[font=Verdana]The city of Hamilton may receive a $3 million grant for environmental remediation, demolition and cleanup of the former Mercy Hospital site in downtown Hamilton, Gov. Bob Taft announced Wednesday[/font]

[font=Verdana]The Clean Ohio Council, which reviews the Clean Ohio Revitalization Fund applications, met Wednesday and recommended the project to the State Controlling Board.[/font]

[font=Verdana]The project is expected to cost more than $4.2 million. It will include asbestos removal, underground storage tank removal, impacted soils removal, demolition, property acquisition, environmental insurance and environmental consulting fees. The city will match about 30 percent and will absorb a portion of the project cost. The rest, 70 percent, will be financed through the state grant. [/font]

[font=Verdana]After demolition and cleanup, Towne Development Group, LTD will develop the site. The $10-$12 million project is expected to cover 8,000-12,000 square feet of commercial, office and retail space; up to 120 riverfront condominium, loft and townhouse units; and greenspace along the Great Miami River. Work should begin in early-to-mid 2007. [/font]