WAYNE COUNTY– The Wayne County Commissioners awarded the first $120,000 in matching grants through a new program created to amplify local municipal infrastructure investments under the American Rescue Plan.
Each of Wayne County’s municipalities, 28 in total, received direct but varying levels of funding based on population under this federal pandemic-recovery plan. The County has committed additional funding to each of the municipalities as an additional ARP funding source, which they must in turn, invest in infrastructure projects. Guidelines for the grant program define infrastructure projects including storm water, broadband, recreational opportunities and associated planning.
Commissioners Brian Smith, Joe Adams and Jocelyn Cramer recently hosted a meeting of municipal leaders to announce their decision to allocate grant funding to every municipality from the American Rescue Plan Act funds as well as update them on other funding programs, initiatives and county hot topics.
They will offer each municipality a $30,000 grant opportunity that allows township supervisors and borough council members to make the decisions about the best use of these funds in their communities. Each municipality is asked to demonstrate matching funds for their project.
On Aug. 18, Preston, Lebanon and Lehigh Townships received grants for building projects, and Dreher Township was granted funds for an update of the Township’s Act 537 Plan. Each demonstrated the funding needed and the commitment to complete their selected projects. On Sept. 8, Canaan and Dyberry Townships were awarded grants for building additions and Mount Pleasant Township for a stormwater/drainage project.
The money from the American Rescue Plan represents an extraordinary investment in every corner of the county, and this new grant program magnifies those local efforts to address key infrastructure needs.
After the commissioners’ presentation to the municipal leaders, the commissioners walked them through the Stourbridge Project, a business incubator and co-working space at the Park Street Complex and held an informal discussion period.