by John Beagle

According to the Ohio Department of Development, the Clean Ohio Council, met to award the remaining $1.8 million from the Clean Ohio Revitalization Fund Round 4 Cycle.

In July, the Clean Ohio Council, which Ohio Lt. Governor Fisher chairs, awarded $41 million for brownfield revitalization projects in 13 Ohio communities. The additional award to Butler County Port Authority will close the Round 4 Funding Cycle, resulting in a total investment of $43 million to 16 projects.

Photo: Lt. Governor Fisher

"The ability to transform blighted and abandoned properties into productive use is an economic development tool that helps create safe and vibrant communities," said Lt. Governor Fisher, who also serves as Director of the Ohio Department of Development. "These funds awarded today by the Clean Ohio Council will serve as a catalyst for continued growth and success for Middletown and Butler County residents."

The Butler County Port Authority will use the funds for the demolition and remediation activities on vacant structures located within the old Middletown Regional Hospital.

Upon completion it is proposed that 46-70 market rate housing units will be constructed to complement the surrounding neighborhood.