Committee authorizes engineer to sign $5.58M FHWA grant for 35th–52nd multi‑use path and two pedestrian bridges

The Kenosha Public Works Committee authorized the city engineer to sign a Federal Highway Administration grant award agreement worth $5,580,000 to build a multi‑use path between 35th Street and 52nd Street, including pedestrian overpasses at Washington Road and 52nd Street.

Staff described the award as one the city had pursued for some time and said it was briefly at risk but has now been returned to the city for a formal agreement: "This grant is is worth 5,580,000... we had received the award, and as we're working through the grant agreement, that's when the government, some changes were happening. And and for a period of time, we thought we had lost this grant. But it's back," staff said.

Committee members asked about long‑term ownership and funding. Staff said the section will be city‑managed from the connection and will tie into the Kent development. The total project cost was estimated at about $7,280,000, leaving a roughly $1.7 million difference beyond the FHWA award; staff said that gap "already has already been approved in the CIP" but that an amendment or other funding options may still be pursued.

Members also raised property‑access issues where the trail may cross utility land; staff said negotiating agreements with the utility (referred to in the transcript as "We Energy") will be part of project implementation.

A committee member noted U.S. Sen. Baldwin's support in helping secure the grant and urged members to thank the senator. A motion to authorize the engineer to sign the grant agreement was moved and seconded and the committee approved the authorization.

Staff said they will return with additional details on funding sources and any required CIP amendments as the project moves into design and right‑of‑way work.