May 29 – Columbus – As the first 100 days of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act conclude, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) reports it has awarded contracts for the first 17 transportation infrastructure projects in Ohio funded through the federal stimulus. This means construction companies will begin mobilizing workers for these jobs.
These first 17 projects — a combination of interstate, local roadway and bridge modernization projects — represent an estimated investment of $16.5 million in stimulus funds. The projects are:
Work on these projects could begin as early as next month. All companies awarded ODOT contracts funded by Recovery Act resources are required to post any new job opportunities at www.OhioMeansJobs.com, an online source to match job seekers with employment openings across the state.
In addition, five airport projects in Ohio are receiving $29.2 million in stimulus funds through the Federal Aviation Administration. These projects — at both commercial service and general aviation airports — include:
ODOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) continue to move infrastructure projects closer to the construction phase. To date, FHWA has authorized more than $159.8 million in stimulus investments, including strategic projects at Ohio's water port and along its railroads. An additional $159.7 million in projects have been submitted for authorization by FHWA in the next several weeks.
Under ARRA requirements, ODOT must have authorized approximately $327.5 million of its $774 million stimulus allocation by June 29, 2009. The remaining amount must be authorized by March 1, 2010. States that meet these timeline requirements can compete for additional money lost by other states that fail to meet these deadlines.
A complete list of the transportation infrastructure projects prioritized for stimulus funding — with updates on projects which have been authorized by FHWA, contracts which have been awarded, and new employment opportunities — can be found online at www.dot.state.oh.us.
ODOT also continues to work with Ohio's eight major Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) which were directly sub-allocated $161.5 million in transportation infrastructure stimulus funds. To date, FHWA has authorized $16.6 million in projects sponsored by the MPOs in Akron, Canton, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Toledo, and Youngstown.
This year, ODOT embarked on the largest investment in Ohio's transportation system in state history. Since the beginning of January, ODOT has awarded more than $711 million in construction/capital contracts. By the end of December, ODOT expects to invest a total of $1.9 billion in transportation construction.
May 27 – Columbus – Ohio EPA announced today that the state has been awarded nearly $280 million for drinking water and water pollution control projects through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The funds were awarded after U.S. EPA reviewed and approved Ohio EPA's plan to distribute the funds.
"Thanks to the leadership of Ohio members of Congress and President Obama, the federal stimulus is helping Ohio invest in our communities and strengthen our aging infrastructure," said Governor Ted Strickland. "These Recovery Act funds will provide more Ohioans with quality drinking water and improved wastewater treatment while putting more Ohioans to work."
Ohio EPA will make 100 percent of stimulus funds available as subsidies, which is more than the 50 percent required in the Recovery Act. Combined with existing funding in the state revolving loan funds, Ohio will be able to provide more than $1 billion to help stimulate Ohio's economy.
Ohio is receiving $58.46 million in ARRA funding to combine with $81 million in non-ARRA funding for drinking water projects. Ohio also is receiving $220.6 million in ARRA funding to combine with $730 million in non-ARRA funding for water pollution control projects.
"Ohio EPA is committed to helping communities address their aging and worn water and wastewater systems, while helping to put Ohioans back to work," said Ohio EPA Director Chris Korleski. "The awarding of these additional funds will allow much needed public health and environmental improvements."
To be awarded funding, Ohio EPA developed draft Intended Use Plans (IUP) for the drinking water and water pollution control revolving loan programs. Ohio EPA submitted the draft IUPs to U.S. EPA on April 23, 2009. Ohio EPA was required to follow an IUP checklist developed by U.S. EPA. Some requirements of the checklist include:
Director Korleski emphasized that today's announcement does not mean that all the projects on the draft IPL will be awarded funding. "Ohio EPA continues to review the draft drinking water and water pollution control project lists based on public comments received during the public comment period and public meeting, readiness-to-proceed, project rescoring or verification, and green infrastructure components. Ohio EPA plans to submit a revised draft of the plans (which will include the most current project lists) to U.S. EPA in the near future."
Director Korleski also stressed that the inclusion of a project on the revised IPL does not guarantee funding of the project. "What everyone needs to understand is that the project lists are always subject to change, until all the funding has been awarded. A listed project may be bypassed for a number of reasons, including withdrawal of the project by the applicant, lack of readiness to proceed and/or the inability to meet program requirements or requirements of the Recovery Act. If a project is bypassed, Ohio EPA will look at the scored and prioritized projects on the full Project Priority List and will then fund one or more of those projects instead. Any bypassed projects may still be eligible for non-ARRA funding."
Prior to the Recovery Act, the State of Ohio through grants from U.S. EPA and matching funds raised by bonds issued by the Ohio Water Development Authority on behalf of Ohio EPA, established financial and technical assistance programs to help Ohioans improve their water and wastewater treatment systems. Since 1998, the Ohio Water Supply Revolving Loan Account has provided more than $630 million in low-interest loans for drinking water improvements. Since 1989, the Water Pollution Control Loan Fund has provided more than $4 billion in low-cost financing for a wide variety of water quality improvement actions.
Ohio EPA directs the loan programs and evaluates the proposed projects. The Ohio Water Development Authority manages the program's loan accounts and issues bonds to ensure financing is available.
May 26 – Columbus – The Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) was recently among the first to be awarded funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Treasury under programs created through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The Agency will receive $83 million from HUD's Tax Credit Assistance Program (TCAP) and $21 million from the Treasury Department as part of the Tax Credit Exchange (TCE) program. Both programs will allow OHFA to further establish affordable housing across the state.
