The Hamilton County community has initiated the construction of a new Regional Safety Complex, addressing long-standing concerns about noise pollution from an existing firing range. The current facility, active for approximately 300 days annually, has been a source of distress for around 2,300 residents within its vicinity, many of whom are children.
The new complex will be situated alongside the County Sheriff’s training location in Colerain Township at 9500 East Miami River Rd. Commission President Alicia Reece stated that this $31 million project represents a significant investment by the county to address environmental injustice and restore hope to the Lincoln Heights community. "We've worked tirelessly to reach this point," she remarked.
Commissioner Denise Driehaus expressed satisfaction with the collaborative efforts that led to this development. "After more than four years of working with various stakeholders, I am incredibly pleased the sound of daily gunshots in Lincoln Heights is coming to an end," she said.
Stephanie Summerow Dumas also highlighted her commitment since 2014 as Village Manager to close the gun range due to its impact on community health and well-being. As commissioner, she emphasized securing necessary funding for relocating the range.
U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown underscored federal support in relocating the range and improving public safety through enhanced law enforcement training facilities. Mayor Aftab Pureval described the project as a triumph for environmental justice and public health achieved through multi-level government collaboration.
Vice Mayor Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney and State Representative Cindy Abrams praised the project's potential for promoting justice and providing high-quality training for officers. Woodlawn's Mayor Brian Poole quoted Thomas Jefferson, emphasizing government's role in ensuring human life and happiness.
The total cost of constructing Hamilton County's Regional Safety Complex is estimated at $31.65 million, primarily funded by Hamilton County Commissioners who allocated $20.4 million from various sources including ARPA funds and general funds. Additional contributions include $4.25 million from Cincinnati City, $4 million from federal grants sponsored by Sen. Brown, and $3 million from Ohio State legislation HB33-2024-106.
Phase 1 construction begins with building a temporary gun range while demolishing existing structures; it is expected to last one year under Monarch Construction's contract which dedicates part of its budget towards minority-owned businesses participation.
Phase II involves completing new facilities featuring multiple firing lanes scheduled for completion by mid-2026.