Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jon Husted, and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik announced today more than $52 million in funding to support brownfield remediation and building demolition projects across the state. The funding is provided through the Ohio Brownfield Remediation Program and Building Demolition and Site Revitalization Program, both initiatives created by the DeWine-Husted Administration in collaboration with the Ohio General Assembly to revitalize areas hindered by contamination or dilapidated structures.
The goal of these programs is to spur economic development by clearing properties that have been deemed unusable due to environmental hazards or structural deterioration. This latest round of funding aims to transform vacant and contaminated sites into opportunities for new growth and investment.
Adams County is set to benefit significantly, with the county’s Land Bank being awarded $1,049,792 to support remediation and demolition efforts at multiple sites. The awarded properties include locations across several towns, each identified as a priority for redevelopment:
Manchester: 208 E. Seventh Street & 411 E. Seventh Street
Peebles: 155 Wendall Ave, 1660 Inlow Ave, 29 Frost Ave, 29 Olive Street, & 52 Central Ave
Rome: 108 2nd Street
Seaman: 17605 State Route 247, 17864 Main Street, & 6610 Tri-County Road
West Union: 11592 State Route 41, 1470 Manchester Street, 409 Mulberry Street, 5000 Chaparral Road, 707 Boyd Avenue, & Market & Main Inlot 51
Winchester: 1258 Tri-County Road, 14737 State Route 136, 14753 State Route 136, 2003 Tri-County Road, & 28 West Moore Street
Governor DeWine emphasized the importance of these initiatives in bringing new life to underutilized spaces. “By addressing sites that have been stagnant or potentially harmful, we’re paving the way for safer and more vibrant communities,” he said. Lt. Governor Husted also highlighted the potential economic impact, noting that clearing these properties could attract businesses and create new job opportunities.
The Ohio Brownfield Remediation Program provides grants to assess, clean up, and repurpose contaminated properties, while the Building Demolition and Site Revitalization Program focuses on eliminating vacant and deteriorated structures. Together, these programs help communities across the state by converting eyesores into assets, fostering local development, and enhancing public health and safety.
Local leaders are praising the impact these funds will have on the community. Jenni Hupp, Executive Director of the Adams County Land Bank, expressed optimism, saying, “The funds awarded to the Adams County Land Bank will significantly enhance our ability to tackle the legacy of blight in our community. By removing these structures, we are not only improving the aesthetics of our neighborhoods but also laying the groundwork for new economic development opportunities.”
The Adams County Board of Commissioners also shared their support for the initiative, stating, “This funding is a vital step towards improving the quality of life in Adams County. We are committed to supporting the Land Bank’s efforts to revitalize our community, enhance safety, and create a foundation for future growth.”
Director Mihalik underscored the collaborative efforts that made the funding possible. “This partnership with the General Assembly is a testament to our shared commitment to revitalizing communities and strengthening Ohio’s economy,” she said.
With the demolition and remediation projects set to commence soon, Adams County expects to see substantial progress in clearing these properties for future development. The investment is part of a broader statewide effort to address and redevelop hundreds of properties that currently inhibit economic progress due to their condition or history of contamination. As these projects unfold, the state anticipates significant economic and social benefits, with cleaner environments and renewed opportunities taking shape across Ohio.
