State Rep. Bob Peterson | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Rep. Bob Peterson | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Representative Bob Peterson announced that the Ohio House of Representatives has concurred with Senate amendments to Sub. House Bill 54, Ohio’s Transportation Budget. The bill, which allocates funding for the state's transportation system, aims to advance infrastructure development and maintenance for fiscal years 2026 and 2027.
Sub. House Bill 54 plans to invest over $11.48 billion in highway construction and maintenance while providing funds for safety upgrades on Ohio roadways. It includes measures designed to preserve infrastructure, promote economic growth, and enhance public safety.
“The Transportation Budget is a critical investment into the future of our state,” said Peterson. “This funding will uplift our workforce through job creation and improve the transportation infrastructure Ohioans utilize every day.”
The Senate's agreed changes include removing a requirement for contractors to indemnify railroad companies against damage from contractor negligence in grade separation improvements, earmarking $3 million annually for Regional Transportation Planning Organizations (RTPOs), requiring proof of U.S. citizenship during BMV transactions for voter registration offers, authorizing schools to operate vehicles transporting up to 12 passengers, and mandating ODOT assistance with snow removal and other services under certain conditions.
Sub. House Bill 54 also allocates more than $393 million for new highway construction projects aimed at improving long-term transportation infrastructure. Additionally, it supports economic development by appropriating $13.5 million each year for the Ohio Workforce Mobility Partnership Program, which aids workforce transportation in rural and urban areas.
The legislation increases funding for Transportation Improvement Districts (TIDs) to $9 million annually to foster job creation through economic development initiatives. Furthermore, it establishes the Division of Advanced Air Mobility within ODOT as part of ongoing innovation efforts.
For public safety enhancements, Sub. House Bill 54 dedicates $382 million over two years toward targeted roadway safety upgrades while committing over $4.1 billion for highway system maintenance operations such as roadway replacement and bridge upkeep.
The bill now awaits the Governor's signature.
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