Indy Standard

Indiana's Community Crossings Matching Grant Program has allocated over $1.2 million in state funding to local communities for road and bridge projects, according to Boone County legislators. This initiative aims to support local governments with funds for road reconstruction, bridge preservation, intersection improvements, and other infrastructure projects.

State Rep. Becky Cash (R-Zionsville) highlighted the importance of this collaboration between local governments and the state, stating, "Local roadways connect families, friends, visitors and businesses to our communities. This program is a great example of our local governments and state working together to improve our infrastructure and make a difference for Hoosiers."

The program will distribute more than $200 million in state matching grants across 245 Indiana communities this year. Notably, Boone County received $426,507, Ulen was awarded $68,718, and Zionsville obtained $740,282.

State Rep. Mark Genda (R-Frankfort) emphasized the significance of these updates: "Road updates, maintenance and projects are essential for keeping our roadways safe and functional for Hoosiers." He noted that the grant program allows smaller communities to address large-scale projects.

For municipalities to qualify for funding under this program, smaller ones must provide a 25 percent match in local funds while larger communities need a 50 percent match. Additionally, State Rep. Hunter Smith (R-Zionsville) explained that "50 percent of available matching funds be awarded annually to communities within counties with a population of 50,000 or less." Since its inception in 2016, Community Crossings has provided over $2 billion towards improving roads and bridges.

"Maintaining our transportation infrastructure is essential if we want our communities and state to thrive economically and socially," said Smith. These funds help local areas manage immediate needs without straining their budgets.

State Rep. Jeff Thompson (R-Lizton) remarked on the broader impact: "Hoosiers and visitors alike rely on our roads to safely reach their destinations. Programs like Community Crossings are why our state is considered one of the best for infrastructure."

Further information about grant recipients can be found at in.gov/indot/communitycrossings.