City Council Approves $27M Grant Application for Housing and Infrastructure Projects
September 25, 2025 | Barre City, Washington County, Vermont
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A significant funding opportunity is on the horizon for Barre City, Vermont, with over $67 million earmarked for recovery efforts following the devastating 2023 floods. During a special city council meeting on September 24, 2025, officials outlined plans to apply for a substantial portion of these federal funds, primarily targeting housing and infrastructure projects.
The council revealed that the first round of applications is due soon, with decisions expected around November 20. The total funding request from Barre City amounts to approximately $27.7 million, with a major focus on housing initiatives, which alone account for over $23 million. This funding is crucial as the city grapples with the aftermath of the floods, aiming to rebuild and enhance community resilience.
Key projects discussed include the Prospect Heights development, which seeks $5.2 million to create 91 new housing units, and a $10 million proposal for a multi-story building at 355 North Main Street, known as the former Walgreens Plaza. Additionally, infrastructure improvements are planned, including floodplain management and stormwater upgrades, with a total request of $3.5 million.
Council members emphasized the importance of aligning their funding requests with state priorities, which heavily favor housing solutions. However, concerns were raised regarding the potential financial burden on taxpayers and the environmental implications of the proposed developments, particularly in relation to wetland protections.
Resident Ed Stanek voiced apprehensions about the reliance on outdated development permits and the lack of clarity surrounding the costs associated with necessary infrastructure upgrades. He urged the council to consider these factors carefully before moving forward.
Despite the challenges, city leaders remain optimistic about the potential benefits of these projects, highlighting the urgent need for housing and the economic boost that new developments could bring to the community. As the council prepares to finalize its applications, the focus will remain on ensuring that the projects not only meet immediate needs but also contribute to long-term sustainability and growth for Barre City.
The council revealed that the first round of applications is due soon, with decisions expected around November 20. The total funding request from Barre City amounts to approximately $27.7 million, with a major focus on housing initiatives, which alone account for over $23 million. This funding is crucial as the city grapples with the aftermath of the floods, aiming to rebuild and enhance community resilience.
Key projects discussed include the Prospect Heights development, which seeks $5.2 million to create 91 new housing units, and a $10 million proposal for a multi-story building at 355 North Main Street, known as the former Walgreens Plaza. Additionally, infrastructure improvements are planned, including floodplain management and stormwater upgrades, with a total request of $3.5 million.
Council members emphasized the importance of aligning their funding requests with state priorities, which heavily favor housing solutions. However, concerns were raised regarding the potential financial burden on taxpayers and the environmental implications of the proposed developments, particularly in relation to wetland protections.
Resident Ed Stanek voiced apprehensions about the reliance on outdated development permits and the lack of clarity surrounding the costs associated with necessary infrastructure upgrades. He urged the council to consider these factors carefully before moving forward.
Despite the challenges, city leaders remain optimistic about the potential benefits of these projects, highlighting the urgent need for housing and the economic boost that new developments could bring to the community. As the council prepares to finalize its applications, the focus will remain on ensuring that the projects not only meet immediate needs but also contribute to long-term sustainability and growth for Barre City.
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