STATEHOUSE (Dec. 7, 2022) – Over $1.1 million is headed to St. Joseph County communities to accelerate road and bridge improvements, according to local legislators.
State Rep. Dale DeVon (R-Granger) 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. In total, 229 towns, cities and counties will receive over $119 million in state matching grants.
"The road and bridge projects that will be completed thanks to the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program will benefit residents and Hoosier businesses for years to come," DeVon said. "Whether heading to church, work or school, many of us depend on local roads, and quality infrastructure also goes a long way in encouraging businesses to stay and grow here. That's why the state continues to partner with locals to ensure they can move ahead on critical projects."
Area grant recipients include Lakeville ($63,090), Mishawaka ($855,623) and Osceola ($204,577).
State Rep. Jake Teshka (R-South Bend) 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.
"This unique program is a game changer for small towns and bigger cities as they're always looking for ways to stretch their dollars further," Teshka said. "Having safe and reliable roads is critical, especially as Indiana's economy and population grow."
"Our state's roads are used by millions of Hoosiers, businesses and travelers alike, and it's important we keep our commitment to maintaining them," said State Rep. Tim Wesco (R-Osceola). "Local infrastructure improvements can often be paused because of the significant expense, but this program helps alleviate local budgets and green light projects."
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 LPAQuestions@indot.in.gov.
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State Rep. Dale DeVon (R-Granger) represents House District 5,
which includes a portion of St. Joseph County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Jake Teshka (R-South Bend) represents House District 7,
which includes portions of LaPorte, Marshall and St. Joseph counties.
Click 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.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
