Ohio Puts $21 Million Toward Safer Sidewalks and Bike Paths
Community — Ohio
Ohio invests $21 million to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists through 17 projects across 16 counties; Northeast Ohio's inclusion remains unclear.
COLUMBUS — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Transportation Director Pamela Boratyn announced more than $21 million in new funding to improve safety for people who walk and bike across the state. The money comes through ODOT's Transportation Alternatives Program, known as TAP, and will support 17 projects spread across 16 counties. A full list naming those counties and communities had not been released at the time of this report, so it remains unclear whether any Northeast Ohio projects were selected. Governor Emphasizes Community Impact "These new projects are about more than just paving a path; they're about making communities safer and more vibrant," DeWine said. "This is an investment in Ohio's future and a commitment to building a more connected, healthy, and accessible state for all." TAP dollars fund a range of project types. Eligible categories include on and off road pedestrian and bicycle facilities, infrastructure that improves access to public transportation, community improvement activities, environmental mitigation, recreational trail projects and Safe Routes to School projects. Safety Message Extends to Drivers Boratyn tied the funding to a broader safety message that extends beyond construction. "Safety is always our top priority, no matter the mode of transportation," she said. "These partnerships with local governments significantly contribute to keeping Ohioans who walk and bike safe, but we also need motorists to do their part. Drop the distractions, pay attention, obey the speed limit, and drive sober." How Projects Were Selected ODOT chose projects through a scoring system built around three priorities: safety, connectivity and preservation. Officials said funding favored areas with high demand for walking and biking infrastructure and communities ready to move projects forward quickly. Selections also balanced short term infrastructure projects that could be delivered fast alongside larger projects considered significant statewide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money has Ohio allocated for improving sidewalks and bike paths?
Ohio has allocated $21 million through the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists across the state.
What program is funding these improvements in Ohio?
The improvements are funded through ODOT's Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), which supports a range of projects including pedestrian and bicycle facilities, public transportation access, and recreational trails.
Which counties in Ohio are receiving these funds?
The funding supports 17 projects across 16 counties, but a full list of counties and communities had not been released at the time of the report.
Why did Governor DeWine emphasize these projects?
Governor DeWine emphasized the projects as investments in Ohio's future, aiming to make communities safer, more vibrant, and more connected while promoting health and accessibility.
How were the projects selected for funding?
Projects were selected using a scoring system prioritizing safety, connectivity, and preservation, with funding favoring areas with high demand and communities ready to move projects forward quickly.