Rep. Sykes Announces 20 Local Projects Totaling $89 Million for Ohio’s 13th Congressional District to Advance in Community Project Funding Process

April 03, 2026

Rep. Sykes Announces 20 Local Projects Totaling $89 Million for Ohio's 13th Congressional District to Advance in Community Project Funding Process

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) announced 20 community projects she has submitted for consideration in the Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) appropriations process. Together, the projects total $89,186,557 for Ohio's 13th Congressional District.

"I'm proud to submit these 20 local projects that would bring millions of taxpayer dollars back to our community," said Rep. Sykes. "From clean drinking water, affordable housing, and safer roads to public safety and job creation, these projects reflect the needs of our communities and would make life better for families across our district. Over the next few months, I'll keep working to pass a responsible federal budget that includes funding for these vital priorities."

Each year, members of Congress can submit projects to the House Appropriations Committee for consideration to receive specialized federal funding that is included in the appropriations bills that Congress passes annually to fund the federal government. This year, the number of projects that may be submitted increased to 20, from 15 in previous years. The House Appropriations Committee will now review each project to determine which will ultimately be included in appropriations bills later this year.

The Community Project Funding process allows members of Congress to work closely with community partners and stakeholders to identify projects of regional importance. This year, a total of 89 projects were submitted to Rep. Sykes for consideration. She will continue working closely with Ohio's senators to encourage them to advocate for additional projects from our community.

Below are the summaries of the 20 projects submitted by Rep. Sykes, along with quotes from the sponsoring organizations. Projects are listed in alphabetical order.

AxessPointe Health Integrated Community Hub: $4 million

Requestor: Axess Family Services, Inc.

AxessPointe Community Health Centers play a critical role in addressing chronic disease and barriers to healthcare access. This project will consolidate services into an expanded facility at AxessPointe's West Market Street location in Akron. This location is part of a collaborative campus with the LeBron James Family Foundation and Coleman Health Services, bringing together healthcare, behavioral health, education, and workforce services.

The upgraded facility will include 10 new exam rooms for medical, dental, and vision care. It will also create dedicated space for community health workers who help patients navigate services like insurance, appointments, and social support. By combining services in one place, patients won't need to travel between different locations to get care.

"This Community Project Funding request represents a critical opportunity to expand access to care in West Akron. As a Federally Qualified Health Center, we see every day the growing demand among uninsured and underinsured individuals-and the real barriers to care across Akron's highest-need communities. Being considered for congressional funding is both an honor and a reflection of the urgency of this work. If awarded, this investment would be transformative, allowing us to expand integrated primary care, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, and optometry services, remove long-standing barriers, and reach more families with the high-quality, affordable care they deserve. The impact would be immediate and long-lasting, strengthening the health and future of our entire community," said Mark Frisone, Executive Director of Axess Family Services.

Cascade Village Preservation & Revitalization Initiative: $2 million

Requestor: Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority

On April 1, the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority (AMHA) assumed full ownership and operational oversight of Cascade Village, a 242-unit mixed-income family housing community located in Akron that includes 106 Public Housing units, 58 Low-Income Housing Tax Credit units, and 78 Market-Rate units.

This project focuses on renovating Cascade Village to make it safer and more livable for families. Planned upgrades include roof replacement, elevator repairs and modernization, building system upgrades, HVAC replacements, and other structural and interior improvements that will improve safety, accessibility, and quality of life for residents. Some vacant apartments will be repaired so they can be inhabited again, increasing available housing.

"We are incredibly grateful to Congresswoman Sykes for her leadership. The Cascade Village Preservation & Revitalization Initiative Project represents a critical investment in one of Akron's largest mixed-income housing communities, ensuring that 242 units of much-needed affordable housing are preserved and strengthened for the families we serve. AMHA is committed to stabilizing the property, improving living conditions, and restoring full occupancy at a time when more than 30,000 individuals are seeking housing in our community. This investment would not only modernize the property but also create opportunities for residents to thrive through stable housing and access to resources that support long-term success," said Herman L. Hill, Executive Director of the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority.

