COLUMBUS – Representative Mark Johnson (R-Chillicothe) has revealed plans for 11 transformative economic development initiatives in Hocking, Ross, and Vinton counties. These projects are part of the newly established Appalachian Downtowns and Destinations Initiative.
“It is a privilege to represent a region with such natural beauty and a rich history,” said Johnson. “These investments will showcase what makes the Appalachian area a must-visit destination. The development of the UNESCO World Heritage site will not only boost the local economy but also support our downtown businesses and residents. It’s an exciting time for Southern Ohio, and I am committed to fulfilling other projects in the area. It’s an honor to serve the constituents of the 92nd House District.”
The projects planned across the 92nd House District include:
Hocking County:
- City of Logan – $14,328,481: Transformation of Mulberry Street into a welcoming corridor for visitors, including new signage, archways, landscaping, and improved intersections. Main Street will be converted into a “complete street” with wider sidewalks and a shared-use path.
Ross County:
- City of Chillicothe – $35,362,990: Transformation of the Yoctangee Riverside District, including renovations to the Armory for a Visitors’ Center and recreational facility, improvements to recreational fields, road network reconfiguration, and expansion of the Mighty Children’s Museum.
- Concord Township – $1,933,740: Improvements to the Paint Creek Trail.
- Paxton Township – $705,319: Infrastructure improvements around the earthworks site.
- Springfield Township – $952,497: Driveway and parking improvements at the Hopeton Earthworks site.
- Union Township – $792,593: Enhancements to the historic site at Mound City.
- Union Township – $320,542: Expansion of an existing bike trail to connect Hopewell Mound Group to Maple Grove Prairie Park.
- Village of Bainbridge – $2,145,275: Public space enhancements in downtown Bainbridge.
- Village of Frankfort – $3,079,793: Traffic calming measures, ADA-compliant ramps, and improvements to Lightle Park.
Vinton County:
- Village of McArthur – $11,912,000: Construction of the McArthur Center by the University of Rio Grande.
- Village of Zaleski – $3,603,436: Trail enhancements and downtown park improvements.
In total, over $154 million has been allocated for economic development projects, including downtown revitalization and infrastructure improvements, across Ohio’s Appalachian region.
