City holds CDBG public hearing after regional awards for two park and sidewalk projects

Washington Terrace opened a public hearing to receive citizen input on two projects awarded through the 2025 Community Development Block Grant program: a north-end street accessibility and safety project and playground improvements at Victory Park.

City officials said the regional rating and ranking process awarded $116,807 toward the North End street accessibility and safety project, which has a total estimated cost of $189,930, and $123,542 toward the Victory Park playground improvement project, which has a total estimated cost of $200,880. Amy (grant manager) told the council the applications were successful and that the city expects work to start after July 1.

The hearing was limited to presentation and public comment. Jake Mibus, the city’s Public Works director, was identified as the project manager for the street accessibility project and Carlos Grava was identified as a project manager for the Victory Park project. Council members asked for and confirmed addresses and minute accuracy for the North End site; Council member Jill Koford asked for a clarification and staff confirmed the address is 600 West, 5100 South.

No members of the public offered substantive comments about the CDBG awards during the hearing. Amy said copies of the city’s Capital Investment Plan are available online and in the city office for residents who want more detail. Staff reported the city must spend down at least 50% of each project by January next year or request an extension to remain eligible for future grants.

Council discussion focused on scheduling and administration rather than project scope. The council closed the public-hearing portion after questions were answered and no public comments were received.

Funding details and project timelines remain subject to final contract and bid processes; staff said they will return with more detailed schedules as procurement and permitting proceed.