OHIO — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel, and the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) announced that $8.5 million in state funding has been awarded to improve transportation infrastructure supporting economic development projects across 21 counties.
The funding, awarded through ODOT’s Office of Jobs and Commerce as part of the Transportation Improvement District Program, will support 24 road improvement projects. According to the state, the projects are designed to provide access to developable land, improve access to existing businesses, and reduce traffic congestion around commercial areas.
State officials said the projects are expected to support more than 32,500 jobs and generate more than $2 billion in private-sector capital investment.
“A modern, reliable transportation system is a major catalyst for economic growth and community vitality,” said Governor DeWine. “By directing targeted funding into these local infrastructure projects, we are unlocking billions in private sector investment and supporting tens of thousands of jobs for Ohioans.”
“We’re investing in Ohio’s future when we invest in the roads and infrastructure that connect people to jobs, businesses to customers, and community to opportunity,” said Lt. Governor Tressel. “Great things happen when people have the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
The awarded funding will support both project development and construction activities scheduled for state fiscal year 2027.
“Each of these projects not only brings an economic benefit, but a safety benefit to these communities,” said ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn. “We are proud to play a role in making these improvements that will have a lasting impact.”
The Transportation Improvement District Program was established to encourage collaboration between local governments and private industry while helping accelerate transportation projects that promote economic development. Funding may be used for preliminary engineering, right-of-way acquisition, and construction activities.
