Indy Standard

Indiana's Community Crossings Matching Grant Program has allocated over $1.2 million to local communities for road and bridge projects, as announced by State Representatives Matt Lehman (R-Berne) and J.D. Prescott (R-Union City). This program aims to support infrastructure improvements through state funding.

This year, 245 Indiana communities will benefit from more than $200 million in state matching grants under the program. "The Community Crossings Matching Grant Program enables us to meet our local infrastructure needs while strategically planning for the years ahead," stated Lehman. He emphasized the importance of road maintenance and improvements for community growth and safety, noting their role in attracting new businesses and residents.

Indiana recently received recognition as the top state for overall road conditions by ConsumerAffairs, which highlighted its low traffic fatality rates and quality roads.

Recipients of these grants include Dunkirk with $143,126, Jay County receiving $1 million, and Portland awarded $76,575. According to Prescott, smaller municipalities must provide a 25 percent match in local funds to qualify for funding, while larger communities are required to match 50 percent. The state mandates that half of the available matching funds be awarded annually to communities within counties with populations of 50,000 or less. Since its inception in 2016, Community Crossings has distributed over $2 billion for local road and bridge enhancements.

"These grants are a great way for state and local governments to collaborate to make meaningful improvements," said Prescott. He added that improving roads and bridges is essential for ensuring safer travel across Indiana.

For more information on grant recipients or details about the program, visit in.gov/indot/communitycrossings.