"Funding safe, affordable housing is important to revitalizing Ohio's housing industry," said Ohio Governor Ted Strickland. "Not only will this help us increase the number of affordable housing units, but we can stimulate the economy through jobs in construction and rehabilitation of these housing communities."
OHFA will apply the $83 million TCAP as low-interest loans or grants to developers who are awarded Housing Tax Credits in 2007, 2008 or 2009. To be eligible to receive funding, developers must have an investor for their tax credits secured, as these funds are intended to fill financing gaps left by lower equity investment.
Through the TCE program, OHFA applied to turn 10 percent of the Agency's yearly allotment of Federal Housing Tax Credits into grant dollars to provide greater financial support to developers who have found it increasingly difficult to secure investors. OHFA will distribute grants to developments awarded credits in 2007, 2008 or 2009. In addition, the Agency has the authority to exchange any credits returned from 2007 and 2008 recipients to aid other developers.
"These programs will allow us to assist developers who are experiencing difficulties securing an investor or are receiving lower returns on current tax credits," said Doug Garver, Executive Director of the Agency. "The future of affordable housing development in Ohio relies on these programs. Without them, many families would not have a safe, affordable place to call home."
Information about how to apply for this funding will be available within the next few weeks at www.ohiohome.org.
May 22 – Columbus – Governor Ted Strickland and Lisa Patt-McDaniel, Interim Director of the Ohio Department of Development, today announced that the state will receive $38.9 million in additional funding for the Community Services Block Grant Program through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
The funds, administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, will be allocated to local community action agencies to provide services and activities addressing employment, emergency services, and a variety of activities to combat poverty. Distribution of funds is expected to begin in June and continue over the next two years. Funding is contingent upon approval of the state's Community Services Block Grant Program plan by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
"The services provided through this program will help strengthen Ohio's communities and families," said Strickland. "President Obama's decision to invest these funds in Ohio's Community Services Block Grant Program will help more Ohioans get back on their feet during these tough economic times."
The Community Services Block Grant Program funds, administered by the Ohio Department of Development's Community Development Division and its Office of Community Services, may be used to assist families and individuals whose annual household income is at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. Funding is being allocated based on an existing formula methodology to local community action agencies.
"We are encouraging the community action agencies to focus the use of these Community Services Block Grant funds to support employment-related services and activities that create and sustain economic growth," said Patt-McDaniel. "The funds will also be critical in helping reduce poverty, revitalizing low-income communities, and empowering low-income families and individuals to be self-sufficient."
Currently, the state receives approximately $27 million per fiscal year in Community Services Block Grant Program funding. Due to the significant increase in funds through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, specific requirements will be necessary to ensure that the funds are used effectively, timely, and with maximum accountability and transparency.
The community action agencies will be required to coordinate all employment-related services with the local One-Stop Career Centers, which offer free resources for job seekers. In addition, community action agencies are encouraged to link with the Ohio Benefit Bank, a service of the Governor's Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives. The Ohio Benefit Bank helps connect low and moderate-income families with services that can help them gain financial stability and security. Office of Community Services staff will monitor and review Community Services Block Grant expenditures on a quarterly basis.
| GRANTEE | ALLOCATION | COUNTY(IES) SERVED |
|---|---|---|
| Adams/Brown Counties Economic Opportunities, Inc. | $350,030 | Adams, Brown |
| Lima/Allen Council On Community Affairs | $399,633 | Allen |
| Kno-Ho-Co-Ashland Community Action Commission | $629,743 | Ashland, Coshocton, Holmes, Knox |
| Ashtabula County Community Action | $412,267 | Ashtabula |
| Hocking, Athens, Perry Community Action Agency | $617,920 | Athens, Hocking, Perry |
| SOURCES Community Network Services | $261,363 | Auglaize, Mercer |
| Community Action Commission of Belmont County | $350,490 | Belmont |
| Supports to Encourage Low-Income Families (SELF) | $784,870 | Butler |
| Har-Ca-Tus Tri-County Community Action Organization | $521,364 | Carroll, Harrison, Tuscarawas |
| Tri-County Community Action Commission of Champaign-Logan-Shelby Counties | $410,198 | Champaign, Logan, Shelby |
| Opportunities Industrialization Center of Clark County | $463,243 | Clark |
| Clermont County Community Services, Inc. | $433,822 | Clermont |
| Clinton County Community Action Program | $183,560 | Clinton |
| Community Action Agency of Columbiana County, Inc. | $445,661 | Columbiana |
| Ohio Heartland Community Action Commission | $475,302 | Crawford, Marion, Morrow |
| Council for Economic Opportunities in Greater Cleveland | $5,280,457 | Cuyahoga |
| Community Action Partnership of the Greater Dayton Area | $2,827,922 | Darke, Greene. Montgomery, Preble, Warren |
| Northwestern Ohio Community Action Commission, Inc. | $635,396 | Defiance, Fulton, Henry, Paulding, Williams |
| Community Action Organization of Delaware/Madison/Union Counties, Inc. | $376,765 | Delaware, Madison, Union |
| Erie/Huron Counties Community Action Commission | $427,157 | Erie, Huron |
| Community Action Program Commission of the Lancaster/Fairfield Area | $317,191 | Fairfield |
| Community Action Commission of Fayette County | $167,012 | Fayette |
| IMPACT Community Action | $3,365,248 | Franklin |
