Montgomery city officials say a $36.6 million federal grant will be used to combat the effects of segregation, redlining and interstate construction in historic West Montgomery.
Grant money will be used to provide more transportation options, easing access to work, education, health care, food and recreation.
Funds for the competitively awarded grant come from the U.S. Department of Transportation, through the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. It will be used to “enhance public open spaces, increase safety and access to public safety amenities, broadband connectivity, zero-emission transportation options, workforce transportation micro-transit, wayfinding enhancements, and investments in future development,” the city said in announcing the award.
It is the largest competitively awarded federal grant ever to the city.
“I am pleased to announce that the City of Montgomery has received the largest competitive federal grant in our city’s history—$36.6 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation,” said Montgomery Mayor Steven L. Reed. “One of my first directives as mayor was to establish a City Grants Department to seek out more federal and philanthropic investments into our community. Ultimately, this transformative project aligns with our long-term plans for revitalizing Historic West Montgomery. Combined with other initiatives already being implemented, we are creating a safer, more accessible, and more connected neighborhood.”
Work is slated to begin this fall. Specific projects include converting a brownfield site into an EV charging station and microgrid; improving West Fairview Avenue; developing microtransit systems to major employers such as Hyundai, downtown, hospitals and Lagoon Park Industrial Park; upgrading smart technology at key locations; expanding fiber optic options; upgrading bus stops; improving historic markers and wayfinding aids; and adding more than two miles of sidewalks.
