Row of historic homes approved to transform into a tavern, restaurant, retail space, & more

Franklinton’s about to get a serious upgrade with the arrival of Sweeney’s Walnut Street Tavern, opening this fall at 500 W. Walnut St. This new hangout marks the beginning of a fresh chapter for the neighborhood, with additional plans to transform Walnut Street into a vibrant, quirky commercial hub.

Led by Jim Sweeney, former executive director of the Franklinton Development Association, and Blake Compton of Compton Construction, this project is turning a line of historic homes into a lively stretch of businesses. Eight houses—494, 500, 510, 514, 530, 532, 536, and 544 W. Walnut St.—are getting a major makeover, each set to play a part in this bustling new scene.

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And they’re not the only ones making moves. Other homeowners on Walnut Street are also jumping in. Jason Dahmer, who owns 506 W. Walnut St., just got the green light from the East Franklinton Review Board to turn his home into a mixed-use space, with plans for an event venue or cozy eatery on the first floor and an apartment above. Meanwhile, the owner of 520 W. Walnut St. is gearing up for a similar transformation, pending approval.

Sweeney’s Walnut Street Tavern is just the start of something big. The vision for Walnut Street includes a music hall, a restaurant, small retail shops, and even an artist residency space. There’s even talk of connecting some of the homes or backyards to create a more communal vibe.

The tavern’s decor will pay tribute to Franklinton’s history, featuring a large walnut wood cabinet behind the bar. And for opening night, admission will be your favorite vinyl record, which will become a part of the tavern’s collection.

Bringing these old homes up to code while preserving their charm is no easy task, but Sweeney and Compton are committed to keeping these pieces of history alive. Soon, Walnut Street will be buzzing, blending old-school charm with fresh, new energy in true Franklinton style.

You can stay up to date on the process on the Walnut Street Live’s Facebook!

Want to read more? Check out our print publications, (614) Magazine and Stock & Barrel. Learn where you can find free copies of our newest issues here!

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