Benton County and its smaller neighbors are seeing a shift in their landscapes, not from the natural wear of seasons, but from the investment into infrastructure—over $1.6 million has been allocated to them for road and bridge improvements. This funding boost comes courtesy of the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program, an initiative championed by State Rep. Matt Commons (R-Williamsport), and designed to aid local communities in maintaining and enhancing their transportation avenues.
Since its inception via a law passed by House Republicans in 2016, the program demands participating smaller municipalities to bravely contribute 20 percent in local funds, a stake in the game that ensures their vested interest and commitment. On the other hand, larger communities are asked to provide a heftier 50 percent match. It's a delicate balance, tailored to yoke local skin in the game with state support, and it's garnered almost $2 billion towards the cause since its kickoff.
According to an announcement by Rep. Commons, the latest round of funding is a part of nearly $100 million distributed among roughly 200 communities. Specific recipients include Benton County, the recipient of $796,640, Boswell with $217,520, and Fowler, which obtained $603,848. These grants, Commons noted, are "essential infrastructure maintenance to support their economic growth and quality of life," as mentioned on the Indiana House Republicans website.
The stipulations of the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program are clear and decidedly pointed towards equity. They ensure to equitably distribute half of the available matching funds each year to communities in counties with populations not exceeding 50,000. For a full list of grant recipients and details about the program visit this website.