| Community Action Program of Meigs and Gallia Counties, Inc. | $319,926 | Gallia, Meigs |
| Geauga Community Action, Inc | $204,507 | Geauga |
| G-M-N Tri-County Community Action Committee | $352,611 | Guernsey, Monroe, Noble |
| Cincinnati/Hamilton County Community Action Agency | $2,874,960 | Hamilton |
| HHWP Community Action Commission | $458,780 | Hancock, Hardin, Putnam, Wyandot |
| Highland County Community Action Organization | $221,182 | Highland |
| Jackson/Vinton Community Action, Inc | $278,321 | Jackson, Vinton |
| Jefferson County Community Action Council, Inc. | $404,445 | Jefferson |
| Lifeline for the Empowerment and Development of Consumers, Inc. | $426,033 | Lake |
| Ironton/Lawrence County Area Community Action Organization | $372,414 | Lawrence |
| LEADS Community Action Agency | $413,103 | Licking |
| Lorain County Community Action Agency, Inc. | $723,706 | Lorain |
| Economic Opportunity Planning Association (EOPA) | $1,816,578 | Lucas |
| Youngstown Area Community Action Council | $1,192,643 | Mahoning |
| Community Action Wayne/Medina | $627,806 | Medina, Wayne |
| Miami County Community Action Council | $265,196 | Miami |
| Central City Economic Development Community Action Council, Inc. | $475,578 | Richland |
| Community Action Corporation of Washington/Morgan Counties, Ohio | $379,494 | Morgan, Washington |
| Muskingum Economic Opportunity Action Group, Inc. | $359,699 | Muskingum |
| WSOS Community Action Commission, Inc. | $747,141 | Ottawa, Sandusky, Seneca, Wood, |
| Pickaway County Community Action Organization | $206,896 | Pickaway |
| Community Action Committee of Pike County | $202,416 | Pike |
| Community Action Council of Portage County, Inc. | $444,571 | Portage |
| Ross County Community Action Commission, Inc. | $307,849 | Ross |
| Community Action Commission of Scioto County | $537,894 | Scioto |
| Stark County Community Action Agency | $1,154,357 | Stark |
| Akron/Summit Community Action, Inc. | $1,811,272 | Summit |
| Trumbull Community Action Program (TCAP) | $736,209 | Trumbull |
| Van Wert County Community Action Commission | $134,140 | Van Wert |
| TOTAL | $38,586,341 | |
| One percent will be used by the state for the purpose of benefit enrollment and coordination activities. | $389,761.00 | |
| STATE TOTAL | $38,976,102 |
The Community Services Block Grant Program is directed at the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act's goals: to create and preserve jobs, promote economic recovery, and assist those most impacted by the recession.
May 21 – Columbus – The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), part of the National Institutes of Health, will award 22 grants totaling $3.3 million through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for research on complex and difficult-to-treat lung diseases. The research will specifically focus on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The Ohio State University is among the recipients of these funds. The entire press release can be viewed at: www.nih.gov/news/health/may2009/nhlbi-20.htm.
May 21 – Columbus – The National Science Foundation (NSF) announced $200 million in competitive grants for repairs and renovations at the nation's academic research facilities. Grants of up to $10 million each for the repair or renovation of existing academic research facilities will be awarded. The deadline for letters of intent is July 1, 2009 and the deadline for full proposals is August 24, 2009. The entire press release can be viewed at: www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jsp?cntn_id=114656.
May 21 – Columbus – U.S Department of Energy Secretary Chu announced $2.4 billion to expand and accelerate the commercial deployment of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology.
The following initiatives will be supported through these funds:
For more information and to view the entire press release, please visit: www.energy.gov/news2009/7405.htm.
May 21 – U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsak announced $38 million of ARRA funded projects for invasive species. Ohio is estimated to receive $4,419,000 to create an invasive species job corps for wildfire management.
The project will take place in the following counties: Adams, Athens, Belmont, Brown, Gallia, Guernsey, Highland, Hocking, Jackson, Lawrence, Meigs, Monroe, Morgan, Noble, Pike, Ross, Scioto, Vinton, and Washington
The complete press release can be viewed at: usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/05/0167.xml.
A listing of the invasive species projects can be found at: www.fs.fed.us/.
May 21 – U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Vilsack announced the selection of projects totaling more than $60 million for essential community facilities and emergency responder projects to be funded immediately with ARRA funds. Ohio will receive a total of $5,216,000 of funds for Rural Community Facilities.
Ohio projects include:
Funding of individual recipients is contingent upon their meeting the terms of the loan or grant agreement.
For more information on these projects and to view the entire press release: usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/05/0172.xml.
May 19 – Columbus – Governor Ted Strickland and Lisa Patt-McDaniel, Interim Director of the Ohio Department of Development, today announced that Ohio's Continuums of Care and county boards of commissioners will partner with the Department in awarding more than $24.5 million of Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP) funds. In addition, a total of $1 million will be awarded to five non-profit organizations for the Family Homelessness Prevention Pilot Program which provides services to prevent the loss of housing.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing funds to the Ohio Department of Development as a result of the enactment of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The funds must be used to provide financial assistance and services to help prevent individuals and families from becoming homeless or assist those experiencing homelessness to be re-housed and stabilized. The Continuum of Care is a planning process supported by service providers that help communities plan for and provide a full range of services to address the various needs of the homeless, including homelessness prevention, emergency shelter, transitional housing and permanent supportive housing.
