The Ohio Public Works Commission was created to assist in financing local public infrastructure improvements under the State Capital Improvement Program (SCIP) and the Local Transportation Improvements Program (LTIP). These programs provide financial assistance to local communities for the improvement of their basic infrastructure systems. Through the two programs, the Commission provides grants, loans, and financing for local debt support and credit enhancement. Eligible projects include improvements to roads, bridges, culverts, water supply systems, wastewater systems, storm water collection systems, and solid waste disposal facilities.

The State Capital Improvement Program was created in 1987 and renewed in 1995 and 2005, by amendments creating Sections 2k, 2m and 2p, Article VIII of the Ohio Constitution. These Constitutional provisions allow the State to use its general revenues as debt support and issue general obligation bonds. The State may issue up to $120 million through Program Year 25 and then $150 million in Program Years 26 through 30.

The Local Transportation Improvement Program was created by the legislature in 1989 and provides approximately $70 million in gasoline tax receipts each year.

It is estimated that these funds will meet only two to three percent of Ohio's infrastructure financial needs between now and the year 2010. Therefore, local communities need to develop their own plan for identifying and financing their infrastructure needs. The Commission has developed a standardized Capital Improvements Report (CIR) that will provide the framework to accomplish this goal. The Commission hopes the CIR will be both a learning process and a long term benefit for each subdivision.

Funding and the Commission
To apply for State Capital Improvement Program funds or Local Transportation Improvement Program funds the subdivision must apply to its District Public Works Integrating Committee (DPWIC). The Ohio General Assembly created 19 Public Works Districts that are responsible for recommending projects to the Ohio Public Works Commission. DPWICs consist of local officials repre senting all levels of government. Each DPWIC evaluates and scores applications using a locally developed methodology based on criteria listed in Chapter 164 of the Ohio Revised Code. These evaluation criteria focus on the financial need of the subdivision, the project's strategic importance to the district and subdivision, and emphasize the repair and replacement of infrastructure rather than new and expansionary infrastructure.

After evaluating and scoring the projects, the DPWIC creates a list of high priority projects that are submitted to the Ohio Public Works Commission. The Commission reviews the project selection and evaluation methodology used by the DPWIC to ensure fair and objective decision making. Then, each application is reviewed for completeness and project eligibility. After all requirements are met on the district level and the application is approved, a formal agreement is issued by the Ohio Public Works Commission to the individual subdivision. The Commission's staff maintains ongoing contact with local communities, providing technical assistance through the project's completion.

For more information on either of the Commission's Programs, please write the Ohio Public Works Commission at 65 East State Street, Suite 312, Columbus, OH 43215 or call (614) 466-0880.