From Ohio Department of Transportation, District 1

Sam Norris, Pleasant Township trustee in Hardin County, successfully navigated the ODOT process and secured funds through the township safety sign grant program.

Sam Norris was appointed a trustee in Pleasant Township, Hardin County, on Jan. 1, 2024. He logged an early win by securing approximately $1,900 from ODOT's township safety sign grant program.

"We initially wondered if replacing our 9-1-1- signs would be eligible through the program," said Norris. They learned instead the program is intended for safety signs, such as for curves, stop signs, reflectors, and the accommodating hardware and posts.

Knowledge of the grant's existence came late. Norris said they had just assessed the township's signs for replacement and ordered signs in February. “We had already placed the order and received them before I learned of this grant in May," he said.

The township learned in September it received one of 38 grants awarded. The signs covered by the grant were some of the larger, more expensive signs, he said.

The process was easy to navigate with the help of Tina Potter, program administrator. “She helped me to make sure everything was good,” said Norris. “My only regret is I wish I would’ve known about it before we did our drive-around. We could’ve used our funds elsewhere," he said.

Hear Sam's story and his advice for other public entities seeking funds from ODOT.

Learn more about the township safety sign grant program: Township Safety Sign Grant Program | Ohio Department of Transportation