Clinton Sewer & Water Regionalization Program: $12 million

Requestor: Village of Clinton

This project will build new public sewer and drinking water systems in the Village of Clinton and southern New Franklin, areas that currently rely on individual septic tanks and wells. Many of these systems are old or failing, which can lead to sewage leaking into nearby rivers and groundwater. The new infrastructure will reduce pollution in the Tuscarawas River watershed and improve public health. It will also make it easier for businesses to expand, since they won't need to install their own water and wastewater systems.

"I would like to thank Emilia Sykes and her entire staff for the time and work they have put into our community. It is greatly needed and appreciated by our entire community," said Clinton Mayor Bud McDaniel.

"This critical infrastructure project will truly benefit the City of New Franklin and the Village of Clinton, where many residents have long relied on aging septic systems and wells that are increasingly unreliable. We are deeply grateful for this support, which reflects a shared commitment to provide safe, reliable water and wastewater services that promote healthy, flourishing communities," said New Franklin Mayor Steve Rector.

Copley Road East Trail: $2 million

Requestor: Copley Township

The Copley Road East Trail will connect Copley Circle to Copley Community Park through a safe, ADA-accessible, multi-use path. Currently, Copley Circle and the Township's 80-acre Copley Community Park are located less than one mile apart, but there is currently no safe way for residents to walk or bike between them. Travelers must rely on State Route 162, where no dedicated sidewalks or multi-use facilities exist. Within this one-mile radius are both Copley-Fairlawn Arrowhead Primary School and Copley-Fairlawn Middle School, meaning students and families must rely almost entirely on vehicle travel despite the close proximity of key community destinations. This project improves everyday safety and expands access to parks, schools, and local destinations, creating more equitable opportunities for residents to move through the community.

"We sincerely thank Congresswoman Emilia Sykes for her support of the Copley Road East Trail Project," said Jim Schulte, Chair of the Copley Township Board of Trustees. "This transformational investment will improve safety and expand multimodal access by connecting key community destinations, including Copley Circle and Copley Community Park. The project reflects our commitment to building modern infrastructure that strengthens quality of life and supports the future of Copley Township."

Cuyahoga Falls Gorge Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project: $20 million

Requestor: City of Cuyahoga Falls

This project will replace and relocate the 100-year-old Gorge Interceptor sewer from the Gorge Metro Park and connect more than 6,000 feet of new sanitary sewer to Akron's Northside Tunnel at Front Street. It will improve local infrastructure, increase storage capacity during heavy rain, and eliminate two sanitary sewer overflows that discharge into the Cuyahoga River.

"We appreciate Rep. Sykes' partnership in advancing the Gorge Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project," said Cuyahoga Falls Mayor Don Walters. "By replacing 1,800 feet of century-old sanitary sewer located in Gorge Metro Park, this project will improve water quality of the Cuyahoga River, prioritize public health, and reduce sewer overflow risks across the entire area."

Fulton/25th/Harrison Roundabout: $2 million

Requestor: City of Canton

This project will replace a traditional traffic light intersection with a roundabout to improve traffic flow. Drivers will no longer need to wait at long red lights, reducing congestion and delays. The design will also include safer crossings for pedestrians and better access for cyclists. This is especially important because the intersection connects Canton McKinley High School and Stadium Park, the City of Canton's largest park. The improvements will make it easier and safer for students and residents to reach these locations without relying on a car.

"The City of Canton is grateful to move forward in the funding process for the Fulton/25th/Harrison Roundabout Project. This investment will improve safety for both pedestrians and motorists, and decrease congestion, all the while enhancing access to our neighborhoods and highways. We are thankful to Congresswoman Sykes for this consideration that will strengthen the safety of our community," said Canton Mayor William V. Sherer II.

