Henry County lawmakers: Local road projects receive state funding boost

Posted by: Braden Dunlap  | Thursday, April 13, 2023

STATEHOUSE (April 13, 2023) – Local communities are set to receive over $2.1 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.

"This program is a game-changer for rural communities like ours that may struggle to pay for costly, but needed, infrastructure projects," said State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown), who serves on the House Roads and Transportation Committee. "Not only are we able to make ongoing improvements in our roads and bridges, but we are also doing it without taking on debt."

"Indiana's strong fiscal footing continues to pave the way for growth," said State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City). "Community Crossings grants help build on our state's reputation as the Crossroads of America, and I look forward to seeing more local infrastructure projects move forward thanks to this funding."  

Area grant recipients include:

  • Henry County, $1 million;
  • Kennard, $54,206;
  • New Castle, $1 million; and
  • Sulphur Springs, $143,915.

"Investing in infrastructure is a top priority, especially as our communities continue to attract job providers and economic development," said State Rep. Brad Barrett (R-Richmond). "With this ongoing and dedicated funding source, locals have funding source to make needed improvements."

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.

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.

 -30-

State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) represents House District 54,
which includes portions of Henry, Rush, Hancock and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.

State Rep. Brad Barrett (R-Richmond) represents House District 56,
which includes all of Wayne County and a portion of Henry County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.

 State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City) represents House District 33,
which includes all of Blackford and Randolph counties, and portions of Delaware, Henry and Jay counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.