Columbus, Ohio — Governor Mike DeWine, along with Lt. Governor Jon Husted and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik, announced today the first major investment from the newly established All Ohio Future Fund. The initiative will see a $14.6 million allocation to Defiance County for critical infrastructure improvements aimed at transforming a 1,000-acre site into a prime location for major economic development projects.
The funding will support the installation of essential infrastructure at the Baltimore Avenue Industrial Corridor in Defiance, positioning the site to attract large corporations seeking project-ready property.
“This site has immense potential but has been overlooked due to a lack of basic infrastructure,” said Governor DeWine. “With the All Ohio Future Fund, we are setting the stage for Defiance County to become a leading destination for advanced manufacturing in Ohio.”
The All Ohio Future Fund, announced by Governor DeWine during his 2023 State of the State Address, is part of a broader strategy to ensure that all regions of Ohio benefit from the state’s economic growth. Since 2019, Ohio has attracted 59 companies from the East and West coasts, creating over 17,000 jobs and generating $41.5 billion in new capital investment.
At the Baltimore Avenue Industrial Corridor, the funding will be used to develop new water and wastewater infrastructure, enhance road access, and improve rail connectivity. This includes new construction projects connecting Rt. 424 and Whetstone Road to the site.
Lt. Governor Husted emphasized the importance of this investment: “Ohio is a prime location for business, and the demand for job-ready sites is high. This project will advance economic development in Defiance and the Northwest Ohio region, creating new employment opportunities for Ohioans.”
The Ohio General Assembly allocated $750 million to the All Ohio Future Fund in the current operating budget. The $14.6 million award to Defiance County was approved by the Controlling Board during its meeting today.
Lydia Mihalik, Director of the Department of Development, noted, “Ohio is an ideal place for businesses and families. Through the All Ohio Future Fund and similar programs, we are not only attracting jobs but also laying the groundwork for future success in our communities.”
Eligible uses of the fund include public roadwork, water and wastewater infrastructure, design and engineering, and site enhancements. Award recipients must secure site occupants within five years.
For more details about the All Ohio Future Fund, visit development.ohio.gov/AllOhioFutureFund.
