State Representative Bob Cupp (R-Lima) and State Senator Matt Huffman (R-Lima) have announced the introduction of the state's Capital Budget, which invests $2.62 billion statewide, including $500,000 in funding for projects specific to Allen County.
 
The legislature generally approves a capital budget every two years with the goal of funding needed improvements to public services and facilities across the state, including schools, roads and bridges, waterways and parks.

The companion bills introduced in both the Ohio House (HB 529) and Ohio Senate (SB 266) also increase the capital investment in mental health and addiction services facilities.
 
Local projects include:
· $200,000 to repurpose vacant land, including demolishing buildings and environmental cleanup, for future use of the Ohio Department of Transportation and Allen County Engineer
· $200,000 for Cornerstone of Hope to increase mental health care in Lima
· $100,000 for upgrades to the Allen County Jail
 
Statewide, the capital budget invests $600 million in school construction, including repairs, renovations and maintenance, as well as $483 million for projects supporting Ohio’s 37 public colleges and universities.
 
It also features $514 million to repair roads, bridges, water-supply systems and storm sewers. This includes $100 million to support the Clean Ohio program, which funds the preservation of green space, farmland, open spaces and expanded recreational opportunities.
 
Among other funding contained in the legislation is nearly $222 million for critical health and human services funding for youth services, developmental disabilities, mental health, addiction treatment and women’s health initiatives.
 
Hearings on House Bill 529 and Senate Bill 266 have been scheduled this week, and the House version is expected to be voted on as early as Tuesday, March 7.
 
For more information, visit http://www.obm.ohio.gov/budget/capital/ .