No changes are contemplated for the major roads that currently traverse the district. The planned extension of Fred Taylor Drive north to Ackerman Road will increase the diversity of access to and through the district, providing an added option for motorists destined to the campus area from the north on Route 315. Additional traffic generated by events at the Schottenstein Center, and future development of land fronting on Ackerman Road, could trigger the need to increase the capacity of Fred Taylor Drive to accommodate these short peaks of heavy traffic. However, it is possible that this additional traffic volume could be accommodated with enhanced traffic management practices such as traffic officers or temporary signals. It is imperative that signal sequencing, intersection geometrics, and road cross sections on Lane Avenue, Ackerman Road, Fred Taylor Drive, and Olentangy River Road be adequate for daily peak hour conditions and pedestrian safety.
Parking is planned to serve the respective needs of the major land uses in the district.
Parking for Schottenstein Center events will be a critical factor. Should the frequency of events be such that there is consistent competition for parking supply in other University areas, it will be prudent to contemplate construction of multi-level structured parking on surface parking areas along Fred Taylor Drive proximate to the Schottenstein Center. Alternative sites for higher density or structured parking outside the Olentangy Plain District, but within close proximity to the Schottenstein Center, include the surface parking lots on the north and south sides of French Field House. Structured parking in these locations could meet both the needs of the larger University population and spectators going to the Schottenstein Center. Pedestrian and bicycle access to the Olentangy Plain District is affected by both the need to cross the Olentangy River as well as Olentangy River Road.