The City Council has allocated $2 million in the Fiscal Year 2010 budget to be used for various infrastructure projects in neighborhoods throughout the city, according to the City Council office. The budget is scheduled for final passage on Thursday, July 30th.
City Council Majority Leader Terrence M. Hassett explained that funds were allocated from the sale of the former Providence Civic Center, and that those funds must be utilized to finance capital expenditures or for the payment of city debt. “As motorists know, many streets in the city are in deplorable condition, marred from the winter weather and subsequent snow plowing,” Hassett said. “The Council will work with the department of public works to identify those streets where repairs are most needed, and where the funds will have the greatest impact.”
Finance Chairman John J. Igliozzi stated that, “Most of the ARRA [stimulus] funds were funneled through the state department of transportation for specific state-funded projects, leaving Providence to pursue other funding opportunities for regular roadway improvements in city neighborhoods. As a result, the City Council designated the $2 million from the civic center sale to help the City resolve some of its most critical infrastructure issues.”
City Councilman Leon Tejada (Ward 8), finance committee member, said that the Council has become concerned that a spike in damage to motor vehicles hitting potholes will only worsen unless repairs are made to neighborhood streets. He noted that Council members know well where improvements are needed.
“This funding will begin to address the enormous need for local street repairs,” said Tejada. “It gives Council members the responsibility to prioritize local projects, and to continue improving our neighborhoods.”
Thursday’s meeting will be held at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Providence City Hall.
