Rep. Miller: State investments key to growing Central Ohio economy, creating jobs

State Rep. Adam Miller (D-Columbus) today announced the House passage of House Bill (HB) 529, the state’s $2.6 billion biennial capital bill. The capital budget is primarily used to fund the upkeep of state facilities, colleges and university campuses and state lands, but also includes a number of community projects that directly impact the West Columbus “Hilltop” neighborhood.  The bill includes more than $110 million to replace the 178 bed Kosar facility at the Hilltop’s Twin Valley Behavioral Healthcare Hospital.

“This budget highlights the priorities important to Ohio and my House District, especially Franklinton, West and South Columbus as well as the Hilltop” said Rep. Miller. “My colleagues and I have put real investment in attacking the opioid crisis, growing the economy and improving human services to the most vulnerable. Government has a tremendous role – and duty – to help the most vulnerable. This bill marks an important step forward.”

Below is a list of highlighted site specific projects from the more than $321 million designated for Franklin County. It does not include grants and other competitive bid programs that Franklin County will be eligible for, including programs for opioid treatment and prevention.

BalletMet                                             $1 million

COSI Connection Corridor                    $5 million

Metro Parks - Quarry Trails                  $500,000

Columbus Zoo                                     $1 million

Heinzerling Community                        $350,000

Alvis                                                    $300,000

Maryhaven                                           $125,000

Franklin Park Conservatory                   $600,000

PAST Foundation                                 $300,000

Freedom A la Cart                                $100,000

Cols. Regional Airport Authority           $2 million

CAPA - Palace Theater Reno                $750,000

Rep. Miller sits on the House Finance Committee, which oversaw the capital budget process. HB 529 passed both the House and Senate and now moves to the governor to be signed into law.