(The Center Square) – While lawmakers will likely debate Ohio’s general fund budget for the next several months, an $11.48 billion, two-year transportation budget is all but settled.
The only thing left is Gov. Mike DeWine’s signature to make the spending plan law. It unanimously passed the Senate and House of Representatives.
“The Transportation Budget is a critical investment into the future of our state,” said Rep. Bob Peterson, R-Sabina. “This funding will uplift our workforce through job creation and improve the transportation infrastructure Ohioans utilize every day.”
The plan does not include an increase in gas or diesel tax and keeps voter registration at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles but requires proof of U.S. Citizenship.
It also includes $18 million over the two-year period for local infrastructure, a provision allowing the state to help smaller communities clear snow from roadways and another $15 million for emergency pavement repair for potholes.
“Here at home, the normal spring thaw brings more than the common pothole,” Sen. Brian Chavez, R-Marietta, said. “Drivers often see the pavement cracking and falling away from hillside erosion or being damaged from falling boulders. This program is key to keeping our roads safe for residents and those we share the roads with, from the school bus driver to the truck driver.”
Among other things, the budget also:
• Continues funding for the Ohio Workforce Mobility Partnership program ($13.5 million per fiscal year).
• Continues the Systemic Safety Program, which awards funding for projects that reduce pedestrian-related crashes.
• Commits an additional $2.56 million each fiscal year for maintenance of roads within the boundaries of metropolitan parks.
• Distribute gas tax revenues to municipalities, townships and counties.
• Continue funding commitments to the Brent Spence Bridge.
• Maintain funding requested by the Transportation Department to expand access to truck parking in Ohio allow the department to remove abandoned telecommunication or utility lines.
• Removes a requirement that a contractor indemnify a railroad company against any damage that may result from contractor negligence in improving a grade separation.
• Earmarks $3 million for regional transportation planning organizations.
• Authorizes a school district, a chartered nonpublic school, or a community school to own and operate or contract with a vendor that supplies a motor vehicle originally manufactured and designed to transport up to 12 passengers, including the driver, for regular student transportation.
“This transportation budget is a win for Ohioans,” said Sen. Casey Weinstein, D-Hudson. “By investing $11.5 billion into our infrastructure, including critical funding for roads, bridges, airports, and railways, we are setting our state up for long-term success. It’s essential that we continue supporting our local communities, and this budget delivers by funding public transportation, safety programs, and vital infrastructure projects that will improve the quality of life for Ohioans.”
