Local Landmarks Receive State Funds

Representative Jeff LaRe successfully advocated for more than $19.7 million of capital funding to be earmarked for local restoration projects.

The OP Chaney Grain Elevator in Canal Winchester (built in 1880) will be repurposed into a cultural heritage event center. On Saturdays in the summer from 9 am to noon, the grassy area beside the elevator hosts the Canal Winchester Farmers’ Market (10 West Oak Street). Photo by Rachel Scofield

June 26, 2024
From the office of Ohio State Rep. Jeff LaRe

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 Vice Chairman of the House Finance Committee, State Rep. Jeff LaRe (R-Violet Twp.).  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.

LaRe championed the following investments, totaling $19,778,410, that will directly serve the 73rd House District and the greater region:

  • $11 million to revitalize the Buckeye Lake North Shore Park and Pier, maintaining Ohio’s oldest state park and popular tourist destination;
  • $2.8 million to repurpose the OP Chaney Grain Elevator into a cultural heritage event center, preserving community history for generations to come;
  • $2 million to purchase and renovate the Fairfield County Government Services Building, delivering helpful resources to residents of the county;
  • $1 million to renovate the Violet Township Event Center, boosting the entertainment industry;
  • $1 million to support the Walnut Township Flood Mitigation Project, reinforcing local water infrastructure;
The state has budgeted $350,000 to rehabilitate the Zeller-Smith Covered Bridge built in 1906. In 1986, the bridge was moved from Busey Road to its current location in Sycamore Creek Park. Photo by Rachel Scofield
  • $350,000 rehabilitate the Zeller-Smith covered bridge, ensuring public safety and maintaining a historic local landmark;
  • $300,000 to construct the Fairfield County CDL Training and Testing Lot, directly addressing Ohio’s demand for commercial drivers;
  • $250,000 to upgrade the Wendel Pool Dehumidification System at the Family YMCA of Lancaster and Fairfield County, providing opportunities for kids and families to engage in community programs;
  • $244,000 to complete upgrades to the Violet Township Performing Arts Center, elevating the local arts;
  • $234,410 to establish Pickerington Connects and develop new pathways and walkways, promoting outdoor recreation and connecting businesses; 
  • $225,000 to replace the Elmwood Playground, establishing a neighborhood gathering place and fostering fun;
  • $150,000 to restore the Lancaster Bell and Clock Tower, investing in downtown preservation;
  • $125,000 to support the Sycamore Creek Park Pond Restoration, preserving the infrastructure and natural beauty of the area; and
  • $100,000 to modernize the Expanding Horizons Meals on Wheels Senior Services Center, ensuring Ohio seniors receive the care and support they deserve.

“Fairfield County’s future is bright,” said LaRe. “From workforce to tourism to infrastructure investments, I look forward to the seeing these projects transform our communities and greater region.”

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

 

Funds were allocated to both the Event Center and the Community Theater at the Violet Township Wigwam. Photo by Rachel Scofield
  • $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.