"We are focusing our efforts to combat homelessness during these tough economic times," said Strickland. "The resources provided through the Recovery Act will enable us to better assist Ohio families and individuals with the help and housing they need. We are grateful that President Obama and Ohio's Congressional delegation recognize the importance of investing in homelessness prevention."
Distribution of the funds is contingent upon approval of Ohio's Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program plan by HUD, but is expected to begin in September. All funds must be expended during the three-year grant period.
"The Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program is designed to transform local homelessness prevention and supportive services delivery methods," said Patt-McDaniel. "The program is also a unique opportunity for the state to work collaboratively with Ohio's Continuums of Care and counties to help Ohio's neediest residents."
Administered by the Ohio Department of Development's Community Development Division, $24.5 million of the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program funds were allocated to 49 service areas through a formula based on poverty and unemployment rates, with the areas of greatest need receiving funding. The Ohio Continuums of Care will collaborate with the county boards of commissioners to select and certify the appropriate Ohio Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program award recipients.
Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program funds also will be awarded to continue the Family Homelessness Prevention Pilot Program for one year. The program identifies families most at risk for homelessness in Fayette, Pickaway, Franklin, Hamilton, Lucas and Montgomery Counties.
Ohio HPRP Single-County Service Areas | |||
| County | HPRP Service Area | Amount | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allen | Allen County | $129,100 | |
| Ashland | Ashland County | 208,200 | |
| Belmont | Belmont County | 348,600 | |
| Butler | Butler County | 258,400 | |
| Clark | Clark County | 144,300 | |
| Clermont | Clermont County | 466,900 | |
| Columbiana | Columbiana County | 525,800 | |
| Cuyahoga | Cuyahoga County | 1,689,600 | |
| Fairfield | Fairfield County | 288,500 | |
| Franklin | Franklin County | 1,039,400 | |
| Greene | Greene County | 448,300 | |
| Hamilton | Hamilton County | 809,900 | |
| Jefferson | Jefferson County | 408,800 | |
| Lake | Lake County | 145,400 | |
| Lorain | Lorain County | 280,000 | |
| Lucas | Lucas County | 722,500 | |
| Mahoning | Mahoning County | 304,600 | |
| Medina | Medina County | 344,000 | |
| Miami | Miami County | 266,400 | |
| Montgomery | Montgomery County | 648,200 | |
| Muskingum | Muskingum County | 494,900 | |
| Portage | Portage County | 544,900 | |
| Richland | Richland County | 563,400 | |
| Stark | Stark County | 340,100 | |
| Summit | Summit County | 488,000 | |
| Trumbull | Trumbull County | 242,700 | |
| Warren | Warren County | 347,500 | |
| Wayne | Wayne County | 297,700 | |
| TOTAL | $12,796,100 | ||
Ohio HPRP Multi-County Service Areas | |||
| Region | HRPR Service Area | Amount | |
| 1 | Ashtabula-Geauga Counties | $728,000 | |
| 2 | Athens, Hocking, and Perry Counties | 841,100 | |
| 3 | Brown-Adams Counties | 424,300 | |
| 4 | Coshocton and Holmes Counties | 323,800 | |
| 5 | Defiance-Fulton-Henry-Paulding and Williams Counties | 581,000 | |
| 6 | Delaware-Morrow Counties | 335,200 | |
| 7 | Fayette-Clinton-Highland-Pickaway-Ross Counties | 994,800 | |
| 8 | Guernsey-Monroe-Noble Counties | 434,800 | |
| 9 | Hancock-Hardin-Wyandot-Putnam Counties | 501,400 | |
| 10 | Huron-Erie Counties | 570,100 | |
| 11 | Jackson-Vinton-Gallia-Meigs Counties | 687,800 | |
| 12 | Lawrence-Pike-Scioto Counties | 1,131,000 | |
| 13 | Licking-Knox Counties | 618,500 | |
| 14 | Logan-Champaign-Shelby Counties | 395,900 | |
| 15 | Marion-Crawford Counties | 481,200 | |
| 16 | Mercer-Auglaize-Van Wert Counties | 291,900 | |
| 17 | Preble-Darke Counties | 278,100 | |
| 18 | Tuscarawas-Carroll-Harrison Counties | 538,700 | |
| 19 | Union-Madison Counties | 177,400 | |
| 20 | Washington-Morgan Counties | 355,500 | |
| 21 | Wood-Sandusky-Seneca-Ottawa Counties | 1,055,200 | |
| TOTAL | $11,745,700 | ||
Family Homelessness Prevention Pilot Project Program Award Recipients | |||
| County | HPRP Service Area | Amount | |
| Fayette/Pickaway | Community Action Commission of Fayette County | $200,000 | |
| Franklin | Community Shelter Board | 200,000 | |
| Lucas | Family Outreach Community United Services, Inc. | 200,000 | |
| Hamilton | Salvation Army-Cincinnati | 200,000 | |
| Montgomery | YWCA of Dayton | 200,000 | |
| TOTAL | $1,000,000 | ||
| GRAND TOTAL | $25,541,800 | ||
As a result of the enactment of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, HUD received $1.5 billion for eligible applicants to provide individuals and families who would be homeless with short-term or medium-term rental assistance and housing relocation and stabilization services including mediation, credit counseling, security or utility deposits, utility payments, moving cost assistance, and case management.