Growing Green Wetland Placemaking Project: $200,000

Requestor: City of Green

This project will enhance an existing wetland area, located at the Green Middle School campus, and turn it into a more accessible public space. The wetland already helps reduce flooding by managing stormwater from surrounding neighborhoods. It also improves water quality by filtering pollutants before they reach downstream areas. The Growing Green Wetland Placemaking Project seeks to create an accessible, peaceful public space for residents seeking quiet reflection and wildlife observation. By expanding this centrally located natural space into a welcoming public amenity, the project supports equitable access to nature, particularly for local families and seniors who may not easily reach larger parks on the city's outskirts.

"The Growing Green Wetland is a collaborative initiative between the City of Green and Green Local Schools designed to transform an existing natural space into a fully accessible, technology-enhanced outdoor learning and community gathering destination," said Green Mayor Rocco Yeargin. "These improvements will support hands-on STEM learning for students while simultaneously creating a shared community space for residents, families, and local organizations. The Growing Green Wetland project represents more than a physical improvement - it is an investment in community connection, education, and long-term sustainability."

Kent State University Airport Improvements: $6.1 million

Requestor: Kent State University Airport

This project will add new taxi lanes and aircraft parking areas at the Kent State University Airport. These upgrades will help the airport meet current safety and design standards. The project will keep the airport functioning efficiently and safely for pilots, students, and the community. The Kent State University Airport is a community general aviation airport with the largest number of operations per year in the state. The airport averages 198 aircraft operations per day, totaling 72,500 annually.

"We are deeply grateful to Congresswoman Sykes for her leadership and support of this critical investment in the Kent State University Airport, a public-use airport serving Northeast Ohio. This project will immediately enhance safety and operational capacity while strengthening the airport's ability to serve the broader community and regional aviation needs. It also lays the foundation for future expansion, including public-use hangars, aviation maintenance and training facilities, and the Center for Advanced Air Mobility, supporting workforce development, economic growth, and innovation in aerospace and advanced mobility across the region," said Christina Bloebaum, Ph.D., Dean of Kent State University's College of Aeronautics and Engineering.

Massillon Salt Storage Facility Project: $900,000

Requestor: City of Massillon

This project will construct a new salt storage facility at the City of Massillon garage to properly store road salt used for winter maintenance of the city's roadways. Proper storage protects local waterways by preventing salt runoff and contamination while also improving the efficiency of winter maintenance operations. The facility will help ensure safe and reliable travel on city roadways during winter weather events.

"On behalf of the City of Massillon, we appreciate the support for this Community Project Funding, which will allow us to move forward with a new salt storage facility. This project will strengthen our operations, protect the environment, and help keep our roads safe during the winter," said Massillon Mayor Jamie Slutz.

North Canton 7th Streetscape & Bus Lane: $2 million

Requestor: City of North Canton

This project will improve a busy road near the North Canton City Schools campus, which serves about 2,500 students daily. Plans include adding a dedicated bus lane to reduce traffic congestion during drop-off and pick-up times and widening sidewalks to improve safety for students walking to school. The project will also add street trees, lighting, and other features to improve the area's appearance. These changes will make the road safer and more efficient for buses, cars, pedestrians, and cyclists.

"We are grateful to Congresswoman Emilia Sykes for advancing the 7th Street project. This investment in our city's future will support expanding North Canton City School campus, improve traffic flow and safety for motorists, pedestrians, students, and the many visitors traveling to our multiple athletic facilities in that area. Funding for this project will help the city achieve its vision of an active pedestrian core and beautification efforts which is outlined in our City's Master Plan. The dedicated bus lane is essential to preventing congestion on 7th Street and protecting traffic flow along North Main Street, one of our primary business corridors. Support of this request is so valuable to a small community with a limited budget as we work to make meaningful, lasting improvements for our community," said North Canton Mayor Matthew Stroia.

