State Rep. Bob Peterson (R-Washington Court House) recently announced the approval of funding for a renovation project at the Fayette County Rest Area.

The funding was approved by the State of Ohio Controlling Board. Peterson spoke about the project.

“Every so often, we have to work to improve facilities across Ohio, especially when they pertain to safety and operation. With the economic growth in Jeffersonville at the mega-site, this is a necessary improvement to our community,” he said.

Honda is building a $3.5 billion joint-venture electric vehicle battery factory at the Fayette County mega-site at I-71/US 435 that is expected to create 2,200 jobs. Construction on the plant is set to begin early this year, with anticipated completion set for the end of 2024. Mass-production of battery modules is expected to begin by the end of 2025.

As for the rest area, the renovations will include demolition of existing rest area buildings and auxiliary building and removal/repairs or reconfiguration of existing sidewalks. It also includes hazmat testing for building demolition and coordination of parking lot improvements as needed. The project will also evaluate sewage treatment plants and water wells for upgrade or connections to public utility systems.

The Fayette County Rest Area will receive $775,928 to make these renovations through the Ohio Department of Transportation.

The rest area is located just off Interstate 71 between Octa and Jeffersonville. The next Ohio State Controlling Board meeting is scheduled to be held on Feb. 6.

Peterson is serving his first term in the Ohio House of Representatives. He represents the 91st Ohio House district, serving residents in all of Fayette, Highland and Pike counties and western Ross County.