VA Memorial Stadium improvements, other projects to be funded under construction budget

COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives on Wednesday passed Substitute House Bill 2, the state’s two-year construction budget for capital projects throughout the state.

State Rep. Bob Peterson (R-Sabina) and State Rep. Mark Johnson (R-Chillicothe) announced Ross County projects that are included in the bill.

• $500,000 to renovate Veterans Administration Memorial Stadium, home of the Chillicothe Paints, to install a turf field, replace outfield wall and seating; and
• $250,000 to construct the Paint Creek Youth Center Multipurpose Building that will accommodate therapy rooms, meeting space, a campus dining hall, and a commercial kitchen in Bainbridge.

“Creating common spaces for residents to gather is important to have in our communities,” said Peterson in a news release . “I look forward to seeing the completion of both projects.”

“The historic V.A. Memorial Stadium has been a cornerstone of the Chillicothe community since 1955,” said Johnson. “Making stadium improvements will allow more fans to enjoy the space for generations to come.”

Johnson also announced one-time funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund that will directly serve the 92nd House District and the surrounding communities, including $5 million to construct the Hopewell Regional Visitor Center, promoting Ohio’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.