The House unanimously sent Governor Kasich’s $7 billion transportation budget to the Senate March 10.
Rep. Ross McGregor (R-Springfield), chairman of the House Finance & Appropriations Transportation Subcommittee, described the measure as “a very modest and responsible budget” that focused on maintaining existing infrastructure (roads, bridges, sewers, etc.). Changes the House made to the executive version not only reduced overall spending by nearly $15 million, but also will help retain jobs, he said, pointing to capital appropriations of $150 million for the State Capital Improvement Program and $49 million for the revolving loan fund.
The Public Works Commission, which administers the local infrastructure financing programs, estimated the capital appropriation levels would help retain 28,000-30,000 jobs in the state, Rep. McGregor said during his floor speech.