By Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jim Tressel, and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik have announced $14 million in grants to support the creation of workforce housing in 10 counties.
The funding comes from the second round of the Residential Economic Development District (REDD) program, which is providing up to $15 million in grants this fiscal year to help communities expand housing opportunities close to major economic development projects.
“As we continue bringing new jobs and new opportunities to our great state, we need to make sure the people filling those jobs can find a home nearby,” said Governor DeWine. “These awards will help local communities support new growth, and create chances for more Ohioans to live the lives they’ve always wanted.”
“We all know that new businesses can bring tremendous opportunities, but our communities ultimately need the right foundation to make the most of it,” said Lt. Governor Tressel.
“These targeted investments will help our local partners prepare for what’s ahead by supporting the housing and infrastructure our workforce needs to succeed.”
Development received 32 eligible applications for this round of funding, totaling nearly $69 million in requests.
“Every community has an important role to play in Ohio’s continued growth,” said Director Mihalik. “Whether it’s in one of our largest cities or smaller towns, we want all Ohioans to be able to find a good job, a great place to live, and a community they’re proud to call home. That’s what this program is all about.”
The REDD program was introduced by Senator Michele Reynolds in the state’s biennial budget bill, House Bill 96, and championed by Leader Dani Isaacsohn and Rep. Adam Mathews in the House. House Bill 96 was signed into law by Governor DeWine last year.
“As the primary sponsor of the REDD program, I’m proud to see this vision producing real, tangible results for communities across Ohio. REDD was designed to help communities overcome infrastructure barriers, unlock new housing opportunities, and leverage public investment to attract significant private development,” said Sen. Reynolds.
“This next round of projects demonstrates a powerful return on that investment — turning targeted state resources into new homes, stronger neighborhoods, and growing communities. It’s rewarding to see a program we created doing exactly what it was intended to do: putting public dollars to work in a way that delivers lasting results for Ohioans.”
“Providing greater access to housing is essential to our state’s continued economic growth and to making the American Dream possible for more of Ohio’s families,” said Rep. Mathews.
“I’m encouraged by the success we’ve seen with this program and grateful to see communities across Ohio supporting new opportunities for housing development.”
In total, $25 million has been allocated for the program, with more than $9 million in grants being awarded through the first round in March 2026.
Local governments located within 20 miles of a major economic development project were eligible to apply for funding to expand housing-related infrastructure, strengthen public safety and community services, or provide capital to support new housing development.
The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio’s people, places, and businesses. Learn more about our work at development.ohio.gov.
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