In total, the State of Ohio and its jurisdictions received more than $65 million of Homelessness Prevention funds, with HUD awarding $39.4 million directly to 21 cities and counties and $26.2 million to the State of Ohio.
May 18 – Columbus – Lisa Patt-McDaniel, Interim Director of the Ohio Department of Development, and Mark Shanahan, energy adviser to Governor Ted Strickland, today announced that the State of Ohio filed its proposal for use of $96 million in State Energy Program funds, which have been allocated to Ohio by the U.S. Department of Energy through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The proposal outlines objectives and goals for how the ARRA funds will be utilized to create jobs in Ohio and reduce consumption and reliance on imported energy. The proposal is subject to review and approval by the Department of Energy.
"The development of renewable energy and alternative fuel strategies in Ohio is critical to positioning our state for sustainable, long-term, and efficient growth," Patt-McDaniel said. "Through Governor Strickland's leadership, Ohio's Advanced Energy Standard is one of the most aggressive in the country, positioning Ohio to utilize American Recovery and Reinvestment Act resources to deploy the technologies that will help Ohio families save on energy while accelerating market-driven job creation in our state."
Ohio's proposal for the State Energy Program funding was submitted to secure American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding and support investments in energy programs which will retain and create jobs. The program is a collaboration between the Ohio Air Quality Development Authority and the Ohio Department of Development to develop renewable energy and alternative fuel projects, upgrade the energy efficiency of public and private facilities and promote innovative state efforts to help families save money on energy.
"Ohio will be able to reach our energy efficiency goals because of President Obama and Ohio's Congressional members who worked to pass the important federal stimulus bill. They recognized the critical importance of investing in renewable and advanced energy projects for the future success of our state and national economies," said Shanahan.
The Ohio Department of Development will provide information on each of the program initiatives to companies, non-profits, communities and other entities which submitted proposals through Recovery.Ohio.gov. This process will include applications for each of the specific initiatives in order to determine eligibility and viability of the proposal to be supported with this critical funding.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds appropriated to the State Energy Program will enable Ohio to accelerate the goals of the act that concern renewable energy development, preserve or create jobs, increase energy efficiency and assist Ohioans impacted by current economic conditions.
A summary of the initiatives in Ohio's State Energy Program proposal is as follows:
The remaining funds will be used to ensure appropriate oversight, reporting, administration and implementation over the three-year grant period.
For additional information on the Ohio Energy Program and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, please visit: development.ohio.gov/recovery/StateEnergyProgram.htm
May 15 – U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood announced $1.5 billion in Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grants. Applications must be submitted by September 15, 2009. These grants will be awarded competitively to projects that have a significant impact, can create jobs, and provide economic benefit to distressed areas. Those eligible to apply include state and local governments, transit agencies, and port authorities. For additional information: www.dot.gov/affairs/2009/dot6909.htm
May 14 – U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Donovan announced $250 million to promote energy efficient and green retrofits in federally assisted multi-family housing. These funds will aid in 25,000 apartment units becoming more energy efficient and will create thousands of green collar jobs.
This program offers up to $15,000 per residence; eligible applicants must be HUD assisted through Section 8 or Section 202 and Section 811. Applications will be accepted beginning June 15, 2009.
The entire press release can be viewed at: portal.hud.gov/portal/page?_pageid=153,8001427&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL
May 11 – U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced $50 million of grants from the Strengthening Communities Fund created through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
This Fund aims to strengthen nonprofit and faith-based organizations aiding families and communities struggling in the economic downturn. Awards will be made in two manners: awards of up to $1 million will be made on a one-time, two year basis to lead organizations to support other faith-based or secular nonprofits; and awards of up to $250,000 will be made to state, city, county and Indian/native American tribal governments to strengthen nonprofit organizations.
The full press release on these funds can be viewed at: www.hhs.gov/news/press/2009pres/05/20090511c.html
May 11 – U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced $1 billion of funds to be awarded competitively for improvements to thousands of public housing units nationwide.
The Notice of Funds can be found on HUD's Recovery Act website; applications will be accepted from June 1 to July 21, 2009 – for Energy Efficiency funding and June 1 to August 18, 2009 – for financing stalled projects, public housing transformation, and housing for the elderly/persons with disabilities.
The entire press release and additional information on these funds can be viewed at: portal.hud.gov/portal/page?_pageid=153,7993327&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL
May 11 – The National Science Foundation (NSF) today announced a special opportunity for funding projects that strengthen the research infrastructure in the nation's science and engineering research and education institutions.
Funding of $300 million was provided for the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) program through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), signed into law by President Barack Obama in February 2009. The deadline for solicitations is August 10, 2009.
The entire press release and additional information on these funds can be viewed at: www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jsp?cntn_id=114641
May 11 – Small communities have another opportunity to obtain funding for rural water and sewer projects. The United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development office has a national pool of funds, to be allocated on a first come, first serve basis. Loans and grants are available to finance water and sewer project in communities with populations of less than 10,000. For more information about USDA Rural Development go to: www.usda.gov/rus/water/index.htm
May 8 – Recovery Act funds are being added to the US EPAs Brownfields funds to bolster the grant program that helps revitalize former industrial and commercial sites. View more information.
May 8 – The U.S. Department of Labor announced the release of $101 million for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) to help states provide career training, job search and relocation assistance to U.S. workers who lose their jobs for trade-related reasons.