North Hills Water District Critical Water Main Replacement Project: $3 million

Requestor: North Hills Water District, serving Northfield Center and Sagamore Hills Townships

This project will replace aging water pipes that are 55 years old and prone to breaking. The North Hills Water District has had nine significant breaks in the last five years, significantly outpacing the break rate of the entire system. These frequent water main breaks have caused service disruptions and damage to nearby properties. New pipes will improve water pressure and reliability for residents. The upgrades will reduce maintenance costs and allow the water district to focus resources on other improvements. The project also provides direct benefit to residents of Northfield Center and Sagamore Hills Townships with reliable water service and fire protection and preserves water district resources for other projects.

"We would like to thank Congresswoman Sykes for the recognition of the importance of this project. North Hills Water District is a small entity, and we work to stretch every dollar. At a time when property taxes and utility rates are rising, we will be able to leverage this award to replace essential infrastructure without increases to resident's utility or tax bills," said Gerald Papile, Chair of the North Water District Board of Trustees.

Norton Commerce Park Waterline Project: $1 million

Requestor: City of Norton

This project will install a new 12-inch water main from Eastern Road north along 3,425 feet of South Cleveland-Massillon Road to 31st Street, including service connections and hydrant installation, and will abandon an existing 8-inch water main. The larger pipe will improve water pressure and provide more reliable service to homes and businesses. The upgrade will also allow new businesses to develop in the nearby Norton Commerce Park.

"The Norton Commerce Park Waterline Project is a critical investment in safe, reliable drinking water infrastructure that will strengthen system capacity, improve fire protection, and support long-term economic growth in our community," said Norton Mayor Mike Zita. "Extending a properly sized water main to the Commerce Park removes a key infrastructure barrier to development and positions Norton to attract new employers, support existing businesses, and create jobs. We thank Congresswoman Emilia Sykes for submitting this project for Community Project Funding and for her continued leadership in advocating for essential infrastructure that protects public health and drives economic opportunity in our region. Securing federal funding is essential to advancing this effort in a timely and cost-effective manner, reducing the burden on local taxpayers while accelerating construction and maximizing the project's long-term impact. With this support, Norton can move forward with confidence delivering critical infrastructure improvements that will serve our community for decades to come."

Project DEPOT: $6 million

Requestor: Development Finance Authority of Summit County

Project DEPOT (Defense Energy Polymer Occupational Training) will redevelop a former industrial property in Barberton into a training center for high-demand manufacturing jobs. The facility will focus on skills like welding and metalwork needed for defense-related industries. It is expected to train about 500 people each year. The program will help fill a shortage of skilled workers, especially for shipbuilding and submarine construction. It will also provide local residents with access to well-paying career opportunities. This project is a collaboration between the Barberton Community Foundation and the Development Finance Authority of Summit County.

"We are incredibly grateful to Congresswoman Emilia Sykes for requesting support for The DEPOT for FY27 Community Project Funding. Anchored by BWX Technologies, Inc. (BWXT), a leading supplier of nuclear components and fuel to the U.S. government whose Barberton facility has long been at the forefront of producing complex components for the U.S. Navy's nuclear propulsion program, The DEPOT will establish the Midwest's premier defense workforce training center, bringing together multiple employers to deliver industry-driven training for the workers and industries our region and nation urgently need. The Development Finance Authority of Summit County is proud to serve as lead applicant on this project and is deeply grateful for Congresswoman Sykes' commitment to this critical regional priority," said Rachel Bridenstine, President of the Development Finance Authority of Summit County.

