Licking Today

COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives has passed Substitute House Bill 2, the state’s two-year construction budget for capital projects, announced State Rep. Kevin Miller (R-Newark). 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.

Buckeye Lake North Shore Park and Pier will receive $11 million to maintain Ohio’s oldest state park. Planned improvements include updates to the public beach, docking area, green space additions, and a new boat ramp.

Capital dollars will also support local projects:

- $300,000 for Dawes Arboretum to foster outdoor recreation and exploration.

- $65,000 to repair Crooksville Wade pool, preserving infrastructure for future generations.

“I am pleased to see funding return to the 69th House District,” said Miller. “By investing in public safety, tourism, and infrastructure projects, we are strengthening our communities and setting them up for future success.”

Miller secured additional funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund for the 69th House District and surrounding areas:

- $1.25 million to expand Somerset-Reading Twp. Volunteer Fire Department station.

- $80,000 to repair Thornville Seawall.

- $66,000 for new SCBA equipment in Mary Ann Twp.

- $52,000 to improve drainage at Hanover Hains Hills Drive.

- $50,000 to revitalize Wagnalls Memorial Library.

- $5,500 to revitalize Rushville Union Lions Club’s accessible parking.

Statewide investments 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 across Ohio.

The Strategic Community Investment Fund was established in last year’s main operating budget. Due to conservative fiscal stewardship, the Ohio House was able to invest these funds in additional projects beyond the traditional capital budget.

Substitute House Bill 2 now awaits the Governor's signature.