Canton Reporter

The Ohio House of Representatives passed Substitute House Bill 2 on Wednesday, the state’s two-year construction budget for capital projects throughout Ohio. State Representatives Scott Oelslager (R-North Canton), Jim Thomas (R-Jackson Twp.), and Reggie Stoltzfus (R-Paris Twp.) announced the bill, which will allocate over $4.2 billion for capital projects and an additional $717 million in one-time project funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund.

Oelslager, Thomas, and Stoltzfus highlighted specific capital investments totaling $26.11 million that are expected to benefit Stark County and the surrounding region:

- $9.76 million to support the Hall of Fame Village

- $7 million to modernize the Pro Football Hall of Fame

- $3.2 million to expand the Akron-Canton Airport

- Various other allocations aimed at enhancing local infrastructure, education, tourism, and community services

“Ohio is our home, and it is our responsibility to take care of our home,” said Oelslager. “From workforce, to tourism, to education, to infrastructure, I am confident these investments will spur transformational change for generations to come.”

“This wide array of projects will strengthen communities across Stark County,” said Thomas. “Securing these investments will ensure our future remains bright.”

“This funding will enhance all that Stark County has to offer,” added Stoltzfus.

In addition to local investments, the legislation includes statewide capital investments such as:

- $600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund

- $400 million for the Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program

- $397.6 million for higher education projects around Ohio

Substitute House Bill 2 now awaits a signature from the Governor.