By 1812Blockhouse
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jon Husted, and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik recently announced a substantial $122.7 million grant to enhance water infrastructure across 59 counties. Among the beneficiaries of this sixth round of the Ohio BUILDS (Broadband, Utilities, and Infrastructure for Local Development Success) Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Grant Program is the Village of Shiloh.
The Impact of Ohio BUILDS
The Ohio BUILDS program, since its inception in 2021, has allocated nearly $620 million to water infrastructure projects across all 88 counties in Ohio. The current round of funding provides $84.5 million for 43 new critical infrastructure projects and an additional $38.2 million in gap funding for 33 previously funded projects that faced cost overruns.
Governor DeWine emphasized the program’s significance: “The investments we’ve made through this program have been transformational in many Ohio communities. The projects we’re funding are about more than new pipes – they’re about protecting the health and wellbeing of Ohioans across the state.”
Reducing Financial Burdens and Supporting Growth
The newly announced grants aim to alleviate the financial burden on community leaders as they tackle essential infrastructure needs. This includes projects like new water distribution systems, waterline extensions, water tower replacements, and new pipes and water mains. Additionally, the funds will support the replacement of sanitary sewer systems, prevent sewer backups, and extend sewer lines to foster economic growth.
Lt. Governor Husted highlighted the broader impact of these investments: “Investments in our communities’ infrastructure are key to expanding sites for new businesses and housing that the people who work at these businesses will need to live and thrive. This program is a key part of our efforts to ensure every community has the foundation in place to improve the quality of life to make Ohio a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”
The Village of Shiloh’s Project
One of the recipients, the Village of Shiloh in Richland County, will receive a $500,000 grant to overhaul its water infrastructure. This project will improve waterlines, upgrade meters, and demolish an outdated local water tower. Shiloh’s water system has been plagued by rusty connections, frequent breaks, excessive water shutoffs, and boil advisories. The current system’s deficiencies result in constant repairs and over-reliance on neighboring villages for manpower.
The new funding aims to rectify these issues, benefiting approximately 650 residents in the village. Director Mihalik noted the ongoing need for such projects: “Whenever I travel the state, I’m inevitably greeted by Ohioans who share the transformative impact water/wastewater projects have had on their communities. But our work is far from over, and thanks to Governor DeWine, Lt. Governor Husted, and our partners in the Ohio General Assembly, we have the opportunity to create sustainable solutions in even more parts of the state.”
Sustained Support and Future Prospects
The latest round of funding was made possible through the continued support from the Ohio General Assembly in the current operating budget. The Department of Development, which administers the program, received 703 applications for this round, indicating a robust demand for water infrastructure improvements across Ohio. The current allocation underscores the state’s commitment to addressing these critical needs.
The transformative nature of these grants promises to enhance the quality of life for many Ohioans. As Shiloh embarks on this crucial infrastructure project, the village’s residents can look forward to a more reliable and efficient water system, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being and growth of the community.
