Rep. Baker Announces Passage of State Capital Budget, Securing Vital Community Investments in Hamilton County

COLUMBUS - State Rep. Rachel Baker (D-Cincinnati) 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. Baker helped secure over $22 million for Hamilton County.

“I’m thrilled to secure these critical capital investments for District 27,” said Rep. Baker. “Funding these projects takes a holistic approach to lifting up our community. Whether that means supporting the behavioral health of our children, confronting food insecurity, creating economic opportunity, honoring our fallen heroes, or upgrading our neighborhood parks, I am proud to bring these dollars home to ensure our district remains a vibrant, supportive place to live and work.”

Approximately $5.4 million will be distributed to the following projects within HD 27:

• Best Point Education and Behavioral Health
• Hillcrest Renovations
• The Farmer Music Center
• Meals on Wheels Headquarters for SW Ohio
• Valley Interfaith Community Resource Center
• Reading Public Recreation Complex improvements
• Ralph J. Ficke Park Upgrades
• Regional Gateway Fallen Officer Memorial in Columbia Township

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