Spencer County Legislators: State Funding Gives Green Light to Local Road Improvements

STATEHOUSE (April 21, 2022) –  Local communities will receive more than $1.3 million in state matching grants for road and bridge improvement projects, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh).

In total, more than 220 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.

"Whether it's getting children to school safely or attracting visitors to our area, reliable roadways are crucial for thriving communities," Bartels said. "These investments will continue to pay off for Southern Indiana."   

Area grant recipients include Spencer County $341,397, Dale $185,554, Gentryville $101,997 and Rockport $749,434. 

As part of the grant program, 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.

"Community Crossings is a perfect example of how collaboration between state and local governments can make a big difference in the lives of Hoosiers," Ledbetter said. "Through strengthening our transportation networks, we can continue to create jobs and expand our economy, all while keeping motorists safe and cutting down on commute times."

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.