Area lawmakers: Local road projects receive state funding boost

Posted by: Matthew Gocken  | Friday, April 14, 2023

STATEHOUSE (April 14, 2023) – Local communities are set to receive over $3.1 million to complete much-needed road projects, according to area legislators.

Funding is available through the state's Community Crossings Matching Grant Program, which can be used for road and bridge preservation, road reconstruction, intersection improvements and other items. In total, 224 towns, cities and counties will receive over $133.4 million in state matching grants. 

"The great thing about this program is that communities large and small both benefit," said State Rep. David Abbott (R-Rome City). "Projects and other critical infrastructure needs that were previously delayed can now receive the green light, and I'm excited to see our communities benefit." 

Area grant recipients include: 

  • Bristol, $1 million;
  • Elkhart County, $1 million;
  • Middlebury, $300,103; and
  • Nappanee, $857,566.

"This funding helps local governments examine their critical infrastructure needs and make necessary improvements," said State Rep. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart). "This is an important step to keep motorists safe and the economy moving."

"Our infrastructure plays an essential role in our economy," said State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury). "When we invest in our roads, we are investing in our future."

To qualify for the competitive grant, 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. Since 2016, Community Crossings has awarded more than $1.27 billion to improve local roads and bridges.

"This funding will be put to good use and invested in important road projects," said State Rep. Tim Wesco (R-Osceola). "Whether heading to church, work or school, many residents depend on local roads and count on them to be safe." 

A list of all communities receiving matching funds in the latest round is available here. Visit in.gov/indot/communitycrossings to learn more about the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program and the next call for projects opening in July. 

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State Rep. David Abbott (R-Rome City) represents House District 18,
which includes portions of Elkhart, Kosciusko, Noble and Whitley counties.
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here to download a high-resolution photo.

State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) represents House District 49,
which includes a portion of Elkhart County.
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here to download a high-resolution photo.

State Rep. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) represents House District 48,
which includes a portion of Elkhart County.
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here to download a high-resolution photo.

State Rep. Tim Wesco (R-Osceola) represents House District 21,
which includes portions of Elkhart and St. Joseph counties.
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here to download a high-resolution photo.