COLUMBUS, Ohio — September 8, 2026 — Epcon Communities’ Courtyards at Morse Circle in suburban Columbus has been named by Columbus Business First as a 2026 Building Columbus Award winner in the Excellence in Development category.

Located at Morse Road and Reynoldsburg New Albany Road in Jefferson Township, the 101-home community demonstrates how Epcon’s low-maintenance courtyard home model can successfully bring a new housing option to communities traditionally dominated by large-lot single-family development.

The development was built in two phases, with construction beginning on the first phase in early 2021 and ending the second phase in April 2025. The two phases represent a combined investment of nearly $47 million.

The Courtyards at Morse Circle offers detached, one- and one-and-a-half-story homes designed for buyers seeking a lower-maintenance lifestyle, along with amenities including a clubhouse and swimming pool.

Epcon worked closely with Jefferson Township officials to secure approval for smaller lots while preserving significant open space. More than 17 acres — approximately 42.5% of the development — was preserved as greenspace, exceeding the township’s 40% requirement. Wooded areas, mature tree canopies, landscaping buffers and a stormwater pond help preserve the rural character of the surrounding area.

“This project demonstrates the value of collaboration with local communities,” said Joel Rhoades, CEO of Epcon Communities. “By working closely with Jefferson Township throughout the development process, we were able to create a neighborhood that meets the needs of today’s homeowners while respecting the character and priorities of the township.”

The development has also helped address an important local housing need: approximately 50% of Morse Circle buyers previously lived in Jefferson Township, allowing longtime residents to downsize without leaving the community.

“We’re proud of what Morse Circle represents, not only as a successful community, but as an example of how thoughtful development can respond to changing housing needs while respecting the character and priorities of the community,” said Craig Cherry, Epcon Communities’ Columbus regional president. The Building Columbus Awards recognize outstanding projects and the people behind the developments shaping Central Ohio.

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About Epcon Communities Epcon Communities is a leading national builder of low-maintenance, luxury ranch homes and lifestyle communities designed for active adults. Founded in 1986 in Columbus, Ohio, Epcon has built more than 40,000 homes across the country. With a focus on thoughtfully designed homes, distinctive community amenities and maintenance-free living, Epcon Communities helps homeowners enjoy more freedom to pursue the people, places and activities they love.