The Ohio House of Representatives passed Substitute House Bill 2, the state’s two-year construction budget for capital projects, as announced by Vice Chairman of the House Finance Committee, State Rep. Jeff LaRe (R-Violet Twp.). The bill allocates over $4.2 billion for capital projects and includes $717 million in one-time project funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund.
LaRe highlighted investments totaling $19,778,410 aimed at serving the 73rd House District and the surrounding region. These investments include:
– $11 million to revitalize Buckeye Lake North Shore Park and Pier.
– $2.8 million to convert the OP Chaney Grain Elevator into a cultural heritage event center.
– $2 million for purchasing and renovating the Fairfield County Government Services Building.
– $1 million for renovating the Violet Township Event Center.
– $1 million supporting the Walnut Township Flood Mitigation Project.
– $350,000 to rehabilitate Zeller-Smith covered bridge.
– $300,000 for constructing Fairfield County CDL Training and Testing Lot.
– $250,000 to upgrade Wendel Pool Dehumidification System at Family YMCA of Lancaster and Fairfield County.
– $244,000 for upgrades to Violet Township Performing Arts Center.
– $234,410 to establish Pickerington Connects pathways and walkways.
– $225,000 for replacing Elmwood Playground.
– $150,000 to restore Lancaster Bell and Clock Tower.
– $125,000 supporting Sycamore Creek Park Pond Restoration.
– $100,000 modernizing Expanding Horizons Meals on Wheels Senior Services Center.
“Fairfield County’s future is bright,” stated LaRe. “From workforce to tourism to infrastructure investments, I look forward to seeing these projects transform our communities and greater region.”
Statewide capital investments in this legislation include:
– $600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund
– $400 million for Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program
– $397.6 million for higher education projects
The Strategic Community Investment Fund was established in last year’s main operating budget. Conservative fiscal stewardship enabled these additional funds beyond the traditional capital budget.
Substitute House Bill 2 now awaits the Ohio Governor’s signature.
