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NILES -- Gov. Mike DeWine, Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik announced Friday $14 million in grants to support the creation of workforce housing in 10 counties.
One of the communities receiving funds is Niles, which will receive a $1 million grant to develop public infrastructure and create workforce housing within the Mahoning Valley.
The funding comes from the second round of the Residential Economic Development District program, which is providing up to $15 million in grants this fiscal year to help communities expand housing opportunities close to major economic development projects.
The infrastructure will serve households earning 80% to 120% of the Area Median Income, defined as the middle household income for a specific geographic region.
That figure is calculated every year by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, where half of the families earn more and half earn less.
The project supports housing demand created by investments by the Youngstown Air Reserve Station, Ultium Cells and HomeGoods, according to a list of the year's REDD grants.
"As we continue bringing new jobs and new opportunities to our great state, we need to make sure the people filling those jobs can find a home nearby," DeWine said. "These awards will help local communities support new growth and create chances for more Ohioans to live the lives they've always wanted."