Congressman Taylor Secures $17 Million for Ohio Community Projects in FY26 Funding
A significant investment of nearly $17 million in federal funding has been secured for 13 community-driven projects across Ohio’s Second Congressional District, promising vital improvements to infrastructure, emergency services, and quality of life for residents. These investments, approved through Congress’s annual appropriations process, will deliver crucial resources to local communities during Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) via the Community Project Funding process.
The funding represents a collaborative effort, developed in close partnership with local leaders, elected officials, first responders, and community stakeholders. “When I took the oath of office, I promised to advocate for the needs of Ohioans who have had to make do with far too little for far too long,” said Congressman Dave Taylor. “Each of these 13 local projects is a result of year-long conversations I’ve had with local leaders, law enforcement, first responders, and service organizations about where the greatest impact of federal dollars could be made. I look forward to seeing how these projects will improve the quality of life for Ohioans, and I will continue working with local partners to deliver meaningful results to our communities.”
Strengthening Emergency Response and Public Safety
A substantial portion of the funding is dedicated to bolstering emergency response capabilities and public safety across the district. Adena Health will receive $750,000 to expand its EMS transport capacity, adding two fully equipped ambulances to its fleet at Adena Regional Medical Center (ARMC). These new vehicles will be equipped with advanced medical equipment, communication tools, and safety features to support critical inter-facility transfers, patient discharges, and urgent non-emergency transport needs.
Meanwhile, the City of Wellston Police Department is set to receive a combined $2,200,000 to upgrade its outdated radio systems to MARCS-compatible digital technology. This upgrade, encompassing both portable and mobile radios for all officers, will ensure seamless communication with neighboring law enforcement, emergency medical services, and fire departments, bridging a critical funding gap and enhancing officer safety.
Further enhancing public safety, the Clermont County Coroner’s Office will benefit from $400,800 to modernize its forensics lab. This investment will enable rapid response to crime scenes, advanced data extraction from mobile devices, and comprehensive surveillance footage analysis. Integration with the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network will also increase the likelihood of solving cases and preventing future violence, supporting 15 local law enforcement agencies and related units.
Investing in Critical Infrastructure
Recognizing the importance of robust infrastructure, a significant portion of the funding is allocated to water and wastewater projects. The Brown County Rural Water Association will receive $2,000,000 to construct a 2-million-gallon water tower, providing a safe and ample water supply to over 30,000 residents daily. Similarly, the City of Logan will receive $1,250,000 to update its water treatment plant and replace an existing water tower with a larger 500,000-gallon capacity structure, addressing growth and ensuring water quality for its approximately 7,200 residents, and the increased population during peak tourism seasons.
The Village of McArthur will receive $1,000,000 to replace aging and undersized waterlines, valves, and fire hydrants, improving water quality, service reliability, and fire protection. The Village of Williamsburg will receive $1,000,000 to extend its sewer system to accommodate new development on 143 acres of recently annexed land. The Village of Winchester will receive $1,250,000 to expand and modernize its regional water treatment plant, addressing EPA compliance issues and supporting a new 55-acre industrial park. The Clinton County Board of Commissioners will receive $949,566 to continue planning for a new regional wastewater treatment plant, spurring economic development throughout the region.
Supporting Healthcare and Economic Development
Beyond emergency services and infrastructure, the funding also supports healthcare modernization and economic growth. Holzer Health System will receive $999,000 to modernize its pathology lab, combining hospital laboratory services with Anatomic Pathology and Microbiology, enhancing diagnostic capabilities.
Finally, $4,000,000 will go to the Pickaway County Port Authority for the construction of a roundabout at the intersection of State Route 762 and Rickenbacker Parkway, addressing congestion related to economic development and improving safety for motorists and pedestrians. The City of Ironton will receive $1,000,000 to construct an access road to the riverfront, fostering economic development, tourism, and recreational opportunities.
These investments represent a significant commitment to the future of Ohio’s Second Congressional District, promising tangible improvements to the lives of its residents and laying the foundation for continued growth and prosperity.
