By 1808Delaware
Boarded windows and empty lots don’t have to be the last word on a property’s story. The Delaware County Land Bank announced that two more rounds of state funding will soon be available to help public and private partners demolish unsafe structures and clean up contaminated sites—bringing stalled parcels back into productive use.
Since the effort began in 2021, nearly $2.8 million in grants has already flowed to local governments, nonprofit agencies, and private developers across Delaware County. Now, as the Ohio Department of Development (ODOD) prepares its next cycles, the county is poised for another push.
What’s Coming in 2026–2027
The next two rounds of funding—aligned with the State of Ohio’s 2026 and 2027 fiscal years—set aside $2.96 million in guaranteed funds specifically for eligible projects in Delaware County. In addition to that set-aside, applicants can pursue statewide competitive grants to boost their project budgets even further.
“These programs are an extraordinary opportunity for public, nonprofit and private entities to obtain the funding needed to bring dilapidated and otherwise unusable properties back to productive use,” said Delaware County Commissioner Jeff Benton, who chairs the Land Bank.
How the Process Works
While applicants are not required to go through the Land Bank to submit brownfield grants to ODOD, the Land Bank serves as the county’s lead agency for demolition and remediation applications—and offers free guidance from staff and partner experts. That assistance can help organizations shape projects, assemble documentation, and navigate state requirements.
Who Should Consider Applying
- Local governments looking to tackle problem structures or long-troubled parcels
- Nonprofit organizations seeking to revitalize corridors, expand services, or catalyze housing
- Private developers with feasible reuse plans that depend on demolition or cleanup help
Typical project types include removing unsafe buildings, clearing sites for redevelopment, and remediating contamination that has blocked reinvestment.
Timeline: Prepare Now
The application period is expected to open later this fall. Because site assessments, cost estimates, and reuse concepts can take time, organizations are encouraged to begin lining up information and partners now so they’re ready when the window opens.
At a Glance
- Funds so far (since 2021): nearly $2.8 million to Delaware County projects
- Upcoming rounds: aligned with FY 2026 and FY 2027
- Local set-aside: $2.96 million in guaranteed funds for Delaware County
- Extra opportunity: apply for statewide competitive grants as well
- Cost to seek help from the Land Bank and its partners: no charge
Get Connected
For guidance or to discuss a potential project, contact Commissioner Jeff Benton at jbenton@co.delaware.oh.us. Program details are available from the Ohio Department of Development’s Building Demolition and Site Revitalization Program: https://development.ohio.gov/community/redevelopment/building-demolition-site-revitalization-program
Why It Matters
Every successful demolition or cleanup unlocks new possibilities—housing where none seemed feasible, fresh commercial space to fuel jobs, or green space that knits a neighborhood back together. With a new infusion of dollars on the way and hands-on help available locally, Delaware County’s toughest properties may be ready for a second act.
Image by Jiří Novotný from Pixabay
