Speaker 2, Neighborhood & Business Development staff, told the board the Block Challenge program has ‘‘we are 1 shy of 200’’ total applications and that applicants’ self-reported estimates add up to about $1,000,000 in anticipated project investment. Staff said roughly $30,000 is currently projected to exceed the program’s budgeted amount and recommended the board consider that pressure while finalizing the 2026 operating budget.

The update described where projects sit in the pipeline: staff said about 26 projects are either ready for disbursement or already had checks cut, and that a few large projects — notably roof replacements — skew per-property averages. ‘‘If you’re only topping out at $2,500 per property, that’ll do it,’’ Speaker 2 said, noting the program’s per-property payout assumptions when estimating total spend.

Board members pressed staff on the pace of completions and how approvals are processed. Speaker 2 said approvals have been given at the individual level rather than by whole teams, and estimated no more than about 50 projects will be completed this calendar year. Staff said they are counting conservatively to allow planning for disbursement timing and will revisit dollar allocations if withdrawals or scope changes occur.

Speaker 2 also presented selected before-and-after photos of projects across Bryant Ave, South Avery, Tippill and Salt Springs and pointed to visible neighborhood improvements from landscaping, paint and driveway work. The board discussed eligibility questions related to sidewalks, permit requirements and whether certain work falls on homeowners versus the city’s right of way.

On outreach and branding, staff said they will use the existing SYR neighborhoods communications channel and produce yard signs for completed projects; Sarah Powell, the neighborhood-business development public information officer named by staff, will oversee signs and related materials.

The board did not take a formal vote on program changes; staff said they will return with refined disbursement figures and budget recommendations for the board’s next meeting.