WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced that the Senate Appropriations Committee passed $9.3 million in federal funding for projects in Ohio that will enhance preparedness for the men and women serving our country in the Ohio National Guard. The funding, which was secured by Brown, was included in the FY2011 Senate Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill.

"These funds will provide support for our troops while creating jobs in the process," Brown said. "Defense research and development does not only support our military, it enhances the commercial viability of new technologies. The funding in this bill will help Ohio institutions to lead the way in developing better equipment for our service members and new technology for our nation."

The list of projects that would receive funds can be found below. The bill must be passed by the full Senate and conference with the House before heading to the president's desk for signature.

$2,000,000- Building Renovation- Ohio National Guard Blue Ash Air National Guard Station
This project would renovate the primary maintenance shop at the Blue Ash Air National Guard Station.  The building houses all of the communications equipment and vehicles of the 123rd.  This project will replace the antiquated electrical and lighting systems, replace the inefficient HVAC system, and insulate the extremely inefficient concrete block walls and replace the roof.  The renovation will enhance unit readiness by improving maintenance capabilities and increase the energy efficiency of the facility.

$7,300,000- Security Forces Complex Construction- Ohio National Guard Toledo Air National Guard Base
This project would construct training and operations space for the base's security forces.  It would replace outdated and under facilities that do not meet current requirements.  The Base Realignment and Closure process assigned three additional aircraft to the 180th Fighter Wing to conduct an Air Sovereignty mission.  This mission requires aircraft to be ready to respond within minutes.  For mission readiness, the base requires adequately sited, and configured security police complex to support 18 PAI F-16 aircraft.

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