Rep. Mohamed Announces Passage of State Capital Budget, Securing Vital Community Investments in Franklin County

COLUMBUS - State Rep. Ismail Mohamed (D-Columbus) today announced the passage of Senate Bill 450, the state's biennial capital appropriations budget. The bill allocates nearly $4B for the maintenance, renovation, and construction of state-owned infrastructure, including colleges, universities, school districts, and other community projects.

The capital budget is the mechanism by which the state funds its brick-and-mortar needs. This ranges from the construction and renovation of K-12 public schools and higher education facilities to public works programs and mental health treatment centers, as well as funding local community projects. It includes funding for projects that expand access to healthcare, strengthen local economies, preserve cultural institutions, improve public infrastructure, and enhance quality of life for residents across the region.

Rep. Mohamed helped secure $320,285,159 for Franklin County.

Approximately $750,000 will be distributed to Community Housing Network Deer Hill Place in House District 3.

"Every Ohioan deserves access to safe, stable housing and the opportunity to thrive in their community," said Rep. Mohamed. "This investment in Deer Hill Place reflects our commitment to addressing homelessness, expanding access to supportive services, and ensuring some of our most vulnerable residents have a place to call home."

Deer Hill Place will provide 60 one-bedroom units of permanent supportive housing for individuals experiencing homelessness who are living with mental illness or substance use disorder. The development will prioritize residents who meet the State of Ohio's Permanent Supportive Housing Policy Framework, with 80 percent of units reserved for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness and the remaining units serving individuals with mental health disabilities who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

"Permanent supportive housing is one of the most effective tools we have to combat chronic homelessness and promote long-term stability," Rep. Mohamed added. "This project will connect residents with housing, services, and support while helping address a critical need in our community."

SB 450 now heads to the governor's desk for his signature.