Portsmouth is getting a whopping $34 million to aid in Riverfront Development. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine made the big announcement Monday in Portsmouth. Here’s how it will be spent –
The money will pay for a new riverfront amphitheater, improvements to Alexandria Park, recreational paths along the river, and more. “We asked for big ideas from local communities. We wanted things that would be transformative and make a significant difference.”
The money will come from the Appalachian Community Grant Program. Scioto County Daily News was the only area news organization to provide full, live coverage of DeWine’s announcement.
Scioto County Commissioner Bryan Davis was grinning from ear to ear as he introduced the Governor. “I hear there’s an announcement of some kind going on,” he joked. “What an exciting day as we celebrate this momentous occasion. Today will be the beginning of a new beginning and rebirth for the city of Portsmouth and Scioto County.”
The Governor was also in high spirits as he announced the birth of a new grandchild. “About 4 am, we had a grandson born this morning.”
Nearly two years ago, DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted announced their proposal to use ARPA funds for an Appalachian Community Grant Program. “We need to invest a significant amount of money in our Appalachian counties.” He said when Ohio legislators asked how much, he said, “About half a billion dollars. Fortunately, they agreed with that.”
Governor DeWine said an important part of the program is that local communities decide how the money is spent. “It’s been my feeling for many years, some of our greatest assets in this state are the Ohio River and other waterways.”
The Governor said the development will attract tourists and provide opportunities for local citizens to use the riverfront. His announcement of, “Today I’m announcing an award of $32.4 million to Portsmouth,” was met by enthusiastic applause and a standing ovation from the crowd. “This is your plan. We’re funding it because we believe in you.”
Among the projects are a new amphitheater named in honor of opera singer Kathleen Battle and a makeover of Alexandria Point Park that includes a new fishing dock and a scenic overlook. Also on the list are a new street art project and campground, improvements to Doyle’s Landing boat launch, and new recreational pathways along the river.
Governor DeWine pointed out that previous grant money had gone to improve access to healthcare, offer job training, and improve historic downtowns in Ohio’s Appalachian Counties.