Ohio senator blasts cost of stimulus signs

CLEVELAND (AP) — A state lawmaker from northeastern Ohio is complaining about signs that let passing motorists know when Ohio road work is courtesy of federal stimulus money.

The state has ordered that markers identify Ohio’s 365 stimulus projects at both ends of construction zones, at a cost estimated at more than $1 million.

The money will come out of the $935 million in federal funds the state is receiving for highway work.

State Sen. Tim Grendell, a Republican from Geauga County, says the signs are a waste of money. He says he has complained to the Ohio Department of Transportation that there are better uses for the funds.

ODOT spokesman Scott Varner says the state felt it was important to show taxpayers how stimulus money is being used.

Grendell is a member of the Trumbull County Farm Bureau.