New Construction

Ohio Approves $450M for Nine New K–12 Schools

• By Matt Jones
• 07/12/21

The commission that oversees school construction in the State of Ohio recently approved more than $242 million in state funds for the construction of nine new K–12 schools around the state. This figure combines with $208 million in local funds to set up $450 million in Ohio public education construction work. The spending package is the second of two that have been approved for educational facilities’ construction and renovation since the easing of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Ohio Facilities Construction Commission announced funding for multiple projects. These include $117 million to Cleveland city schools for two new PreK–8 buildings, a new high school, and renovations to a middle school (including $37.5 million in local funds); $103.2 million to Lancaster city schools for a new high school housing a career tech program (including $56.8 million in local funding); and $29 million for Metro Early College High School in Columbus, which is currently a K–12 STEM school that will relocate to a renovated Columbus middle school.

“We are pleased to support these local projects that will provide area students with an upgraded school environment and new learning opportunities,” said Ohio Gov. Mark DeWine. “Today’s OFCC action will continue to move education forward for many students throughout Ohio.”

The commission already approved $336 million in April for six K–12 building projects.