Boone County lawmakers encourage local communities to apply for the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program to help fund local road and bridge projects.
State Rep. Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel),who supported the 2016 law creating the grants, said cities, towns and counties can use the funding for local infrastructure projects through preservation, road construction, intersection improvements, guardrail replacements and signage.
“Our communities must have strong infrastructure as it connects us, whether for work or play, and adds to the overall quality of life for Hoosiers,” Schaibley said. “Indiana made a commitment to strengthening our roadways, and the state is continuing to honor that commitment so our towns, large and small, can move ahead with projects.”
According to State Rep. Tim Brown (R-Crawfordsville), co-author of the 2016 law creating Indiana’s long-term road funding plan, Hoosier communities are eligible for a state match up to $1 million annually and the Indiana Department of Transportation opens applications twice a year. Due to COVID-19, this year’s second round of calls for projects was postponed in July, but Gov. Eric Holcomb recently announced that the matching grant program will resume and the new application deadline is Oct. 23.
“Maintaining and improving local infrastructure is key to our overall growth, but the costs of these types of projects can be significant and stretch tight budgets,” Brown said. “Communities can partner with the state to receive some additional funding, but the deadline to apply for the next round of grants is coming up fast, so it’s time to go online and start the process.”
State Rep. Jeff Thompson (R-Lizton),who also supported the law establishing the program, said counties with fewer than 50,000 residents and cities and towns with less than 10,000 residents contribute 25% of the matching funds, with larger communities contributing 50%. To be eligible, all local units of government must have an approved Asset Management Plan and provide a funding match.
“These matching grants provide local communities the chance to address their infrastructure needs while also freeing up budget funds for other projects and services,” Thompson said. “This partnership between local and state governments helps ensure our roadways are safe for all motorists traveling throughout Indiana.”
Since the program’s inception, $739 million has been awarded to support Hoosier communities and infrastructure projects around the state. Local governments can apply for the program online at in.gov/indot/4013.htm, with forms due by 5 p.m. EST on Oct. 23.