Gavarone Announces $2.1 Billion Investment in Ohio's Communities, Highlights Local Projects
Capital Bill provides economic stimulus, jobs to local communities by funding improvements to Ohio's schools, infrastructure and public services
December 15, 2020
Theresa Gavarone News
COLUMBUS—State Senator Theresa Gavarone (R-Bowling Green) today announced the introduction of the state's capital budget, a $2.1 billion investment in Ohio's schools, infrastructure, public services and local community projects.
The legislature generally approves a capital budget every two years, and the bill funds needed improvements to public services and facilities across the state, including schools, roads and bridges, and mental health and addiction facilities. The budget was introduced today as an amendment to Senate Bill 310.
“Although we have faced serious challenges this year, sound fiscal management of the state’s finances have put us in a position to continue with this bill. It creates tens of thousands of jobs and helps grow our economy," said Gavarone. "These capital investments are an opportunity for communities to strengthen existing infrastructure and invest in vital projects that ultimately make our region a better place to live and work.” LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS
Over $171 million will be used for economic development and cultural projects of local and regional importance to boost growth and increase opportunities throughout the state. Below is a summary of key community project funding in the 2nd district. A full list of community projects can be found here.
The legislature generally approves a capital budget every two years, and the bill funds needed improvements to public services and facilities across the state, including schools, roads and bridges, and mental health and addiction facilities. The budget was introduced today as an amendment to Senate Bill 310.
“Although we have faced serious challenges this year, sound fiscal management of the state’s finances have put us in a position to continue with this bill. It creates tens of thousands of jobs and helps grow our economy," said Gavarone. "These capital investments are an opportunity for communities to strengthen existing infrastructure and invest in vital projects that ultimately make our region a better place to live and work.” LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS
Over $171 million will be used for economic development and cultural projects of local and regional importance to boost growth and increase opportunities throughout the state. Below is a summary of key community project funding in the 2nd district. A full list of community projects can be found here.
- $1 million for Bowling Green State University to be used for a new water quality research facility in Sandusky Bay which will be utilized by the state and Bowling Green State University as part of efforts to preserve the health and vitality of Ohio’s water supplies.
- $800,000 for the Toledo Zoo to be used for interactive educational exhibits.
- $1 million for the construction of the JEEP Museum, creating a new tourist destination in northwestern Ohio.
- $250,000 for repairs and improvements to the Tam-O-Shanter community sports complex in Sylvania.
- $1 million for the Northwood Community Center, which serves people across Wood, Ottawa and Lucas counties.
- $305 million will be invested in local school construction, including repairs, renovations and maintenance for primary and secondary facilities. This is in addition to the $300 million already approved this year by the General Assembly in Senate Bill 4.
- $452 million will be invested in projects supporting Ohio’s 37 public colleges and universities.
- A substantial portion of capital spending goes to local roads, bridges, water-supply systems, storm sewers and wastewater systems, and $280 million will be directed to local infrastructure projects through the Public Works Commission. This is in addition to the $255 million for the Public Works Commission already approved by the General Assembly in Senate Bill 4.
- $253 million for the maintenance and preservation of Ohio’s dams, parks, trails, waterways and wildlife.
- $62.5 million to support the Clean Ohio program which funds preservation of green space, farmland, open spaces and expanded recreational opportunities.
- $18 million to improve the security and efficiency of public agency websites and the MARCS first responder communications system.
- $95.6 million will be invested in critical health and human services funding for mental health and addiction treatment facilities in communities across the state.
- $280.7 million for renovations of state and local prisons.