Schmidt Delivers $3.95 Million in Transformative Capital Funding

COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives today passed Substitute House Bill 2, the state’s two-year construction budget for capital projects throughout the state, announced State Rep. Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland).  The bill will allocate more than $4.2 billion for capital projects in addition to $717 million in one-time project funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund.

Schmidt championed the following investments in local capital projects:

• $248,000 to construct four new pickleball courts at the Miami Riverview Park, promoting community recreation and well-being; and
• $150,000 to build the Dan Beard Skilled Trades Center, investing in Ohio’s future workforce.

“These transformative investments will continue to make Clermont County the best and safest place to work, live, and raise a family,” said Schmidt. “I look forward to seeing the positive effects of this legislation come to fruition throughout our great State.”

Schmidt also secured a record amount of more than $3.5 million in one-time funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund that will directly serve Clermont County and the surrounding communities, including:  

• $2.5 million to help rebuild the Goshen fire station, increasing public safety and accessibility to first responders;
• $400,000 to construct a community center at the Milford Five Points Landing Park, creating space for community engagement and events;
• $268,125 to construct a splash pad in Union Township, establishing a community gathering space for families;
• $250,000 to revitalize the Nisbet Park Amphitheater, boosting local entertainment; and
• $132,000 to renovate the Owensville Historical Society Museum, preserving neighborhood history.  

In addition to these local investments, this legislation also includes additional statewide capital investments of:

• $600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund;
• $400 million for the Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program; and
• $397.6 million for higher education projects around the state.

The Strategic Community Investment Fund was established in the state’s main operating budget passed last year. Due to conservative fiscal stewardship, the Ohio House was able to invest these funds in projects that will move Ohio forward in addition to the traditional capital budget.

Substitute House Bill 2 now heads to the Ohio Governor for a signature.