MOUNT VERNON — The City of Mount Vernon is applying for $1.4 million in Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) for three projects.
Combined with local funds, the projects total an estimated $4.99 million in improvements.
The city will draw its portion from different funds depending on the project. Funds include streets; water, wastewater, and stormwater utilities; and the general fund.
Allocation Grant: $150,000
Of the $150,000 grant request, $120,000 will go toward sidewalks on the north side of East Vine Street between Potwin and South Center streets. Three thousand in grant money goes to fair housing; the remaining $27,000 is for administrative costs.
The cost for sidewalks on both sides of the street is estimated at $288,251. In light of other scheduled and potential projects, city officials elected to do the north side first for $153,561.
Critical Infrastructure Grant: $500,000
Relief is on the horizon for Burgess and Hamtramck residents if a $500,000 critical infrastructure grant comes through.
Plans are to reconstruct streets on West Burgess and West Hamtramck between Main and Sandusky streets. Reconstruction includes rebuilding the brick street, installing new curbs and drainage, and replacing water and sewer lines.
The city will put up $2.2M of the $2.67M project.
Neighborhood Revitalization Grant: $750,000
The target neighborhood is Riverside Park in the city’s second ward.
The estimated $2.91 million project includes improvements to storm sewers, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, and water. Sewer improvements include new sewers in some areas.
Also on tap are improvements to the pickleball courts and playground equipment.
Of the $750,000 grant, $700,000 will go toward construction costs, $50,000 for administration, and the city’s share is $2.2 million.
The deadline to apply for the grants is June 12. The state will award the grants in August. The city must complete the work by August 2026 if it receives the grants.
