SE Ohio Times

The Ohio House of Representatives has passed allocations from the Strategic Community Investment Fund, aimed at supporting statewide, regional, and local projects. The fund, which includes $350 million, was established under the state's main operating budget in 2023 and includes excess funding from the previous fiscal year.

State Representative Jay Edwards, Chairman of the House Finance Committee, expressed his confidence in the investments, stating, "There is no doubt these investments will strengthen our communities." Edwards emphasized his commitment to strategically funding projects that promote growth and make Ohio, particularly southeast Ohio, the best place to live, work, and raise a family.

Thanks to conservative fiscal stewardship, Edwards was able to secure significant one-time funding for various projects in Athens, Meigs, Morgan, and Washington Counties. These projects aim to enhance public safety, promote the aviation industry, foster community engagement, and improve infrastructure. Edwards outlined the allocations, stating:

- "$2.5 million to build the Athens Regional Training Center, supporting public safety agencies in the region."

- "$2.5 million to upgrade the Ohio University Airport, promoting the aviation industry in southeast Ohio."

- "$1.5 million to transform the Village of Racine Entertainment District and Streetscape, fostering opportunities for community engagement through the entertainment industry."

- "$1.5 million to construct an additional facility at the Pennsville Volunteer Fire Department Inc., equipping first responders to best serve their communities."

- "$1 million to create the Meigs County Transportation Hub, delivering widespread transportation services and infrastructure."

- "$500,000 to support the Appalachian Center for Economic Networks Food Sector Accelerator Project, creating jobs throughout the Appalachian region."

- "$500,000 to repurpose the historic Stanberry Building into a healthcare clinic, expanding access to care and promoting community health."

- "$350,000 to build a new Decatur Township building, establishing a community meeting and event space."

- "$250,000 to renovate the Nelsonville-York Elementary School playground, ensuring the safety of students and fostering opportunities for fun."

- "$250,000 to revitalize the 1872 Hall Complex, preserving Meigs County history."

- "$250,000 to modernize the Meigs County Fairgrounds, preserving infrastructure for the enjoyment of generations to come."

- "$250,000 to design and construct the Morgan County Emergency Communications Center, linking the public to emergency services, ultimately increasing public safety and accessibility to first responders."

- "$250,000 to modernize the Morgan County Fairgrounds, preserving infrastructure for the enjoyment of generations to come."

- "$139,731 to add a shelter and kayak launch at the City of Nelsonville Dog Park, encouraging outdoor recreation."

- "$100,000 to add sports infrastructure at the Buchtel Village Park, promoting community sportsmanship."

The legislation also includes statewide capital investments, such as $600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund, $400 million for the Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program, $397.6 million for higher education projects, and $250 million for local jail construction across Ohio.

These investments will be part of the State Capital Budget bill, a two-year construction budget for capital projects. The Ohio House's approval of the allocations demonstrates a commitment to strengthening local communities and supporting various sectors throughout the state.