The Clean Ohio Revitalization Fund restores, protects, and connects Ohio’s important natural and urban places. The project conserves green spaces as well as farmlands, therefore developing outdoor recreational areas and brownfields.
(Photo credit: Ohio Office of Redevelopment)
The project apparently is doing the state some good, as 21 Clean Ohio projects, including 4 in Central Ohio created $1.16 billion in one-time contribution to the state’s gross domestic product and $1.4 billion in annual contribution. Moreover, Columbus Business First reports that the Clean Ohio project produced a return on investment of $4.67 for the goods and services related to the predevelopment activity for every $1 spent on the program.
“We now have the facts to demonstrate that it reaps incredible dividends for Ohio’s taxpayers and communities,’ shares Greater Ohio Policy Center Executive Director Lavea Brachman.
The Clean Ohio Revitalization Fund urges improvement and regenerates communities. Since 2002, the project has made grants summing up to $315 million to encourage the clean-up of about 160 brownfield sites.
It’s hoped that all 160 of the Clean Ohio funded sites would be as successful as the others which have reaped proven rewards. If they follow the same pattern, it would contribute at least $10 billion annual GDP for the state.
