Macomb will reapply for federal Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grants to help pay for a couple major projects.
One of the grants is for improving the Candy Lane corridor.
“We’ve been pushing for this for a number of years, and it’s the number one priority for people in that area,” said city council member Dave Dorsett, who represents that part of Macomb.
The Candy Lane work would include improving the road itself, plus addressing storm sewer and water main issues.
A memo from the city’s grant writer/coordinator Jessica Biddenstadt said, “The Candy Lane project remains a priority safety and resilience investment, addressing roadway flooding, emergency access, ADA compliance, and pedestrian safety along a critical north-south corridor.”
The other BUILD grant is for construction of a multi-use path that would circle around the city.
In her memo for this project, Biddenstadt said, “The Multi-Use Path project supports long-term safety, mobility, and connectivity by planning a citywide pedestrian and bicycle network connecting neighborhoods, schools, employment centers, healthcare, and downtown.”
The city previously applied for the grants for both projects but did not receive them. The city requested $9.1 million for Candy Lane, and this time around will request a bit more due to the rising costs of construction materials.
The city previously applied for $500,000 for a planning grant for the multi-use path, and expects to request a slightly larger amount this year.
Neither grant will require a local match.
The grant applications for both projects are due Feb. 24.
Tri States Public Radio produced this story. TSPR relies on financial support from our readers and listeners in order to provide coverage of the issues that matter to west central Illinois, southeast Iowa, and northeast Missouri. As someone who values the content created by TSPR's news department please consider making a financial contribution.
