Ohio Air Quality Development Authority

02/14/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/14/2025 22:48

OAQDA Approves Nearly $10 Million for Air Quality Improvement Projects in Hamilton County, Ohio

February 14, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 14, 2025

Media Contact: Katie Lundy
[email protected]

614-353-6476

OAQDAApproves Nearly $10 Million for Air Quality Improvement Projects in Hamilton County, Ohio

COLUMBUS - At its February meeting this week, The Ohio Air Quality Development Authority (OAQDA)approved nearly $10 millionin bond financing to support two projects aimed at improving economic growth and air quality in Ohio. Both projects will be provided financial assistance through OAQDA's Clean Air Improvement Program(CAIP). The combined impact from these projects includes economic benefits through the creation or preservation of over 50 local jobs with additional construction jobs as contracted, and over 110,000 kWh generated annually from rooftop solar systems. Sales tax benefits for both projects combined could reach nearly $300,000.

"These projects reflect OAQDA'songoing commitment to supporting businesses in their efforts to grow and expand operations, serving local economic development and public health needs," said Christina O'Keeffe, executive director of OAQDA. "We appreciate the partnership with the City of Cincinnati and other local partners to align and drive positive benefits through these projects that improve economic prosperity within their community."

Current projects approved through the Clean Air Improvement Program (CAIP):

  • Citadel Beechmont, LLCis approved for up to $7.25 million in bond financing to support clean air improvements as part of a new mixed-use building at 3674 BeechmontCourt, which provides additional warehouse, office and climate-controlled storage as part of an underutilized parcel of land in Cincinnati. The project includes energy-efficient upgrades which will include a 27.9 kW-DC solar array, as well as advanced HVACand LED lighting systems. The project is validated to achieve a 57.5 percent reduction in energy usage.
  • Ocean, LLC is approved for up to $2.2 million in bond financing to support clean air improvements as part of the expansion of Megen Construction Company, Inc. The building, owned by Ocean, LLC and leased to Megen, is located at 11130 Ashburn Road. Based in Cincinnati for 31 years, Megen is a commercial general contractor undertaking significant upgrades to enhance energy savings, retain jobs and reduce its environmental impact. The approved financing will fund a comprehensive package of energy-efficient improvements, including a 54.3 kW rooftop solar system, high-performance HVAC systems for optimal climate control and advanced LED lighting that exceeds energy code requirements.

OAQDA remains committed to assisting Ohio businesses and local governments in their efforts to foster economic growth and healthier communities. The CAIP program provides financial tools through bond financing, enabling companies to adopt energy-efficient and pollution-control solutions that contribute to better air quality in Ohio. To learn more about OAQDA's programs visit ohioairquality.ohio.gov.

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The Ohio Air Quality Development Authority (OAQDA)is a non-regulatory government agency working to position Ohio as a leader in harmonizing a strong economy and a healthy environment. Since its creation in 1970, OAQDA has worked to improve air quality by supporting businesses, creating jobsand improving communities while enhancing the health and safety of all Ohioans. To date, OAQDA has awarded more than $6 billionto finance air quality projects. For more information about OAQDA and its services, please visit ohioairquality.org.