COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio officials announced Friday the state is awarding $135 million in grants to support 90 water infrastructure projects in 64 counties.
It's the fifth round of the Ohio BUILDS (Broadband, Utilities, and Infrastructure for Local Development Success) water infrastructure program, which has provided around $500 million to support more than 300 water projects in the state.
The fifth round is expected to help reduce or eliminate financial burdens that comes with waterline extensions, new pipes and water mains, distribution systems and water tower replacements.
“From the first dollar awarded through this program to now, we’ve made hundreds of transformative investments in the future of our communities,” said Gov. Mike DeWine in a press release. “Having a strong water infrastructure not only safeguards the health and well-being of our residents, but it makes our neighborhoods more resilient and better prepares local leaders for sustainable economic growth.”
The fourth round of grants were awarded in early June. It totaled $114 million in grant awards.
“This additional round of funding will help communities from one corner of the state to the next replace aging, overwhelmed infrastructure, ensuring that Ohioans have access to clean drinking water,” said Lt. Gov. Jon Husted in a press release. “These projects will not only greatly improve the quality of life for residents in these areas, but they also boost economic growth related to business expansion and housing development.”
For more details on Ohio BUILDS, click here.