"Barberton Community Foundation has been building toward this moment. Through an EDA Planning and Local Technical Assistance grant, BCF retained the Society of Manufacturing Engineers to conduct an independent feasibility study of The DEPOT. Their findings confirmed what we believed: there is a clear and urgent workforce gap in our region, Barberton is the right place to address it, and this facility is ready to meet that need. I want to stress that we are still in the planning stages of this project, bringing together the partnerships, financing, and infrastructure needed to make The DEPOT a reality. It will bring together multiple employers to deliver industry-driven training alongside wraparound services that address the real barriers workers face every day - transportation, childcare, housing navigation, and case management - because we know that training alone is not enough for the people we are trying to reach. The DEPOT will complement - not compete with - existing training programs across Ohio, serving as a regional hub that builds the pipeline of skilled workers that our defense and polymer industries urgently need. BCF is proud to partner in this effort alongside DFA and BWXT, and we are deeply grateful to Congresswoman Sykes for her leadership and vision for our community," said Josh Gordon, Executive Director of the Barberton Community Foundation.

Reminderville Stormwater Flooding Mitigation: $4.4 million

Requestor: City of Reminderville

This project will reduce flooding in a residential neighborhood adjacent to Aurora Lake that regularly experiences water damage. Improvements will include new drainage systems and a bypass channel to redirect water flow. These changes are expected to reduce major flood levels by nearly half. The project will protect homes, roads, and emergency access routes while improving overall safety.

"We are grateful to Congresswoman Emilia Sykes for her support in securing federal funding for this critical flood mitigation project in the City of Reminderville. For years, residents in this neighborhood have experienced repeated flooding due to challenging topography, poorly draining soils, and downstream tailwater conditions. This project will address key stormwater constraints and reduce modeled 100-year flood depths by approximately 46 percent," said Jason Popiel of OHM Advisors. "This investment will significantly reduce flood risk, protect homes and public infrastructure, and ensure reliable emergency access during major storm events. Just as importantly, it strengthens our community's resilience to increasingly intense rainfall and helps safeguard our residents and neighborhoods for the long term."

Stark County Family Justice Center - Stark County: $5.5 million

Requestor: Stark County Board of Commissioners

The Stark County Board of Commissioners is seeking funding to purchase and renovate an existing building to launch a Family Justice Center in Stark County that provides coordinated, wraparound services in one safe and compassionate location for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and abuse. This building will house multiple services in one location; implement a shared intake system that is survivor-led and allows communication and coordination of services; provide civil legal services; and increase knowledge, understanding, and participation in the criminal justice system.

"We are so grateful for the continued support from Congresswoman Sykes with our Family Justice Center. This public health crisis of domestic violence here in Stark County requires action. The Stark County Family Justice Center will collaborate with other agencies to assist survivors to thrive and receive all the support they need in one place! This appropriation request will allow us to elevate our fight against domestic violence to the next level. Once again we are thankful for Congresswoman Sykes' willingness to support the Stark County Commissioners and Stark County Prosecutor's Office in our efforts to protect the citizens of Stark County," said Stark County Prosecuting Attorney Kyle Stone.

Stow Bike & Hike Spur: $3 million

Requestor: City of Stow

This project would allow residents to better access the City of Stow's Market District through the creation of the Bike & Hike Trail Spur. The Spur will allow for ADA accessibility and public access to the point of entry for the market district, which will include seating for outdoor dining and gathering, rest stations, a bike station with lockers, and restrooms that will be accessible 24 hours a day.

"On behalf of the City of Stow, we are honored that the Bike & Hike Spur has been submitted for FY27 Community Project Funding. This project represents a transformative investment in safe, connected, and accessible mobility for our residents. The planned spur will link neighborhoods, parks, and commercial areas directly to the regional Bike & Hike Trail, creating new opportunities for recreation, active transportation, and economic vibrancy," said Stow Mayor John Pribonic. "Importantly, the project will strengthen regional connectivity by creating a new nexus point between Stow and our surrounding communities. By tying our community assets more directly into the broader trail network, the spur supports shared economic benefits, enhances access to amenities, and deepens collaboration across city boundaries. We are grateful for Congresswoman Emilia Sykes' continued leadership and commitment to supporting community-focused infrastructure. Her advocacy helps advance projects like this that improve quality of life and strengthen the fabric of our region."

