COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Plans for a concert venue in Columbus worth more than a quarter-billion dollars are in the works.

Columbus Symphony is planning a $275 million project it has called the Center of Music Innovation and Education. Site plans outlined a 200,000-square-foot facility that would develop West Bank Park for a new building, access walks and more.

“The symphony has had a hope and dream of doing this for 40 years,” Executive Director Denise Rehg said.

The venue is planned to be located at 181 Washington Boulevard, near COSI. Rehg called it the best location available. Although the symphony has taken the lead on the project, the venue will serve more than just it.

“It will have an entire wing pretty much that’s dedicated to community and education,” Rehg said.

Columbus Symphony has identified nine spaces that could be used for performances and educational opportunities. Rehg said national and local music acts will have chances to perform. She said the hope is for this to become Columbus’ version of the Sydney Opera House.

“The idea is to really elevate the community, we like to go around talking that it’s going to be like our Sydney, Australia Opera House,” Rehg said.

The Columbus Symphony has served as a music performance organization in Central Ohio since 1951. Recent performances hosted by it have included R&B singer Ne-Yo, a holiday show and more.

Construction on the project is expected to begin in September 2025 with doors set to open in September 2028.