These funds represent the balance of FY 2009 TAA base allocations announced in October 2008. Ohio will receive $6,483,294, the FY 2009 base allocation under the continuing resolution.
To view the entire press release: www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/eta/ETA20090494.htm
May 8 – U.S Department of Homeland Security Secretary announced $50 million for explosive detection systems and advanced technology X-ray units for airports nationwide.
To learn more visit www.dhs.gov/ynews/releases/pr_1241797891043.shtm
May 8 – U.S .Department of Health and Human Services Health Resource and Services Administration announces $850 million of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds available through the Capital Improvement Program.
Grant applications are due June 2, 2009 – for a project/budget period of July 1, 2009 – June 30, 2011. For more information please see: bphc.hrsa.gov/recovery/capitalimprovementguidance.pdf PDF
May 7 – U.S Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced $50 million available to states through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to help fight healthcare associated infections (HAI) and improve patient safety.
$40 million will be available to states through competitive grants to create and/or expand state based HAI prevention and surveillance as well as to strengthen the HAI surveillance workforce. An additional $10 million will be allocated to improve the process and increase the rate at which inspections at ambulatory surgical centers occur.
To view the entire press release, please visit www.hhs.gov/news/press/2009pres/05/20090506a.html.
May 6 – U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Chu announced 71 university research projects for cutting-edge nuclear energy research and development. These projects will receive about $44 million over three years.
The following Ohio projects were announced:
For more information and to view the entire press release: www.energy.gov/7383.htm
May 6 – U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced $786.5 million of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds aimed at accelerating advanced biofuels research and development.
Additionally, these funds will provide additional funding for commercial-scale biorefinery demonstration projects. The funds include: $480 million solicitation for integrated pilot- and demonstration-scale biorefineries; $176.5 million for commercial-scale biorefinery projects; $110 million for fundamental research in key program areas; and $20 million for ethanol research.
The entire press release can be viewed at: www.energy.gov/news2009/7375.htm. For more information on these programs visit: www.energy.gov/recovery/.
May 5 – Secretary Donovan announced the availability of $2 billion in Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) funds and $50 million for Neighborhood Stabilization Program Technical Assistance funds. These funds target aid to communities with large rates of abandoned and foreclosed homes. Applications for NSP funds are due July 17, 2009 – and applications for NSP technical assistance are due June 8, 2009.
More information about Neighborhood Stabilization Program funds can be found at: www.hud.gov/recovery/nspg.cfm. The entire press release can be found at: www.hud.gov/news/release.cfm?content=pr09-047.cfm
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced funds through the Tax Credit Assistance Program (TCAP) and Low Income Housing Grant. Together the departments will provide $5 billion in funds for states to finance the acquisition and construction of buildings for affordable housing, creating numerous jobs and providing housing for those affected by the housing market decline.
For more information on TCAP, please visit: www.hud.gov/recovery/tax-credit.cfm. More information on the Low Income Housing Grant can be found at: www.treasury.gov/recovery/LIH-grants.shtml Read the entire press release.
The Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) is the state agency responsible for administering the TCAP and Low-Income Housing Grant program. More information regarding OHFA's implementation efforts can be found at: www.ohiohome.org/arra/default.aspx.
May 5 – Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) Director Douglas Lumpkin announced today that Ohio has begun receiving significant funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for programs that provide food to the state's neediest families.
Among other things, the Recovery Act provides the following help for very low-income Ohio families and children:
"We are happy to be able to distribute this funding to the families who so desperately need it," said ODJFS Director Douglas Lumpkin. "This money will help thousands of Ohio's families sustain themselves during this difficult time, so they can continue to provide for their children while they try to get back on their feet again."
To apply for food assistance, applicants must fill out a "Request for Cash, Food Stamp and Medical Assistance" form and submit it to their local county department of job and family services. Forms can be obtained online, at jfs.ohio.gov/ofam/cmandfsa.stm, or by calling or visiting a county agency. A list of county agencies with contact information can be found at jfs.ohio.gov/County/cntydir.stm.
May 5 – To be considered for funding for the School Cafeteria Equipment Program, all interested schools must complete a two-step process:
For additional information, see: April 10, 2009 – Guidance on Title I, IDEA, and School Cafeteria Equipment
May 4 – Columbus, Ohio – Interim Director of the Ohio Department of Development Mark Barbash today announced that the state will receive approximately $266 million in additional funding for the Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP) through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).
The funds, administered by the U.S. Department of Energy, will be used to increase the energy efficiency of homes owned or occupied by low-income Ohioans, reduce household energy expenditures and improve occupants' health and safety.
Distribution of funds is expected to begin in June and continue over the next three years. Funding is contingent upon approval of the Home Weatherization Assistance Program plan by the U.S. Department of Energy. A public hearing will provide an opportunity to comment on the plan and has been scheduled on Wednesday, May 6, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Columbia Gas of Ohio Building Auditorium, 200 Civic Center Drive, Columbus.
"With the costs of energy bills increasing, we are ensuring that households who are in the most need receive weatherization assistance," said Barbash. "These additional Home Weatherization Assistance Program funds will create and preserve jobs, assist those most impacted by the recession, and invest in environmental protection that provides long-term economic benefits."
The Home Weatherization Assistance Program, administered by the Ohio Department of Development's Community Development Division and its Office of Community Services, is free for citizens whose annual household income is at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. The funds, which are expected to weatherize more than 32,000 homes, are being allocated based on an existing formula methodology to local community action agencies and other public and non-profit entities that carry out the Home Weatherization Assistance Program.
