Portman Applauds $6.3 Million in ARC POWER Grants to Communities Across Ohio

Source: United States Senator for Ohio Rob Portman

September 16, 2021 | Press Releases

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-OH) applauded the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) for awarding $6.3 million in POWER grants to communities around Ohio. POWER grants are a congressionally funded initiative that targets federal resources to help communities and regions that have been affected by job losses in coal mining, coal power plant operations, and coal-related supply chain industries due to the changing economics of America’s energy production. These funds will give these entities the ability to support Ohio communities in their effort to utilize the economic development of that area. Portman released the following statement:

“These ARC POWER grants are great news because they will help ensure that these entities have the resources needed to address emerging infrastructure needs, to support entrepreneurship, and to help the economic development of towns and local communities throughout Ohio.”

The following entities received grants:

·       Washington Electric Cooperative — $1,500,000 for broadband deployment

·       Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia — $1,493,716 for investments in trail and gateway community assets

·       Switzerland of Ohio School District — $1,314,800 for workforce development

·       Urban Mission Ministries — $980,374 for workforce development focused on individuals in recovery

·       Belmont College — $445,158 for HVAC training program

·       Noble Local School District — $404,856 for workforce development focused on agribusiness

·       Eastgate Regional Council of Governments — $50,000 for a regional utility strategy

·       Morgan County Commissioners — $50,000 for broadband asset mapping

·       City of Struthers — $50,000 for strategic plan for green manufacturing

·       University of Cincinnati – Clermont — $50,000 to develop plans for regional training in supply chain and logistics

NOTE: Portman sent letters of support on behalf of Washington Electric Cooperative, University of Cincinnati – Clermont, Morgan County Commissioners, Eastgate Regional Council of Governments, Urban Mission Ministries, and Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia to the Federal Co-Chair of the ARC.

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