COLUMBUS — More than $1 million for Ashland County projects was allocated in the state’s capital budget bill, approved by the Ohio House on Wednesday.

State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) voted in support of the bill Wednesday — a two-year capital improvements budget for state and community projects throughout Ohio totaling nearly $4 billion.

The Ohio Senate approved the bill last week with the support of Sen. Mark Romanchuk, whose district includes Ashland County.

The bill provides appropriations for state infrastructure needs, including renovations to state offices, new construction for mental health facilities, land acquisition and equipment.

The plan also includes slightly more than $200 million for community projects, which are projects that come from outside of state agencies and have a benefit or nexus to the state.

The Ohio Capital Budget is traditionally funded through state-issued bonds that provide upfront financing for public infrastructure and community projects. 

The community projects included in the capital bill will be funded through general revenue fund surplus funding, totaling $200 million to fund community projects in lieu of issuing debt. All 88 counties will receive funding for community projects.

Miller helped secure over $3.2 million in investments for community projects in Ashland and Medina counties.

Ashland County community projects include:

• $300,000 for the Loudonville Riverside Park Connector to create a safe, direct route for pedestrians and bicyclists.

• $250,000 for The Ashland Theatre building facade improvements.

• $210,000 for Safe Haven Domestic Violence Shelter security enhancements.

• $175,000 for the Ashland County Park District Freer Field community access improvements.

• $100,000 for the Ashland PumpHouse District Freedom Park and street improvements.

“One of the most rewarding parts of serving as state representative is working alongside local leaders to bring resources back home,” Miller said. “These capital budget investments are the result of strong partnerships and a shared vision for Ashland and Medina counties.

“By investing in our communities today, we are creating opportunities and improving quality of life for families for years to come.”

Through this bill, the Ohio House prioritized investing in Ohio’s future by expanding access to education and healthcare through new facilities or upgrades to existing ones, improving parks and roadways to better connect communities and strengthening local facilities across the state by providing necessary funding for enhancements.

This bill now heads to the governor for consideration.