Miller Delivers $12.8 Million in Transformative Capital Funding

June 26, 2024

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. Kevin Miller (R-Newark). 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.

Specifically, the Buckeye Lake North Shore Park and Pier will receive $11 million to maintain Ohio’s oldest state park and popular tourist destination. Improvements include updating the public beach, docking area, and adding green space and a boat ramp.

Capital dollars will also be used locally for the following projects:

$300,000 to support the Dawes Arboretum, fostering opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration; and
$65,000 to repair the Crooksville Wade pool, preserving infrastructure for the enjoyment of generations to come.

“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 also secured funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund that will directly serve the 69th House District and the surrounding communities, including:

$1.25 million to expand the Somerset-Reading Twp. Volunteer Fire Department station to better serve the community and increase public safety;
$80,000 to repair the Thornville Seawall, ensuring the longevity of critical water infrastructure;
$66,000 to equip the Mary Ann Twp. with new SCBA equipment, increasing department capacity and public safety;
$52,000 to improve drainage at Hanover Hains Hills Drive, protecting critical infrastructure;
$50,000 to revitalize the Wagnalls Memorial Library, preserving Fairfield County history; and
$5,500 to revitalize the Rushville Union Lions Club’s accessible parking, ensuring safety.

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.