Good morning, Athens.

Community members in Athens expressed concerns over a proposed data center near the Hocking River, high school, and bike path during recent public meetings — calls to protect local ecosystems and secure sustainable livelihoods are driving grassroots efforts, including work on the Sugar Creek Community Forest project.

Good Works offers no-cost home project help for low-income seniors, widows, widowers and disabled residents in Athens County provided they supply their own materials.

Volunteers will build ramps + repair porches as part of a 26-year Neighbors Helping Neighbors program.

Rural Action and BSC Group completed an extended flood hazard mapping project in Athens County from Aug.

2025 to June 2026 — providing local governments and residents with updated flood and erosion maps for planning. The maps help guide decisions on infrastructure, emergency operations, and land use.