professionals actually want to put down roots.” BRIDGES, RAIL, AND RIVER SYNERGY Washington County leverages its unique position on the Ohio River to transform legacy industrial sites into modern multimodal hubs. Roush identifies the redevelopment of two former coal-fired power plant sites, including the Muskingum River plant, as a primary component of the regional strategy.“These locations possess the heavy power infrastructure and river-to-rail access that modern manufacturers require,” he says. By converting these decommissioned plants into port facilities, the county attracts energy-intensive industries seeking logistics flexibility. Schilling explains that the integration of water, rail, and road transport reduces overhead for complex supply chains. “We are focusing on assets that provide a long-term economic return,” he notes.“A site offering both a navigable waterway and direct rail service is a premier destination for manufacturing.” Central to this logistics network is the restoration of the Historic Harmar Bridge, a rare piece of American engineering. Originally built in the 19th century, it is the last hand-cranked swinging railroad bridge in the country. Schilling describes the project as a critical link for the county’s walkability and tourism. “The bridge connects the Harmar Village district directly to downtown Marietta, facilitating the flow of foot traffic that supports local businesses,” he says. Roush adds that the bridge acts as a link between the county’s industrial past and its future as a recreational hub.“We are turning a historic relic into a functional piece of infrastructure,” he remarks. “This project demonstrates our ability to preserve our heritage while solving modern connectivity issues for residents and visitors alike.” RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND THE “HIDDEN GEM” HOUSING STRATEGY Growth reaches beyond the city limits, fueled by targeted infrastructure investments. In the western reaches of the county, specifically within Warren and Dunham townships, the board of commissioners oversees a $15 million sewer expansion project.“We are investing heavily in infrastructure to open up land for both industrial and residential expansion,” Schilling explains. These projects aim to support townships that have historically lacked central services. Schilling adds that providing reliable utilities is a prerequisite for attracting private developers to rural areas. “When we put the pipes in the ground, we remove a major barrier for builders,” he states. “We want the western part of our county to grow in a structured way that supports long-term residency.” A centerpiece of the county’s residential strategy is the 300-acre County Home property, which local leaders describe as a “hidden gem” for future 153 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02 WASHINGTON COUNTY, OH
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx