STATEHOUSE (April 19, 2022) – Local communities will receive more than $1.2 million in state matching grants for road and bridge improvement projects, according to State Reps. Bob Cherry (R-Greenfield) and Chris Jeter (R-Fishers).
In total, 223 towns, cities and counties will receive over $107 million in state funding through the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program. Funds, awarded twice a year, are 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.
"As an agricultural and economic hub, Hancock County depends on reliable, safe roads to transport people, goods and services," said Cherry, who serves as vice chair of the House Ways and Means Committee. "This funding is critical in helping local government ensure our infrastructure is well taken care of."
Area grant recipients include Hancock County $201,500, Fortville $999,667 and New Palestine $92,397.
As part of the grant program, established in 2016 and expanded through laws supported by Cherry, 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.
"Investing in our infrastructure not only improves our roads, but also adds to our quality of life," Jeter said. "Through this program, we are paving the way for projects without passing debt to future generations, while ensuring our roads 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 July. More information can be found at in.gov/indot/communitycrossings or by emailing LPAQuestions@indot.in.gov.
-30-
State Rep. Bob Cherry (R-Greenfield) represents House District 53,
which includes portions of Hancock and Madison counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) represents House District 88,
which includes portions of Marion, Hamilton and Hancock counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
