Welcome back to Athens!
Welcome back! It has been a long and weird summer, and the city has missed you. If you are moving back the fall, here is some information on what you missed and what to expect.
It has been too quiet – Like many other places, Athens had bars, restaurants and other businesses closed for a while. Many of the Athens Ohio rentals were empty. The Ohio University residence halls were empty, too. All of this was tough on the social scene and on the local economy. Much of the city’s economy depends on students shopping, eating out and paying Athens rent.
One good sign for the local economy – Local superstar Joe Burrow just signed a $36 million contract with the Cincinnati Bengals. At least one person is doing great this summer. The Ohio rent in Cincinnati is much more expensive than in Athens, though, so maybe it balances out a little.
Sports in Athens are a question – As of the beginning of August, the Ohio University football season is still scheduled. No one knows yet if the season will happen this fall or not. The same can be said about other OHIO sports, as well as high school sports. The city softball league was even cancelled this summer. Ironically, that makes this summer the most successful season my team has had in several years.
Local music will hopefully come back soon – The amazing Nelsonville Music Festival had to change plans this summer and had to be held online. It is still great, but we do miss the traditional festival. In the same manner, we miss all of the great live music around town. Please get out and support local music when it is safe to do so once again.
Welcome back… Local businesses are open for you!
Businesses are open and need support – While hours may be limited due to state regulations, businesses are open. Please be safe when visiting, but support the local businesses when you can.
More businesses now offer outdoor eating options – Be sure to try out some of the new options available to you.
Parks are open – We are fortunate to have so many amazing parks in and around Athens. This is a great time to take advantage of the scenic countryside in Appalachian Ohio.
Ohio University plans – The university plans to open for fall in two phases. The semester will start on Aug. 24, but most students will be taking classes online. Students in select programs will take classes in person. At the end of September, the university hopes to bring all students back to campus.
The best rentals in town are at University Rentals – One thing that never changes is that we offer the best rentals in Athens Ohio. Contact our staff members today to learn more about our wide selection of properties and welcome back Bobcats! [Photo kindly by Patrick Hendry]