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

COLUMBUS -  State Rep. Cecil Thomas (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. Thomas helped secure $22,033,800 for Hamilton County

“Thanks to the bipartisan efforts of the Southwest Ohio Delegation, this funding will support impactful projects that strengthen Hamilton County and our region,” said Rep. Thomas. “Senate Bill 450 delivers critical investments to our universities, healthcare institutions, and community assets. I am proud to support this bipartisan legislation that will expand opportunities in education, improve access to healthcare, and enhance quality of life for residents across Southwest Ohio.”

 Approximately $2,200,000 will be distributed to the following projects within HD 25:

• $250,000 to Xavier University's Center for Community Health
• $150,000 to The Avondale Boys & Girls Club
• $600,000 to The Cincinnati Zoo's giraffe habitat
• $200,000 to Keep Cincinnati Beautiful Pocket Parks Initiative
• $750,000 to The Uptown Innovation District Food Hall and Kitchen
• $250,000 to the Buddy LaRosa Center for Youth

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