Grant County Council members voted unanimously to contribute about $300,000 toward the city of Marion’s “Stellar Communities” proposal.
The funds would specifically go toward the costs of bridge projects in the proposal. Council members agreed during their monthly meeting Wednesday that the expense was reasonable because bridge improvement costs are generally on the county council, and because the county would benefit if Marion received millions from the state to fund its proposed projects.
“I think bridges are our responsibility anyway,” said council member Michael Conner, who called the entire proposal “the most hopeful thing” for Grant County in years.
City spokesperson Mark Fauser said private donors from the community, who currently wish to remain anonymous, have collectively committed to put up $2.25 million so far. County Council President Jim McWhirt said that commitment also speaks well of the people involved with the project.
Marion is one of six finalists in the state’s 2014 “Stellar Communities” program. Two will be designated as “Stellar Communities” later this summer and multiple state agencies would help fund some of their proposals. Marion proposed to revitalize downtown Marion, shaping it into a cultural and recreational destination.
The Marion-based nonprofit Affordable Housing and Community Development Corporation is helping Marion through the application process.
Executive Director Jacquie Dodyk told county council members Wednesday that one of the bridge projects in Marion’s proposal would add a pedestrian walkway and fishing spot to the east side of the Washington Street bridge. Currently, she said the sidewalk is narrow with high walls, which means nearby residents of Norman Manor or ResCare who use scooters can’t get through and cross the bridge by entering the roadway.
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