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Council hears $1.7 million Centeredale streetscape grant and delays decision until June
Summary
Grants manager Sherry Lupoli described a $1.7 million federal earmark for Centeredale streetscape work that requires a 20% town match (about $425,000, which can be in‑kind); the council agreed to revisit the item in June after budget deliberations and staff follow‑up on scope and timing.
Sherry Lupoli, the town grants manager, told the council the town holds a $1,700,000 federal earmark for the Centeredale streetscape and revitalization project and asked the council to authorize entering an agreement with the state Department of Transportation to execute the contract and begin design and bidding.
"The grant is for $1,700,000, and we have a 20% match," Lupoli said, adding the match can be in‑kind and need not be cash. She said the federal portion covers up to 80% of eligible costs; the town’s match was estimated at about $425,000 and the total project cost would be roughly $2,125,000 including match and other elements.
Lupoli described intended uses as sidewalks, trees, streetscape improvements, and a DOT‑coordinated contraflow lane in the Centeredale bypass area to improve traffic flow. She noted the project will require surveys, feasibility and environmental studies because of nearby historic buildings and waterways, so construction would not begin immediately. She said the funder’s project completion date is currently 12/31/2027 and that the town should expect to request an extension for practical scheduling.
Council members expressed concern about the town match amid current budget constraints and asked whether the contraflow lane would be constructed under this award. Lupoli said design and bidding would clarify what this particular grant could accomplish. The council voted to continue the item to the June meeting so members can evaluate the town’s budget position and invite Lupoli back with more detail.
If approved later, Lupoli said the agreement would allow the town to sign a DOT contract and proceed with design and bidding; the match may be provided incrementally over the life of the grant, in cash or in‑kind contributions such as volunteer planting, donated materials, or staff time.
