COLUMBUS — Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland announced the launch of www.recovery.ohio.gov, a “virtual headquarters” for information regarding the infrastructure and other unbudgeted elements of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act — the federal stimulus package.

“This Web site is designed to ensure that all eligible entities seeking federal stimulus resources are provided with an opportunity to apply for funds, and that they are considered fairly and equally,” Strickland said. “While this represents the first step of a process that will be further defined when the stimulus bill is complete, we believe this will strengthen Ohio’s ability to act quickly when the resources become available.”

Interested entities are asked to submit expressions of interest through a brief form available on the site. The form is not the application for stimulus resources, but the first step to identify the appropriate state agency that will facilitate the next steps in the application and review process.

The Web site will provide information updates on the stimulus process and outline the specific guidelines for submitting proposals for consideration as the federal guidelines are identified.

Although additional changes may occur before the bill is signed into law by President Barack Obama, stimulus grant and loan funds are expected to be ultimately distributed to government, business and other organizations.

Stimulus funds benefiting individuals, such as funds for unemployment benefits or Pell Grants, will be distributed through already-established channels, and not through the Web site.

“By establishing a clear, transparent and collaborative process, we are ensuring that Ohio’s communities, businesses and other interested organizations are in the best position to take full advantage of these unprecedented resources as soon as they are made available,” Strickland said.

Once the U.S. Congress finalizes the federal stimulus bill and President Obama signs it into law, those who have submitted project forms that meet eligibility requirements will receive an e-mail with instructions to apply for funds.