DeWine announces $12M-plus to Lawrence Co.

May 8—PROCTORVILLE — Gov. Mike DeWine appeared in Proctorville to announce funding to enhance access to local waterways in multiple communities of Lawrence County, Ohio.

DeWine reported $12.7 million in grant funding is coming to South Point, Burlington, Proctorville and Ironton to "revitalize historic riverfront downtowns, and create new tourism and recreational opportunities," he said.

"When we launched this program, we asked our Appalachian communities to think big, and that's exactly what they did. The projects we're announcing today were developed by those living in our Appalachian riverfront communities because no one knows what's needed to make this region thrive better than those who live here," DeWine said in a press release.

The stop in Proctorville Monday was one of many throughout the state for DeWine, who announced $152 million for communities in 12 counties.

The village of Proctorville was awarded $5,206,800.

"Critical improvements will be made to the Proctorville Lock 27 site, including repairs and enhancements of a 1,400-foot sea wall. The redevelopment also includes the creation of a full-service marina capable of housing 100 riverboats, the installation of a boat launch, a floating dock, a boat house, shelter houses, recreational equipment, lighting, and a bicycle/pedestrian trail connection," the press release said.

Burlington was awarded $1,003,660.

"The riverfront Burlington Park will be redeveloped to include the construction of a small floating dock, ADA access, park facility improvements, sidewalks, benches, and a river observation area for visitors. Additionally, a large shelter house will be constructed to house a farmers market and community events. A trail interconnection will also be made to the nearby Burlington 37 cemetery," the release said.

The village of South Point was awarded $1,274,700.

"The village of South Point's riverfront park is a unique stop along the river, allowing views of three states and the southernmost point of Ohio. Improvements to the park include the construction of a floating dock, reconstruction of a retaining wall on the overlook, installing ADA access from the docks up to the park, shelter house improvements, lighting, sidewalks and a riverfront bike-pedestrian path along 1st Street," the release said.

The city of Ironton was awarded $5,277,310.

"The city of Ironton plans to complement two projects including current riverfront recreation investments by constructing a multi-use trail, sea walls to accommodate large vessel docking, amenities for full boat services, improvements to circulation trails, and lighting enhancements. Ironton will also renovate the nearby historic Ro-Na Theatre including finishes of walls and ceilings, leveling of floors, HVAC, lighting, trims, balcony, historic railings, restrooms, upstairs space, and façade features," the release said.

"Ohio's Wonderful Waterfront" projects are funded through the Appalachian Community Grant Program, according to the governor's website.