South Dayton News

State Representative Phil Plummer, a Republican from Dayton, cast his vote in favor of House Bill 54, the State Transportation Budget, which passed with unanimous support. The bill focuses on funding Ohio's transportation system and prioritizes infrastructure development and safety.

"This transportation budget will improve Ohio’s infrastructure while simultaneously enhancing the safety of our citizens," stated Representative Plummer.

House Bill 54 is designed to fund transportation infrastructure for fiscal years 2026-2027. It received bipartisan backing and includes measures aimed at preserving infrastructure, promoting economic growth, and enhancing public safety.

The bill allocates over $393 million for new highway construction to strengthen Ohio's transportation framework. It also introduces the Ohio Airport Improvement Program Fund to aid airports lacking federal grants, improving both infrastructure and daily operations.

Economic development is supported through an annual appropriation of $15 million for the Ohio Workforce Mobility Partnership Program. This program aids workforce transportation in rural and urban areas by funding infrastructure, equipment, technology, vehicles, and planning projects. Additionally, funding for Transportation Improvement Districts (TIDs) has been increased to $9 million annually to encourage job creation. The bill also establishes the Division of Advanced Air Mobility within the Ohio Department of Transportation.

For public safety enhancements, House Bill 54 allocates $382 million for targeted roadway safety upgrades over two years. More than $4.1 billion is committed to maintaining current highway systems through various maintenance operations.

A provision within House Bill 54 prohibits the Bureau of Motor Vehicles from offering voter registration to individuals deemed ineligible based on their records.

Ohio's extensive infrastructure includes one of the largest interstate systems in the country with more than 8,000 lane miles. The state ranks third nationwide in total bridge numbers and fourth in active rail miles.

House Bill 54 now awaits consideration by the Ohio Senate.