By 1812Blockhouse
The 2022 Ohio Capital Bill, passed by overwhelming margins in both the Ohio House and Senate, means that several proposed Richland County projects are receiving funding.
The measure includes the state’s two year $3.5 billion construction budget that includes statewide initiatives, business and industry incentives, and local projects advanced by lawmakers.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said of the bill, “I thank the General Assembly for their partnership in supporting these important projects across Ohio which will make a tremendous impact and continue job growth in our state. House Bill 687 also creates a significant and historic investment into our state parks, which are true gems which can be enjoyed by all Ohioans and those who support our tourism industry.”
Over $5 million is headed to Richland County. Funded projects include:
- Ohio Bird Sanctuary – $600,000 granted to build a new overlook with ADA ramps as well as heating and cooling improvements to the classrooms
- Mansfield Regional Behavioral Center – $400,000 granted to construct a 9,000 square foot behavioral health center providing mental illness treatment
- Plymouth Mary Fate Park – $25,000 granted to install pickle ball courts and a basketball court
- Richland County Agricultural Society Show Arena – $200,000 granted to build a 9,200 square foot arena with seating, two show rings, restrooms, livestock sales offices, and improved accessibility
- Village of Bellville Historic Bandstand Renovations– $100,000 granted to revitalize decaying lumber on the bandstand
- Mansfield B&O Trail Connector = $150,000 granted to extend the trail west to connect to the Trimble Road trail at Raemelton Boulevard adjacent to Akron Children’s Hospital
- Mansfield Sterkel Park – $100,000 granted to build an ADA compliant playground
- Mansfield Art Center Pavilion – $50,000 granted to make general improvements to the facility
- Historic Ohio State Reformatory Tour Site Upgrade and Expansion – $150,000 granted to upgrade the facility to sustain larger scale events
- Mansfield Central Park – $150,000 granted to upgrade park grounds and facilities
- Ohio State University Mansfield – $1.7 million granted to update elevators, make roof and HVAC improvements and improve bike and pedestrian safety
- North Central State College – $1.7 granted to complete some basic building renovations as well as upgrade the IT systems on campus and complete numerous infrastructure advancements
Source: House Bill 687; Office of Representative Marilyn John Press Release
