Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio EPA Director Anne M. Vogel announced yesterday that $1 million in H2Ohio funding will go toward the Lakeview Midway Water System as part of a broader $16.7 million investment in 13 water infrastructure projects across the state.
The $1 million grant will help fund the construction of 2,400 linear feet of new 8-inch waterlines, along with the installation of fire hydrants and valves.
This project will extend water service to an area that no longer meets private well water regulations, providing residents with access to safe and reliable drinking water.
Governor DeWine emphasized the importance of the H2Ohio initiative, which focuses on improving water infrastructure throughout Ohio.
“H2Ohio is making a real difference with the significant investments we are putting into reliable, clean drinking water,” said Governor DeWine. “The projects being awarded today will have a huge positive impact on hundreds of Ohioans, and that’s what H2Ohio is all about.”
This is the sixth round of H2Ohio funding awarded to municipalities by the Ohio EPA.
The initiative, which was launched in 2019, focuses on regionalization—consolidating water infrastructure to improve service to underserved areas.
Regionalization helps communities save on operational costs while benefiting from upgraded infrastructure.
In addition to Lakeview, other recipients of H2Ohio funding include Madison Water District in Richland County, which is receiving $378,500 to connect 200 Madison Township residents and 10 businesses to reliable public drinking water.
Other grants this round include $5 million for Clark County, $2 million for Portage County, and $1 million each for Findlay, Gallipolis, Guernsey County, and Trumbull County.
H2Ohio has been vital in addressing challenges to Ohio’s water quality, focusing not only on drinking water access but also on tackling issues like algal blooms and pollution.
The program’s comprehensive approach includes supporting best farming practices, road salt runoff reduction, and water infrastructure revitalization, ensuring that Ohio’s water systems are safe, sustainable, and efficient for years to come.
Director Anne M. Vogel praised the collaboration between Ohio EPA and local water districts. “This funding addresses very specific needs in Ohio communities,” she said. “We’re always looking to help Ohio communities solve challenges, and that’s exactly what these H2Ohio dollars will do.”
