopen any restaurants. The restaurants had been struggling even before the pandemic began.{{cite news|last=Campbell|first=Polly|title=Brio and Bravo Italian restaurants may never reopen due to parent company's bankruptcy|newspaper=The Cincinnati Enquirer|url=https://www.cincinnati.com/story/entertainment/dining/2020/04/14/brio-and-bravo-italian-restaurants-may-never-reopen-due-bankruptcy/2988734001/|date=April 14, 2020|access-date=April 27, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201732/https://www.cincinnati.com/story/entertainment/dining/2020/04/14/brio-and-bravo-italian-restaurants-may-never-reopen-due-bankruptcy/2988734001/|url-status=live}} In May, it was reported that most downtown restaurants, though reopen, were suffering from low business volumes. Downtown Columbus still has a small residential population of under 10,000, while upwards of 100,000 people regularly commuted to around the Statehouse for office work. Closed and work-from-home offices have led to significantly reduced foot traffic, causing the downtown location of Jack and Benny's to permanently close, with Andes Bar and Grill considering permanently closing as well.{{cite news|last=Cooley|first=Patrick|title=Lack of office workers devastates Downtown restaurants|newspaper=The Columbus Dispatch|url=https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/lack-of-office-workers-devastates-downtown-restaurants/ar-BB14Gvcy|date=May 28, 2020|access-date=May 28, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201735/https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/lack-of-office-workers-devastates-downtown-restaurants/ar-BB14Gvcy|url-status=live}}

Other permanently closed foodservice operations include Juniper in the Smith Bros. Hardware Building, The Sycamore, Cosecha Cocina, Little Eater in North Market, Phenix Bistro, Plantain Cafe, Belly Burger, Winking Lizard, two White Castle locations, and three locations of the Max & Erma's chain. Restaurants up for sale include The Table and Elevator Brewing Co. (the brewery and taproom, not the separately-owned restaurant). Several restaurants have ceased expansion plans, including many in the North Market expansion in Dublin, Ohio planned for 2020.{{cite news|url=https://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2020/06/29/columbus-area-restaurants-that-have-closed-in-2020.html|title=Closed by Covid: These Central Ohio restaurants shuttered during the first half of 2020|first=Dan|last=Eaton|work=Columbus Business First|access-date=August 11, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201736/https://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2020/06/29/columbus-area-restaurants-that-have-closed-in-2020.html|url-status=live}} By December 2020, over two dozen restaurants in Columbus had permanently closed during the pandemic.{{Cite web |url=https://www.columbusalive.com/foodanddining/20201228/central-ohio-restaurants-and-bars-that-closed-in-2020 |title=Central Ohio Restaurants and Bars That Closed in 2020 - Food and Dining - Columbus Alive - Columbus, OH |access-date=December 29, 2020 |archive-date=December 30, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201230012628/https://www.columbusalive.com/foodanddining/20201228/central-ohio-restaurants-and-bars-that-closed-in-2020 |url-status=dead }}

The pandemic has also caused temporary restaurant and bar closures in the city as employees have tested positive for the virus.{{cite news|url=https://www.dispatch.com/business/20200709/see-which-columbus-area-restaurants-have-closed-after-positive-covid-19-cases|title=See which Columbus-area restaurants have closed after positive COVID-19 cases|work=The Columbus Dispatch|date=July 9, 2020|first=Samantha|last=Raudins|access-date=August 14, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201801/https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/coronavirus/2020/07/09/see-which-columbus-area-restaurants-have-closed-after-positive-covid-19-cases/112736964/|url-status=live}}

==Hospitality industry==

The hospitality industry also experienced a wave of guest cancellations followed by a decline in bookings. Dock 580, a Columbus-based wedding and event company, permanently closed due to losses in the pandemic.{{cite news|url=https://www.nbc4i.com/news/columbus-based-wedding-and-event-venue-company-closing-will-not-return-deposits/|title=Columbus-based wedding and event venue company closing, will not return deposits|date=June 12, 2020|publisher=NBC4 WCMH-TV|access-date=June 13, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201815/https://www.nbc4i.com/news/columbus-based-wedding-and-event-venue-company-closing-will-not-return-deposits/|url-status=live}}

