Swearingen, Ohio House Pass Strategic Community Investment Fund

The Ohio House of Representatives today approved the historic Strategic Community Investment Fund, as part of Substitute House Bill 2, announced State Rep. D.J. Swearingen (R-Huron).

The Strategic Community Investment Fund includes $350 million for statewide, regional, and local projects, nearly $6 million of which will be directed toward northern Ohio. The fund was established under the state’s main operating budget passed in 2023 and includes excess funding from the previous fiscal year.

“I hope these investments will enrich the lives of those who call the 89th district home and draw more families to our region,” Swearingen said. “The initiatives also intentionally uplift our current and future workforce, ultimately making northern Ohio the best place to work, live, and raise a family.”

Due to ongoing conservative fiscal stewardship, Swearingen was able to secure the following one-time funding for projects in Erie, Huron, and Ottawa Counties:

• $3 million to build the Landing, providing direct access to the Sandusky Bay and Lake Erie and creating a regional ecotourism destination;
• $1 million to upgrade Battery Park, improving coastal infrastructure on Lake Erie;
• $600,000 to renovate Camp Timberlane, enhancing opportunities for exploration and education outside of the traditional classroom;
• $500,000 to construct the Ottawa County Workforce Hub and Center for Career Advancement, uplifting northeast Ohio’s workforce;
• $250,000 to support the Skills Trades Academy, providing opportunities for students to advance their skills and better serve Ohio communities.
• $202,000 to replace the current scale at the Huron County Transfer Station;
• $200,000 to rehabilitate the Huron Boat Basin and Amphitheater, boosting tourism and creating a space for community engagement; and
• $100,000 to rebuild the Kelleys Island East Lakeshore Shoreline, protecting the water supply of surrounding communities.

In addition to these local investments, the 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.

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