State budget proposal includes over $5 million for Tuscarawas County projects
COLUMBUS – The Ohio House and Senate have approved more than $5 million for Tuscarawas County projects that range from pickleball courts to Revolutionary War memorials.
The funds are part of Ohio’s $4 billion 2027-2028 biennial capital budget that is not final until Governor Mike DeWine signs it.
Projects slated to receive funds include Fort Laurens ($2.4 million), Zoar Village ($982,000), Strasburg Community Center Amphitheater ($600,000), Dover City Park ($300,000), New Philadelphia South Side Trail ($250,000), Tuscarawas Memorial Park ($250,000), Reeves Museum ($97,000), Little Theatre ($50,000), Gnadenhutten Pickleball Court ($50,000) and Roswell Park ($25,000).
Fort Laurens also received $3.2 million in the current budget. Ohio History Connection Spokesman Neil Thompson says the funds are being used for multiple upgrades, including a new memorial for the Tomb of the Unknown Patriot. They are rededicating that at a ceremony June 27.
The nearly $1 million dedicated to Zoar Village would be used for improvements and rehabilitation of the Sewing House and Zoar Hotel.
State Senator Al Landis highlighted some other projects in his district, including $375,000 for Cambridge Community Park, $247,000 for the Seiberling House Museum and #200,000 for the Putnam Hill Abolitionist Park Recreation Project.
“After working with local leaders and constituents, I’m proud to have secured this funding that I know will strengthen communities across the region,” said Senator Landis. “Whether it’s promoting accessibility at parks or investing in the arts at museums and theaters, these projects benefit the lives of the citizens I represent. I look forward to watching these projects have a positive effect throughout the district.”