COLUMBUS — Washington Court House is one of 76 communities receiving state grants to address critical water and wastewater infrastructure projects. In total, 59 counties will receive $122.7 million, according to a news release.
The city will receive $5 million in state funding for upgrades and improvements to the wastewater treatment plant.
The funding is part of the sixth round of the Ohio BUILDS (Broadband, Utilities, and Infrastructure for Local Development Success) Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Grant Program. Funding will provide $84.5 million in support of 43 new critical infrastructure projects and $38.2 million in gap funding for 33 previously funded projects with costs that exceeded initial estimates.
“The investments we’ve made through this program have been transformational in many Ohio communities,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “The projects we’re funding are about more than new pipes – they’re about protecting the health and well-being of Ohioans across the state.”
The grants announced will help reduce or eliminate the financial burden community leaders face in addressing critical infrastructure needs such as new water distribution systems, waterline extensions, water tower replacements, and new pipes and water mains, according to the release. Grants will also fund projects to replace sanitary sewer systems, prevent sewer system backups, and extend sewer lines to support economic growth.
“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,” said Lt. Jon Governor Husted. “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.”
“Whenever I travel the state, I’m inevitably greeted by Ohioans who share the transformative impact water/wastewater projects have had on their communities,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development. “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.”
The program received 703 grant applications for this round, requesting more than $1.4 billion in funding, demonstrating the continued need for water infrastructure improvements across the state.
“The project is great for our community and Washington Court House is deeply thankful for the opportunity the State of Ohio has made a reality,” said Washington C.H. City Manager Joe Denen.
In addition to water infrastructure upgrades, Ohio BUILDS strategically invests in a broad range of projects to improve quality of life and support economic growth, such as broadband expansion, brownfield redevelopment, the demolition of blighted buildings, and more, according to the release.
