Grant will provide funds for sidewalk improvement

BONNE TERRE — The city’s Grant Committee and Community Betterment Committee are working together on a grant to fund sidewalk improvements.

Janet Barton, chairperson of the Community Betterment Committee, said she just found out about the grant last week. The grant through the state could provide a maximum of $110,000 if awarded. It requires a 20 percent match.

“We’re just applying. There is no guarantee we’ll get it, although, I think we are in dire need,” she said. “…I don’t think anyone is going to argue that we don’t need it.”

Within the next week or so, she plans to compile a list of sidewalks in the city that need repair. She is asking residents to call her at 573-358-7337 or e-mail her at jfbarton@charter.net if they feel their neighborhood is in need of sidewalk repairs.

“Indicate the area … and I will come out and take a picture and put them on a list,” she said.

Barton said they would like sidewalks in really bad shape or an area of town where several sidewalks need repairs.

If the grant is awarded, “the people on the list will certainly be considered,” she said.

The grant has to be submitted by Feb. 27.

The city does have a special sales tax for sidewalks and street repairs, but the city has only been able to make small strides. This spring, the city will repave streets in the Hillcrest subdivision.

Teresa Ressel is a reporter for the Daily Journal and can be reached at 573-431-2010, ext. 179 or at tressel@dailyjournalonline.com.