SUM Highland Road - City of Macedonia: $2,256,557

Requestor: City of Macedonia

The SUM Highland Road Project would address safety and congestion issues at the intersection of State Route 8 and Highland Road. The improvements would extend east to South Bedford Road, and then north to Nordonia High School. The improvements would include upgrading traffic signals, adding dedicated turn lanes, and enhancing pedestrian access and ADA compliance.

"The City of Macedonia extends its sincere gratitude to Congresswoman Emilia Sykes for including the SUM Highland Project in her Fiscal Year 2027 Community Project Funding submission," said Macedonia Mayor Nick Molnar. "Securing Fiscal Year 2027 Community Project Funding would play a vital role in advancing this important infrastructure improvement. Grant support would not only help make the SUM Highland Project possible but would also allow the City of Macedonia to reallocate local funds toward additional roadway improvements, further benefiting residents, businesses, and visitors throughout the community."

Summit County Real Time Crime Center: $750,000

Requestor: Summit County

This project will help Summit County establish a Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) within the County-owned Summit Emergency Communications Center in Tallmadge. The RTCC will be a secure, technology-enabled hub that aggregates real-time public safety data, conducts live analytical support, and coordinates multi-agency response during active incidents and emergency events. This funding request will target the technology component of the RTCC, which will be integrated with Summit County's new 135-mile Public Safety Fiber Network. The technological component will enable integration of data sources and tools that allow officers to respond more quickly and make better decisions in the field. It will also improve coordination between different agencies during major incidents.

"We are grateful for Congresswoman Sykes's support of this project, which serves as a cornerstone for the future of our regional safety. This investment will assist the County and our partners in providing the essential technological foundation for a transformative initiative, ensuring first responders have the real-time insights and connectivity needed to protect and serve our communities more effectively than ever before," said Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro.

Village of Lakemore Pump Station Phase of Sanitary Sewer System Improvement Program: $1.98 million

Requestor: Village of Lakemore

This project will upgrade a pump station that is currently overwhelmed during heavy rainfall. Excess water can cause sewage backups into homes and overflows into nearby lakes. The improvements will increase the system's capacity to handle stormwater. This will reduce flooding and improve water quality in the area. The project addresses long-standing public health and environmental concerns.

"Replacing Lakemore's pump station is a critical step in protecting public health, improving water quality, and complying with Ohio EPA requirements," said Lakemore Mayor Richard Cole Jr. "This investment will help prevent sanitary sewer overflows, reduce water in basement events for our residents, and protect Springfield Lake from future discharges. We are grateful to Congresswoman Emilia Sykes for submitting this project for Community Project Funding and for her continued advocacy on behalf of small communities like Lakemore that need federal partnership to deliver essential infrastructure and environmental improvements."

Wolf Creek Dam Water Supply Protection Project: $5.8 million

Requestor: City of Barberton

This project will repair and upgrade a dam that supplies drinking water to 28,800 people, including 72 industrial facilities, across most of Barberton as well as portions of Norton and Akron. Protecting this asset is essential to public health, reliable drinking water service, and continued economic activity throughout the service area.

Planned improvements include strengthening the structure, reducing flood risks, and updating safety systems. The work will help the dam meet modern safety standards. It will also extend the dam's lifespan by about 50 years.

"Wolf Creek Dam and the Barberton Reservoir are the backbone of our community's drinking water system, serving nearly 29,000 residents and dozens of industrial employers across Barberton and neighboring communities," said Barberton Mayor William B. Judge. "This project is essential to protecting public health, ensuring long term water reliability, and safeguarding our city from flood risk. I am grateful to Congresswoman Emilia Sykes for her leadership and for submitting Barberton's request for Community Project Funding. Her continued advocacy for critical water infrastructure will help ensure our residents and regional partners have access to safe, reliable drinking water for decades to come."