STATEHOUSE (Oct. 9, 2020) – State Reps. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) and Christy Stutzman (R-Middlebury) encourage communities in Elkhart County to apply for the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program to help fund local road and bridge projects.
Miller supported expanding the program in 2017 to help more cities, towns and counties fund local infrastructure projects through preservation, road construction, intersection improvements, guardrail replacements and signage.
"Over the years, general wear and tear on our roads and bridges make regular improvements and maintenance necessary," Miller said. "Funds through the Community Crossings program help local communities maintain safe and reliable infrastructure, raising the quality of life and attracting economic development to the area."
According to Stutzman, 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.
"Local governments know best what their communities need, and through this partnership with the state, they are able to address and pay for projects," Stutzman said. "From the economy to recreation, our infrastructure impacts all aspects of our lives, and that's why these types of investments are critical."
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.
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.
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State Rep. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) represents House District 48, which includes portions of Elkhart County.
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State Rep. Christy Stutzman (R-Middlebury) represents House District 49, which includes the eastern portion of Elkhart County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
