MANSFIELD – Three major projects in Richland County are moving forward thanks to more than $1 million in funding from the state of Ohio.
Ohio Sen. President Larry Obhof introduced the state’s Capital Budget at the end of February, a $2.62 billion investment in Ohio’s infrastructure and local community projects.
The goal of the budget is funding needed improvements to public services and facilities across the state, including schools, roads and bridges, waterways and parks.
“The capital budget plays a major role in helping communities throughout the state, and we are able to make these investments because of responsible management of the state’s finances,” Obhof said.
The biggest chunk of funding going to Richland County is $750,000 for an addition to the Mansfield Art Center to support an art education partnership with Mansfield City Schools. George Whitten, executive director of the Mansfield Art Center, said the Center has a major expansion being planned and will announce more details this summer.
“We are most grateful to Rep. Mark Romanchuk and Ohio Sen. President Larry Obhof for their support of the arts via the Ohio facilities grant,” Whitten said.
The Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, a major tourist attraction and local business driver, will receive $200,000 to upgrade its fire suppression system.
In addition, $90,000 is slated for the renovation of a historic greenhouse at the Raemelton Therapeutic Equestrian Center for use with those who have disabilities and at-risk children.
“What we’re seeking to do there is put in a kitchen so that we can cater our own events and cater other events that we might lease the venue out for,” said Tammie Schluter, president of Raemelton’s Board of Trustees. “Also, the kitchen will be used to teach individuals with disabilities proper food preparation and eating habits.”
Other major local projects receiving funding include $60,000 for structural improvements to the Mary Fate Park and Pool in Plymouth; $25,000 for ballpark lighting improvements in Crestline; and $12,000 for improvements to the Firestone Park in Shiloh.
