Strategic Square Footage Reduction Demolition Loan Program (FY27)
Strategic Square Footage Reduction Demolition Loan Program (FY27) supports Ohio state higher education institutions with demolition loans to reduce their physical footprint and achieve operating savings.
Funder: Ohio Department of Higher Education
Due Dates: October 14, 2026 (Prior Capital Investments Form) | November 9, 2026 (Application)
Funding Amounts: Revolving demolition loans with 5-, 10-, or 15-year repayment terms
Summary: Supports voluntary reductions in physical square footage at Ohio state higher education institutions through demolition loans.
Key Information: Institutions may not construct any new facility while demolition is occurring.
Description
The Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) administers this revolving loan program to help Ohio state institutions of higher education voluntarily reduce their physical footprint through demolition. House Bill 96 of the 136th General Assembly established the Strategic Square Footage Reduction Fund, with its purpose set out in Ohio Revised Code Section 3333.96. This is a loan program, not a grant.
The program prioritizes institutions experiencing enrollment declines and gives additional consideration to institutions with low fiscal capacity. Review considers demolition costs, ongoing operating savings, institutional planning, and the financial benefits of reducing space. Partial building demolition can qualify, but subsequent renovation of retained space cannot. Planned replacement facilities must support an overall reduction in institutional square footage and demonstrate financial benefit.
