Senator Reynolds Secures Millions for District Projects

COLUMBUS—State Senator Michele Reynolds (R-Canal Winchester) announced the investment of millions of dollars from the One-Time Strategic Community Investment Fund (OTSCIF) to support meaningful projects that will benefit our local communities and residents for years to come.

"This new, one-time fund will invest directly into our communities, allowing Central Ohio to continue its trajectory of growth and prosperity," Reynolds said. "The projects receiving funding will truly allow Ohioans so many opportunities to continue leading successful lives, keep our whole region moving forward, and will make our neighborhoods shine brighter than ever before."
 
The following are some of the projects supported by Senator Reynolds that were awarded funding:

John Glenn International Airport Improvements, $7.5 million: This investment will support the construction of a new terminal to ensure our airport continues to be a transportation hub for Central Ohio.

Ohio Center for Advanced Technologies, adding $10 million for a total of $20 million: These funds will support a training facility that will help us meet our workforce needs for the jobs of tomorrow in areas such as semiconductor production, electric vehicle technology, and other advanced manufacturing industries.

OP Chaney Grain Elevator Restoration, adding $1.8 million for a total of $2.8 million: These dollars will help renovate this historic treasure in Canal Winchester into a cultural heritage center for community gatherings.

Columbus Symphony Orchestra-Music For All, adding $8.5 million for a total of $18.5 million: Funds will support the Orchestra's construction of its new home: a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Columbus. 

Westland Mall Renovations, $1,000,000: These dollars will support the first phase of the site's redevelopment, including a roadway surrounding the property connecting Broad Street to Georgesville Road. 

Green Lawn Cemetery Chapel, $750,000: Funds will support the restoration of the primary mausoleum and chapel to its historic nature. 

Heinzerling Facility Improvements, $750,000: These dollars will help fund roof and boiler replacements. 

Tolles Cybersecurity Lab Renovations, $600,000: Funds will support the renovations and expansion of classroom space for the cybersecurity program, especially as it continues to grow. 

Scioto Rise Place, $500,000: These funds will invest in stable housing for 60 people here in Central Ohio, meeting the needs of residents with stability services on-site. 

The Kindness Center at LifeTown, $500,000: Funds will invest in the center's work with students. 
National Center for Urban Solutions Workforce Center, $500,000: Funds will be spent to modernize the facility for the growing needs in Central Ohio. 

Somali Community Link Community Center, $350,000: These dollars will help construct a community center to serve the Somali community and underserved population of immigrants and refugees.

The Refuge, $250,000: These funds will help the organization build a new facility to serve individuals suffering from addiction. 

Edison Welding Institute Renovations, $500,000: Funds will support renovations to create hands-on learning and training modules for students. 

The funding for these projects came from the unique, one-time fund established under the state's current operating budget, House Bill 33, passed by the Ohio General Assembly in June of 2023. 

The OTSCIF set aside $700 million as an additional source of funding allowing communities and organizations to apply for help with projects that might not qualify as part of the state's traditional Capital Budget that happens every two years.

Each chamber developed a plan for $350 million of the total amount while coordinating good faith negotiations to determine projects for the OTSCIF.

The Senate Finance Committee will begin hearings on the bill addressing the OTSCIF funding immediately. Click here for a list of projects and a link highlighting specific projects in senators’ districts. Follow On The Record for additional updates as the Capital Budget advances through the General Assembly.