Edmonston updates: grant projects progress and final plans for Edmonston Day

At the June 3 Edmonston work session, Town Administrator Rod Barnes updated the council on multiple grant-funded projects and proposals.

Barnes reported that a Department of Natural Resources grant for a trail at the Recreation Center will not cover the full trail cost; staff proposed adding exercise stations along the planned route as an alternative. He said the CDBG-funded sidewalk project on 52nd Avenue is out for bid and that a separate CDBG-funded streetlight project on 52nd Avenue is in the final design phase.

Barnes said the USDA food composting program has been expanded to include Cheverly and Cottage City; under the expansion Cheverly has added sixty-five customers. He also updated the council on coordination with Riverdale Park on a State Highway Safe Streets/Safe Roads grant.

Prince George's County / Chesapeake Bay Trust rain garden grants were discussed: a grant starting on 47th and 49th Avenues and a separate rain garden project on Buchanan reported as completed. Barnes noted DHCD Community Legacy and Neighborhood grants supporting a mural, bus stop, and streetscape work; local artist Rose Jaffe is meeting with residents to discuss a mural celebrating Hispanic culture and other proposed murals on Buchanan and town history. Barnes also said proposals were out or being considered to the National Fish and Wildlife fund in partnership with Bladensburg and the Port Towns for branding and related projects.

Separately, Town Clerk Averi Gray shared final plans for Edmonston Day, including parade and festival arrangements; the minutes record that the clerk presented final plans but do not provide detailed itineraries or dates in the work-session minutes.