Cross Delivers $9.7 Million in Funding for Community Projects

COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives this week passed Substitute House Bill 2, which will allocate $350 million in one-time project funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund, announced State Rep. Jon Cross (R-Findlay). 

This one-time funding will be administered to statewide, regional, and local projects. More specifically, Cross secured a record amount of $9.7 million that will directly serve the 83rd House District and the surrounding communities. 

“I will always fight to ensure dollars make their way back to the 83rd House District,” said Cross. “I look forward to seeing the transformative effects of these projects for generations to come.” 

Cross championed several provisions that will positively impact Hancock, Hardin, and Logan Counties:

• $5 million to invest in dredging at Indian Lake, ensuring longevity of critical water infrastructure;
• $1.25 million to construct a new Findlay-Hancock County YMCA facility with an adjoining Early Learning Center for Excellence, uplifting families and children;
• $500,000 to modernize the livestock facilities at the Hancock County Fairgrounds, preserving infrastructure for the enjoyment of generations to come;
• $500,000 to revitalize Ada War Memorial Park, ensuring accessibility and safety;
• $500,000 to expand the ONU HealthWise Mobile Health Clinic, broadening access to healthcare;
• $500,000 to purchase a new fire pump truck, increasing department capacity and public safety;
• $500,000 to modernize the livestock facilities at the Hardin County Fairgrounds, preserving infrastructure for the enjoyment of generations to come.
• $250,000 to upgrade Commercial Driver’s License Training Program Facilities at the Owens State Community College Findlay Campus, investing in the workforce of tomorrow;
• $250,000 to modernize facilities and connect walkways throughout the Hancock County Park District, expanding accessibility to local parks and wildlife programs;
• $200,000 to improve the Veterans Memorial Park pump house irrigation, protecting critical water infrastructure;
• $150,000 to build new pickleball courts at Oldfield Beach on Indian Lake, promoting community recreation and well-being;
• $50,000 to upgrade basketball and pickleball courts at the Hardin County Veterans Memorial Park, fostering opportunities for outdoor recreation; and
• $40,000 to repair outfield and foul line fences at Agler Baseball Field, preserving a community tradition.

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;
• $397.6 million for higher education projects around the state; and
• $250 million for local jail construction across Ohio. 

The Strategic Community Investment Fund was established in the state’s main operating budget passed last year and includes excess funding from the previous fiscal year. Due to conservative fiscal stewardship, the Ohio House was able to dedicate this excess toward projects that will move Ohio forward.

This funding will be incorporated as part of the greater State Capital Budget bill, a two-year construction budget for capital projects.