More than $3 million is headed to local communities to accelerate road and bridge improvements, according to Boone County legislators.
State Rep. Becky Cash (R-Zionsville) said the local funding from the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program is for road and bridge preservation, road reconstruction, intersection improvements, guardrail replacements and signage, and can cover material costs for chip sealing and crack filling operations.
“We depend on roads and bridges to get us to and from work, doctor’s appointments and to get our children to school,” Cash said. “These projects will have long-term benefits for everyone in our community and across the state.”
State Rep. Mark Genda (R-Frankfort) said 229 towns, cities and counties will receive over $119 million in state matching grants.
“Road repairs come with a high price tag and these grants help make necessary road projects possible,” said State Rep. Mark Genda (R-Frankfort). “Hoosiers and businesses alike depend on safe and functional roads, and by investing in these infrastructure projects we are also investing in the success of our communities.”
Area grant recipients include:
- Boone County, $679,810;
- Lebanon, $339,072;
- Thorntown, $414,750;
- Whitestown, $675,141; and
- Zionsville, $893,412.
State Rep. Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel) said smaller municipalities provide a 25 percent match in local funds, while large communities provide a 50 percent match. State law requires 50 percent of the available matching funds be awarded annually to communities within counties with a population of 50,000 or fewer. To date, Hoosier communities are on the receiving end of more than $1 billion in Community Crossings Matching Grants.
“The Community Crossings Grant program continues to be successful because of the strong partnerships,” Schaibley said. “I look forward to seeing more growth in our area as these projects take shape.”
“With Community Crossings Grants, Hoosier communities large and small can continue investing in their immediate infrastructure needs and plan for future growth,” said State Rep. Jeff Thompson (R-Lizton). “This local funding will be put to good use as we ensure roads and bridges are safe and functioning for years to come.”
According to the Indiana Department of Transportation, which oversees and awards the grants, the next call for projects is expected in January. Awards are released two times a year.More information can be found at in.gov/indot/communitycrossings or by emailing[email protected].