Currently, the state receives approximately $51 million in Home Weatherization Assistance Program funding. Due to the significant increase in funds through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, specific requirements will be necessary to ensure that the funds are used effectively, timely and with maximum accountability and transparency.
To accommodate the increase in the size of the Home Weatherization Assistance Program during the stimulus period, HWAP providers will add crew members, managers and inspectors and increase the number of contractors. Individuals and contractors that possess weatherization program experience or a skill set consistent with weatherization practices are best positioned to take advantage of anticipated weatherization work opportunities. Office of Community Services staff and Ohio's Weatherization Training Center located at the Corporation for Appalachian Development in Athens provides training and technical assistance for the program. Training includes classroom instruction and demonstration of optimal weatherization methods.
In addition to the Ohio Weatherization Training Center, four regional training locations have been added to make training more accessible, reduce costs and reduce trainee time away from work. The regional training hubs are located at Wood Seneca Ottawa Sandusky (WSOS) Community Action Agency (Green Springs), Community Action Partnership of the Greater Dayton Area (Dayton) and LEADS Community Action Agency (Newark). Trainings are also held in the Cleveland area at various locations. For more information on weatherization training contact the Center at 740.594.8499 or visit www.coadinc.org.
Potential contractors and individuals interested in working in the weatherization field may apply with their local weatherization provider to join an in-house weatherization crew. For a list of weatherization providers, visit www.development.ohio.gov. Contractors will need previous experience in building construction and must be able to understand and perform blower door testing and worst case depressurization draft testing. Ohioans who would like to apply to have their home weatherized should also contact their local weatherization provider. HWAP grantees are required to post job opportunities through the program with local One-Stops and online at www.ohiomeansjobs.com.
Grantees will be required to report their productivity in relation to established production goals on a monthly basis. Office of Community Services weatherization experts monitor work quality and provide technical assistance when needed. If production levels or work quality requirements are not being met, the Office of Community Services may undertake contingency measures including diverting funds to alternative service providers. In addition, HWAP grantees must provide the Office of Community Services with an implementation plan for training and hiring a diverse work force that is representative of the population being served.
The Ohio Weatherization Assistance Program Grantees are:
| Grantee Providers | U.S. Department of Energy Funds | Projected Homes | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ashtabula County Community Action Agency | $5,254,374 | 628 | |
| SOURCES Community Network Services | $1,369,707 | 163 | |
| Tri-County Community Action Commission of Champaign, Logan and Shelby Counties | $2,255,370 | 270 | |
| Cincinnati-Hamilton County Community Action Agency | $11,157,846 | 1,328 | |
| Clinton County Community Action Partnership | $3,595,063 | 428 | |
| Cuyahoga County Department of Development | $9,410,315 | 1,120 | |
| Ohio Heartland Community Action Commission | $2,772,099 | 330 | |
| City of Cleveland | $20,796,778 | 2,478 | |
| Delegate Provider | Cleveland Housing Network | $5,561,058 | 704 |
| Delegate Provider | Cudell Improvement | $3,778,775 | 453 |
| Delegate Provider | Community Housing Solutions | $3,997,141 | 480 |
| Delegate Provider | Mt. Pleasant NOW Development Corporation | $2,564,243 | 329 |
| Delegate Provider | Fairfax Renaissance Development Corporation | $2,331,319 | 288 |
| Delegate Provider | Detroit Shoreway Community Development Organization | $1,859,232 | 223 |
| Community Action Partnership of Greater Dayton | $18,119,622 | 2,156 | |
| Delegate Provider | Warren County Community Services, Inc. | $1,462,253 | 219 |
| Northwestern Ohio Community Action Commission | $2,830,799 | 338 | |
| Community Action Organization of Delaware-Madison-Union | $2,292,626 | 274 | |
| CAP Commission of Lancaster-Fairfield | $1,535,759 | 183 | |
| Community Action Commission of Fayette County | $1,118,125 | 134 | |
| Hancock, Hardin, Wyandot, Putnam, Allen Community Action Commission, Inc. | $5,253,620 | 625 | |
| LEADS | $2,253,476 | 269 | |
| Lorain County Community Action Agency, Inc. | $2,940,583 | 350 | |
| Neighborhood Housing Services of Toledo, Inc. | $8,479,475 | 1,016 | |
| Mahoning Youngstown Community Action Partnership | $7,421,544 | 885 | |
| WSOS Community Action Commission, Inc. | $6,757,736 | 805 | |
| Pickaway County Community Action Organization, Inc. | $1,247,411 | 149 | |
| Community Action Council of Portage County, Inc. | $2,346,242 | 280 | |
| Stark County Community Action Agency | $4,807,413 | 572 | |
| Summit County Dept. of Community and Economic Development | $6,958,429 | 829 | |
| Trumbull Community Action Program | $3,684,570 | 439 | |
| Community Action Wayne/Medina | $2,553,435 | 304 | |
| Corporation for Appalachian Development | $40,839,633 | 4,870 | |
| Delegate Provider | Adams Brown Counties Economic Opportunities, Inc. | $2,666,828 | 351 |
| Delegate Provider | Hocking-Athens-Perry Community Action | $3,704,155 | 459 |
| Delegate Provider | Community Action Commission of Belmont County, Inc. | $2,315,607 | 277 |
| Delegate Provider | Gallia Meigs Community Action Agency | $1,894,959 | 221 |
| Delegate Provider | GMN Tri-County Community Action Committee, Inc. | $2,327,859 | 270 |
| Delegate Provider | Harcatus Tri-County Community Action Committee | $2,985,377 | 347 |
| Delegate Provider | Highland County Community Action Organization | $1,384,464 | 158 |
