by JD Davidson
Ohio plans to give another $175 million in taxpayer money to communities around the state to clean up contaminated properties and get them ready for use again.
The new money adds to the $350 million the state handed out for 313 projects in 83 counties earlier this year. Gov. Mike DeWine says it gives sites a second chance at life.
“Many of the brownfield properties in Ohio once played an important role in the industries that shaped our great state’s legacy of innovation,” DeWine said. “By supporting more of our communities through this transformative program, we’re giving these sites a second chance and clearing a path for Ohio’s next great economic success story.”
The program began in 2021 to help local communities clean up former industrial, commercial and institutional brownfield sites that are abandoned, idled or underutilized because of known or potential release of hazardous substances or petroleum.
“Reviving brownfield sites isn’t just about clearing the past, it’s about sculpting a promising future,” Lt. Gov. Jon Husted said. “Cleaning these sites opens up residential, commercial, and industrial locations that are already connected to the necessary infrastructure to redevelop. This unlocks the potential for vibrant communities, breathing new life into forgotten grounds to become a place where history greets innovation.”
The new money comes from the General Assembly and its 2023-25 budget passed in June. Communities can apply for the funds through April 1.
“Brownfield cleanup can be very expensive, making it challenging for many of our communities to complete,” Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik said. “Thanks to the support of Gov. DeWine and Lt. Gov. Husted, and our partners in the Ohio General Assembly, we’re ready to empower more of our local partners in turning these eyesores into new businesses, housing, and hubs for future growth.”
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JD Davidson is a regional editor at The Center Square.
Photo “Brownfield” by Ohio Redevelopment Projects CC2.0.