==Impact on university and professional sports==

{{See also|Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sports|2020 Ohio State Buckeyes football team}}

On August 12, 2020, the Big Ten Conference cancelled its football season, which would have included all of the popular Ohio State Buckeyes football games.{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/16/sports/ncaafootball/covid-big-ten-football-season.html|title = Big Ten Will Play Football in 2020, Reversing Decision|newspaper = The New York Times|date = September 16, 2020|last1 = Blinder|first1 = Alan}} This decision was reversed on September 16 when the Big Ten Conference announced that each team would play eight games in eight weeks beginning on October 24.{{cite web |title=Big Ten football to resume weekend of Oct. 24 |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/29897305/sources-big-ten-announce-october-return |website=ESPN.com |access-date=16 September 2020 |language=en |date=16 September 2020}}

On November 19, 2020, the Columbus Crew granted 1,500 fans to attend its November 21 soccer game, though hours later, it rescinded the announcement, only allowing family and guests of the staff, coaches, and players to attend. This is the first restriction on fans since September 6.{{Cite web|url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2020/11/19/columbus-crew-restricts-fans-attending-saturdays-playoff-game/3777143001/|title = Columbus Crew | with COVID-19 cases surging in county, no fans at Saturday's playoff match}}

Impact on education

Due to the pandemic, The Ohio State University and other colleges and universities in the city canceled in-person classes, moving to remote learning for the remainder of the semester. Additionally, with Governor Mike DeWine ordering all K-12 schools across the state to close through May 1, Columbus City Schools moved to remote learning during the closure. Columbus City Schools, along with other area school districts, began meal programs to provide to students under the age of 18.

Impact on public transport

File:COTA rollsign 01.jpg buses notify riders to board using rear doors only]]

File:Columbus electric scooters.jpg and Spin scooters returned to Columbus streets in late April]]

