Columbus, Ohio – Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Development have announced more than $9 million in grants that will help create new workforce housing across five counties. State leaders say the investment will support communities facing increasing demand for housing as new businesses, factories, and major economic projects continue to expand across the state.
The funding comes through the Residential Economic Development District program, commonly known as REDD. This initiative was designed to help communities build housing near large economic development projects so workers can live close to where new jobs are being created. The program made up to $10 million in grant funding available during the current fiscal year and is expected to provide about $15 million more during fiscal year 2027.
Governor DeWine said the investment is meant to ensure that economic growth benefits the people who are helping drive that success. “As our economy grows and more opportunities are created across the state, investing in workforce housing ensures that the people powering Ohio’s success can live and thrive in the communities they serve,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “The investments Ohio is making through the REDD program will help more hard-working families put down roots and build brighter futures.”
Lt. Governor Jim Tressel also emphasized the connection between economic growth and housing demand. “Ohio’s economic momentum is creating opportunities in communities all across our state. That growth brings the need for more housing to ensure people have a place to call home,” said Lt. Governor Jim Tressel. “Programs like this help ensure our communities are prepared to meet the moment and create the housing needed to support this incredible growth.”
Major Housing Projects Planned Across Five Communities
The new funding will support housing projects in Butler, Fairfield, Mahoning, Paulding, and Trumbull counties, where communities are preparing for future growth tied to major employers and regional investments.
The City of Hamilton in Butler County will receive a $2.5 million grant to help create 100 new workforce housing units through the city’s Build Back the Block initiative. The funding will allow the city to connect new homes on 100 infill lots to existing water and sanitary sewer systems. Hamilton currently owns more than 250 residential parcels ready for redevelopment, and the project will help bring long-vacant land back into use. Construction is expected to begin soon, with the first 10 homes anticipated in 2026. Once completed, the homes will be sold below construction cost to low- and moderate-income families. The project is intended to support housing demand created by investments from the Amazon.com facility in Monroe and other regional economic projects.
The City of Lancaster in Fairfield County will receive a $1 million grant to support a much larger housing development expected to create 361 workforce housing units. The funding will help pay for new water and sewer lines, road construction, sidewalks, and other public infrastructure needed to support a mixed housing project that will include single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. Lancaster officials say the project builds on about $70 million in private development investment already underway. The housing effort also supports workforce needs tied to investments from Anduril and other regional employers.
In Mahoning County, the City of Youngstown will receive a $2.5 million grant to support the construction of up to 220 workforce housing units through an infill housing initiative. Funding will improve roads, sidewalks, lighting, and public infrastructure while connecting new homes to existing water and sewer systems. Many homes will be built on vacant properties owned by the city and the Mahoning County Land Bank. Buyers will receive a 100 percent property tax abatement for 15 years and may qualify for down payment assistance through the city’s At Home program. The project involves partnerships with the Youngstown Neighborhood Development Corporation, Mercy Health Youngstown, and other local organizations. It also supports housing demand related to investments from the Ultium Cells facility in Warren.
The Village of Antwerp in Paulding County will receive a $2.3 million grant to support the development of 345 workforce housing units. The funding will help build new roads, drainage systems, sewer lines, and water infrastructure to support a high-density residential development. Antwerp has already established a Priority Workforce Housing District and removed development fees to encourage new construction. The housing will include single-family homes, duplexes, and multifamily units. This effort supports housing demand created by investments from First Quality Tissue in nearby Defiance.
Meanwhile, the City of Warren in Trumbull County will receive an $851,000 grant to support the Peninsula Project, which is expected to create 306 new housing units including apartments and townhomes. Funding will modernize water and sewer systems and upgrade nearby infrastructure to allow higher-density housing development. Some units will be aimed at essential workers earning at or below 80 percent of the area’s median income. The project supports housing demand connected to investments from Ultium Cells and other employers.
State leaders say the program has generated strong interest from communities across Ohio. “The overwhelming demand we’re seeing for this funding sends a clear message: Ohio’s communities believe in our economic momentum,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development. “Our local partners see the success stories taking shape in their backyards, and their response reflects a shared confidence in Ohio’s future, and a relentless determination to ensure they’re part of it.”
The REDD program was created through House Bill 96, the state’s biennial budget legislation introduced by Senator Michele Reynolds and supported by Minority House Leader Dani Isaacsohn and Representative Adam Mathews.
“Workforce housing is essential to sustaining Ohio’s economic momentum,” said Sen. Reynolds. “As our state attracts new businesses and creates new jobs, we must ensure that the people who power our communities—teachers, healthcare workers, first responders, and skilled tradespeople—have access to quality, affordable housing near where they work. I was proud to champion the creation of the REDD program in the state budget because it helps communities prepare for growth and ensures that economic development benefits the people who call Ohio home.”
Officials say the need for new housing is clear. The Department of Development received 48 eligible applications during this round of funding, with communities requesting nearly $99 million in total support. The program was designed for local governments located within 20 miles of major economic development projects, allowing them to apply for funding that supports housing infrastructure, community services, or new residential development. State leaders believe the investment will help ensure that Ohio’s economic growth is matched by strong communities where workers can afford to live close to their jobs.
