(Dublin, Ohio) — Lace up your running shoes — the City of Dublin was recently designated as a Runner Friendly Community by the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA). Dublin is officially one of three Ohio cities (Dayton and Toledo) recognized by the RRCA for its running infrastructure and support from local businesses and government.
The goal of the RRCA’s Runner Friendly Community program is to shine a national spotlight on communities that stand out as runner-friendly and provide incentives and ideas for communities to work towards becoming runner-friendly communities. To be awarded the designation, communities must meet stringent criteria, including community infrastructure, community support, government support, and additional support, such as youth programs, running clubs, marked pathways and more. Nominations take place twice a year, and the home running club takes the lead in completing the submission. The Columbus Running Company (CRC) and the City partnered to submit a formal application, which included letters of support from local runners and city leadership and a video showcasing how Dublin meets runner friendly criteria.
CRC is central Ohio’s locally owned, indie running specialty store, race organizer and training program. The company welcomes avid runners to its Dublin storefront and hosts the annual CRC Mile Dash in July. CRC was named the Best Running Store in America in 2014 and has earned a spot on the top store’s list since.
What makes Dublin a runner friendly community?
Infrastructure
- The 2023 Parks and Recreation Master Plan highlighted that an impressive 35% of Dublin’s acreage is within a five-minute walkshed of each household, and 64% is within a 10-minute walkshed. Compared to the national average, Dublin boasts more than five times the number of shared-use path miles per 1,000 residents.
- The Dublin Community Recreation Center offers resources to help individuals prepare for races and maintain their running routines. The City is currently planning the Dublin Community Recreation Center Refresh, which will include more space on our fitness floor and an upgraded indoor track.
Community Support
- In 2023, there were 18 permitted races for runners and walkers in Dublin. The City also works closely with the John Sells Middle School cross-country team, which holds its races in Ballantrae Park.
- Partnerships with the Columbus Running Company, Dublin City Schools, M3Sports and nonprofits like 2FGR are invaluable. Collaboration with Dublin Arts Council enhances our parks and paths with public art, providing a unique and enriching experience for runners and walkers alike.
Safety
- A top priority in Dublin, the Police Department is vital in ensuring the safety of runners, pedestrians and cyclists along our paths and roadways. Committed to providing the highest level of service, our police force collaborates closely with the community to maintain public safety.
- In 2020, the City developed crosswalk treatment guidelines, which reviewed and recommended consistent crossing treatments. These guidelines ensure the appropriate treatment and signage for pedestrian crossings to maximize the pedestrian environment.
“Dublin has been and always will be a runner friendly community,” City Manager Megan O’Callaghan says. “With a focus on the future and a commitment to providing an exceptional environment for all, we strive to be second to none in promoting health and wellness among our residents, employees and visitors. This achievement is a testament to our dedication to creating a community that supports outdoor fitness and active lifestyles.”
About the City of Dublin, Ohio, USA
Dublin is a city of nearly 50,000 residents located just northwest of Columbus, Ohio. It offers residents and corporate citizens responsive services, attractive housing, superior public education, direct regional highway access, abundant park space, thoughtful and strategic planning, innovative ideas and technology and a dynamic community life. Dublin is ranked the number one small city in Ohio and is consistently ranked one of the safest cities in the nation. It is home to more than 20 corporate headquarters, an entrepreneurial center, 4,300+ businesses, world-class events and the urban, walkable Bridge Street District. For more information, visit DublinOhioUSA.gov or call 614.410.4400.
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Media Contact:
Madi Kregel
Public Information Officer
614.917.3080 – Cell
614.410.4509 – Desk
mkregel@dublin.oh.us
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