| Delegate Provider | Ironton Lawrence County Area Community Action Organization | $2,372,783 | 291 |
| Delegate Provider | Jackson Vinton County Community Action, Inc. | $2,070,569 | 256 |
| Delegate Provider | Jefferson County Community Action Council | $1,939,883 | 256 |
| Delegate Provider | Kno-Ho-Co Ashland Community Action Commission | $3,565,300 | 425 |
| Delegate Provider | Muskingum Economic Opportunity Action Group, Inc. | $2,376,867 | 305 |
| Delegate Provider | Community Action Committee of Pike County, Inc. | $1,380,380 | 161 |
| Delegate Provider | Ross County Community Action Commission, Inc. | $1,739,768 | 221 |
| Delegate Provider | Community Action Organization of Scioto County | $2,658,660 | 309 |
| Delegate Provider | Community Action Program Corporation of Washington-Morgan Counties | $2,344,195 | 270 |
| Delegate Provider | Community Action Agency of Columbiana County, Inc. | $2,258,432 | 291 |
| Miami County Community Action Council | $1,817,134 | 216 | |
| Board of Van Wert County Commissioners | $1,071,907 | 128 | |
| Clermont County Community Services | $2,069,502 | 247 | |
| Ground Level Solutions, Inc. (Franklin) | $3,745,057 | 446 | |
| East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation | $1,786,390 | 213 | |
| Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission | $4,452,581 | 538 | |
| Ground Level Solutions, Inc. (Richland and Morrow) | $2,836,611 | 338 | |
| IMPACT Community Action Agency | $9,813,020 | 1,168 | |
| Reserve Allocation | $53,356,279 | 7,662 | |
| Totals: | $259,000,531 | 32,179 | |
Source: Ohio Department of Development
*The difference between the $266 million awarded to the state and the total listed above is allocated for administrative costs, training and technical assistance.
The Home Weatherization Assistance Program is directed at the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act's goals: to create and preserve jobs, promote economic recovery, assist those most impacted by the recession and invest in environmental protection that provides long-term economic benefits. For more information about the American Recovery and Investment Act and Home Weatherization Assistance Program and guidelines, visit Recovery.Ohio.gov.
Working with our partners across business, state and local governments, academia, and the non-profit sector, the Ohio Department of Development works to attract, create, grow, and retain businesses through competitive incentives and targeted investments. Engaged every day in marketing, innovating, investing, and collaborating, the Ohio Department of Development works at the speed of business to accelerate and support the teamwork that is absolutely necessary for success by providing financial, informational, and technical assistance to those making an investment in Ohio's future.
May 4 – The Ohio Department of Education (ODE) will receive approximately $23.9 million for education technology grants from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act). Ohio will provide the education technology funding to eligible local education agencies (LEAs) half by formula and half through a competitive process.
Overall, the Recovery Act provides states $650 million for Education Technology State grants to be used to create technology-rich classrooms for America's students to boost the U.S. economy in the short term and prepare students for the global knowledge economy.
The ODE has posted the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the 21st Century Learning Environments Technology Grant (ARRA Title II-D Competitive Grant) online at www.etech.ohio.gov/go/arra. The application is now open for eligible grantees. The deadline for applications is 5 p.m. (EST) June 12, 2009.
Interested applicants also will need to submit a separate project proposal form on Recovery.Ohio.gov . This form must be completed by 5 p.m. (EST) May 15, 2009. In addition, a Letter of Intent (Appendix A of the RFP) must be received at the eTech Ohio Commission, Attn: ARRA Title II-D, 2323 W. Fifth Ave., Suite 100, Columbus, Ohio, 43204, by 5 p.m. (EST), Friday, May 15, 2009. Submit original documents with signatures only. Faxes or emails will not be accepted.
Additional information about the 21st Century Learning Environments Technology Grant (ARRA Title II-D Competitive Grant), including a listing of eligible buildings, can be found at www.etech.ohio.gov/go/arra.
May 1 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the selection of water and environmental projects that are being funded immediately with federal funds provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Ohio has been awarded two projects totaling $6,826,000 to help provide improved wastewater treatment systems for these rural communities.
Funding of individual recipients is contingent upon their meeting the terms of the loan or grant agreement.
More information about USDA rural Development can be found at: www.rurdev.usda.gov
Related Story: Ohio Announces Proposed Stimulus Funding for Drinking Water and Water Pollution Control Projects: Schedules Public Meeting
The Army Corps of Engineers released a listing of civil works projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Ohio has been awarded one construction project and 74 operations and maintenance projects that will help improve recreation activities for all Ohioans and to foster better stewardship of our natural resources.
More information about the Army Corps of Engineers projects list can be found at: www.usace.army.mil/RECOVERY/Pages/Projects.aspx
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced projects through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to build visitors centers, improve infrastructure, and bolster conservation at national wildlife refuges and hatcheries across the country. Ohio will receive $1,747,000 through four projects.
More information about the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service allocations can be found at: recovery.doi.gov/press/bureaus/us-fish-and-wildlife-service/
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