In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the significant $36.5 million federal grant awarded for the reconstruction of North 6th Street, part of the Reconnecting Communities program aimed at addressing historical infrastructure inequities. The grant, announced by the President six months ago, will primarily focus on transforming 6th Street from National Avenue to North Avenue into a \"complete street,\" which emphasizes safety and accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit users.

Mike Aniston, the Multimodal Transportation Manager for the Department of Public Works, clarified that the city applied for this grant last fall, and the funding will not only reconstruct the street but also enhance it with dedicated bike lanes and improved transit access. The project aims to reconnect communities that have been adversely affected by past infrastructure decisions, particularly in neighborhoods like Halyard Park and Bronzeville.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of public engagement throughout the project. Aniston assured that a comprehensive communication plan will be developed to keep residents informed and involved, particularly those directly impacted by the construction.

In addition to the 6th Street project, the Department of Public Works provided updates on seasonal operations, including leaf collection starting October 14 and preparations for winter snow removal. The department is also addressing staffing shortages, with a current vacancy rate of 6.4% in operations.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the city's dockless scooter program, which has seen a 40% increase in ridership this year, and the HOP MKE streetcar system, which reported a 10% growth in ridership compared to pre-COVID levels. Officials emphasized the need for ongoing improvements in both programs to enhance mobility and accessibility across the city.