In early March, as the pandemic began affecting Ohio, the city's public transit ridership began dropping, approximately 40 percent. Its public transit agency COTA began by introducing thorough cleaning measures, followed by reducing several rush-hour services on March 17. On March 19, it suspended fare collection, making all rides temporarily free, and required passengers to board and depart buses from the rear doors. On the same day, it also modified all rush-hour lines and suspended its AirConnect and Night Owl services. On March 20, the agency recommended only using its services for essential travel; two days later it shut down several rush-hour services and reduced frequencies of nine crosstown lines. On March 24, it stopped all rush-hour services until further notice.{{Cite web|title=Major Service Change Announcements|work=Central Ohio Transit Authority|access-date=March 19, 2020|url=https://www.cota.com/major-service-change-announcements/|archive-date=April 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200419230803/https://www.cota.com/major-service-change-announcements/|url-status=live}} On March 26, the agency began "dynamic service" to pick up customers left at bus stops by too-full buses; the agency's current policy is for a maximum of 20 passengers per bus.{{cite web|title=For Essential Travel, COTA and CoGo Are Still Available (But Scooters Aren't)|work=Columbus Underground|date=March 26, 2020|access-date=March 28, 2020|url=https://www.columbusunderground.com/for-essential-workers-cota-and-cogo-are-still-available-but-scooters-arent-bw1|archive-date=March 28, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328213246/https://www.columbusunderground.com/for-essential-workers-cota-and-cogo-are-still-available-but-scooters-arent-bw1|url-status=live}} On March 28, a COTA bus operator tested positive for the disease.{{cite web |url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/cota-employee-tests-postive-for-coronavirus |title=COTA employee tests positive for coronavirus | WSYX |publisher=Abc6onyourside.com |date=March 28, 2020 |access-date=2020-04-08 |archive-date=April 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200425144838/https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/cota-employee-tests-postive-for-coronavirus |url-status=live }} On March 30, COTA suspended service on routes 21, 25, and 35. On April 7, a second driver tested positive for the disease.{{Cite web|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/second-cota-bus-driver-tests-positive-for-covid-19-drivers-concerned|title=Second COTA bus driver tests positive for COVID-19, drivers concerned|first=Mary|last=Smith|date=April 7, 2020|website=WSYX|access-date=April 13, 2020|archive-date=April 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200425144843/https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/second-cota-bus-driver-tests-positive-for-covid-19-drivers-concerned|url-status=live}} On April 11, the agency announced it will require passengers to wear face masks.{{Cite web|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/cota-to-require-customers-to-wear-masks|title=COTA to require customers to wear masks on all transit vehicles|first=Sarah Wynn, Mary|last=Smith|date=April 11, 2020|website=WSYX|access-date=April 13, 2020|archive-date=April 15, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200415093151/https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/cota-to-require-customers-to-wear-masks|url-status=live}} On April 27, following further route reductions and a third COTA worker testing positive, it announced all late-night and early hours would be cut, making all services only run from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Ridership is down about 65 percent from before the virus.{{cite web|title=COTA Cuts Late Night and Early Morning Service|work=Columbus Underground|url=https://www.columbusunderground.com/cota-cuts-late-night-and-early-morning-service-bw1|date=April 27, 2020|access-date=April 27, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201826/https://www.columbusunderground.com/cota-cuts-late-night-and-early-morning-service-bw1|url-status=live}} On May 2, as a portion of businesses began to reopen, COTA announced it will resume some early-morning services on May 5.{{cite news|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/cota-adding-bus-routes-as-businesses-prepare-to-reopen|publisher=WSYX|title=COTA adding bus routes as businesses prepare to reopen|first=Matthew|last=Thomas|date=May 2, 2020|access-date=May 13, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201804/https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/cota-adding-bus-routes-as-businesses-prepare-to-reopen|url-status=live}}

Columbus's bikeshare program CoGo has continued to operate, with increased cleaning. On May 14, its operator Lyft announced that the bikes will become free to healthcare workers, until at least the end of June.{{Cite news|url=https://www.columbusunderground.com/cogo-now-offering-free-rides-for-healthcare-workers-bw1|work=Columbus Underground|date=May 15, 2020|title=CoGo Now Offering Free Rides for Healthcare Workers|first=Brent|last=Warren|access-date=May 16, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201838/https://www.columbusunderground.com/cogo-now-offering-free-rides-for-healthcare-workers-bw1|url-status=live}}

Bird, Spin, and Lime removed their electric scooters from Columbus streets in mid-March, but Lime scooters returned in late April, with Spin bikes returning about a week later. Lime and Spin's operators are also giving free rides to healthcare workers.

Impact on religion

Churches, along with all other houses of worship, were closed in Ohio as nonessential businesses. Many churches and some synagogues are choosing May 31, the Pentecost, as their first day to reopen. The city synagogues are following national guidelines from the Orthodox Union. Services at most houses of worship will require registering online, wearing masks, and social distancing. Although some houses of worship led virtual services, an Orthodox Jewish synagogue expressed that it was not possible for their congregation, as Orthodox Jews cannot use electricity, including computers and cell phones, on Shabbat.{{cite news|title=Coronavirus in Ohio: Some houses of worship to reopen Sunday, others more cautious|newspaper=The Columbus Dispatch|url=https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200527/coronavirus-in-ohio-some-houses-of-worship-to-reopen-sunday-others-more-cautious|date=May 27, 2020|access-date=May 28, 2020|archive-date=November 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116201808/https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200527/coronavirus-in-ohio-some-houses-of-worship-to-reopen-sunday-others-more-cautious|url-status=live}}

