Columbus, Ohio – Governor Mike DeWine, along with Lt. Governor Jon Husted and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik, recently announced a significant funding of nearly $50 million in grants aimed at the remediation of brownfields and demolition of derelict buildings throughout Ohio. This funding allocation underscores the state’s ongoing commitment to revitalizing spaces burdened by contamination or decay, fostering new economic growth and community development.
Transforming Neglect into Opportunity
This recent financial boost marks the fifth round of funding under the Ohio Brownfield Remediation Program and the Building Demolition and Site Revitalization Program. Both initiatives are key components of the DeWine-Husted Administration’s strategy, developed in collaboration with the Ohio General Assembly, to transform neglected sites into thriving hubs of activity and opportunity.
Governor DeWine emphasized the transformative nature of these programs, stating, “By investing in these sites, we’re giving these areas a fresh start. We developed these programs to turn areas of neglect into places of hope and opportunity for businesses and families alike.”
Similarly, Lt. Governor Husted highlighted the dual benefit of these projects, which not only remove eyesores but also pave the way for future development: “By removing the physical remnants of decline, these projects make room for growth, revitalizing neighborhoods and attracting investment that boosts local economies.”
Significant Projects and Impact
The latest round of the Ohio Brownfield Remediation grants allocates $16.2 million to address hazards at 52 sites across 31 counties. One notable project includes the cleanup and demolition of the historic Fredericksburg School in Wayne County, paving the way for the construction of a new fire department. This initiative alone illustrates how remediation efforts can repurpose valuable land for critical community services.
The Ohio Demolition and Site Revitalization grants, totaling $33.1 million, will aid in the demolition of 341 buildings in five counties. A significant project under this grant is the demolition of the Reeves Building in Warren. Removing this long-standing public safety hazard will clear the path for new business opportunities in downtown Warren, highlighting the program’s role in catalyzing economic development.
Comprehensive Statewide Impact
Since their inception, these programs have dramatically reshaped Ohio’s landscape:
- The Ohio Brownfield Remediation Program has distributed nearly $470 million, supporting the cleanup of 426 sites in 84 counties.
- The Ohio Demolition and Site Revitalization Program has facilitated over 5,000 demolitions with more than $233 million in funding, impacting every county in the state.
Director Mihalik reflected on the broader implications of these efforts: “With every project, we are reclaiming Ohio’s rich history and reimagining it for a brighter future. It’s about more than just cleanup; it’s about renewal – inspiring innovation, attracting business, and building stronger communities.”
These initiatives are part of the broader Ohio BUILDS Initiative, which focuses on enhancing quality of life through various targeted solutions, including water infrastructure improvements, broadband expansion, and the revitalization of brownfields and blighted buildings. Through these concerted efforts, Ohio continues to demonstrate its dedication to creating a sustainable and prosperous future for all its residents.