Closures

File:Cultural Arts Center, Columbus 04.jpg, were closed]]

;2020

On March 13, Columbus Recreation and Parks closed all locations through April 3, followed by Columbus Metropolitan Library and Columbus Zoo and Aquarium closing all of their locations through April 6.
Columbus Museum of Art, Franklin Park Conservatory, COSI (Center of Science and Industry), and National Veterans Memorial and Museum also shut their doors with COSI closing through April 3 and the National Veterans Memorial and Museum closing through April 8.
On March 16, All gyms, fitness centers, movie theaters, bowling alleys, public recreation centers, indoor water parks and trampoline parks followed by Hollywood Casino are closed.
On March 18, BMV closes a majority of its locations (180 locations) but still operating 5 of its locations. Salons, spas, barbershops, nail salons, and tattoo parlors are closed as well.
On March 20, Columbus Idea Foundry lays off all of its workers, including CEO Casey McCarty.{{Cite web|url=https://themetropreneur.com/columbus/columbus-idea-foundry-lays-off-staff/|title=Columbus Idea Foundry Lays Off Staff – The Metropreneur|last=Evans|first=Walker|date=March 20, 2020|language=en-US|access-date=2020-04-06|archive-date=March 29, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200329220035/https://themetropreneur.com/columbus/columbus-idea-foundry-lays-off-staff/|url-status=live}}
On March 25, Gateway Film Center lays off a majority of workers due to COVID-19.
On April 1, the YMCA also lays off a majority of its workers.
On April 3, Hocking Hills State Park became the first Ohio state park to close due to COVID-19.{{Cite web|url=https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200404/columbus-area-parks-officials-monitoring-use-as-ohio-closes-hocking-hills-state-park-over-coronavirus|title=Columbus area parks officials monitoring use as Ohio closes Hocking Hills State Park over coronavirus|last=Narciso|first=Dean|website=The Columbus Dispatch|language=en|access-date=2020-04-06|archive-date=April 9, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200409135047/https://www.dispatch.com/news/20200404/columbus-area-parks-officials-monitoring-use-as-ohio-closes-hocking-hills-state-park-over-coronavirus|url-status=live}}{{Cite web |last=Pappas |first=Stephanie Pappas |date=April 2020 |title=Ohio: Latest updates on coronavirus |url=https://www.livescience.com/ohio-coronavirus-updates.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200416213608/https://www.livescience.com/ohio-coronavirus-updates.html |archive-date=April 16, 2020 |access-date=2020-04-06 |website=livescience.com |language=en}}

Notable cases

Franklin County Commissioner Kevin Boyce {{ndash}} hospitalized{{Cite web|url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/2020/11/19/commissioner-boyce-pleas-added-precaution-slow-covid-19-spread/3776035001/|title = After recovering from COVID-19, Commissioner Kevin Boyce pleads for added precaution}}
State Senator for Ohio District 3 Tina Maharath {{ndash}} twice infected{{Cite web|url=https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/central-ohio-lawmaker-dealing-with-second-covid-19-diagnosis-since-august|title=Central Ohio lawmaker dealing with second COVID-19 diagnosis since August|date=November 18, 2020}}
State Representative for Ohio District 68 Rick Carfagna{{Cite web|url=https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/politics/2020/12/04/ohio-lawmaker-tests-positive-covid-19-after-working-statehouse/3833796001/|title=Ohio lawmaker tests positive for COVID-19 after attending session, committees this week}}

References

External links

{{official website|https://www.columbus.gov/coronavirus/}}
[https://radio.wosu.org/post/coronavirus-ohio-live-coverage-1#stream/0 April 12 to May 3 updates]
[https://radio.wosu.org/post/coronavirus-ohio-march-24-april-10#stream/0 March 24 to April 10 updates]

Columbus

COVID-19 pandemic

Columbus

Category:Disasters in Ohio

Category:Health in Ohio