State funding local sidewalk projects

HURON — A state grant helps two local communities take a huge step forward in their separate projects to build sidewalks in neighborhoods. Not too long ago, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced $52 million in state funds would benefit 44 community projects across 31 counties. This would include ones in Huron and Port Clinton. Called the transportation alternatives program, this initiative "makes vital investments to support safer, more connected spaces for walking and biking," DeWine said. "This program helps improve quality of life, enhance public safety and build sustainable transportation networks that make our cities and towns stronger and more vibrant." Among the projects qualifying for funds are: • On- and off-road pedestrian and bicycle facilities, such as sidewalks and bike lanes • Infrastructure projects for improving access to public transportation • Recreational trails • Pathways leading to and/or from schools "Biking and walking are great modes of transportation that are not only fun but foster connections, support local economies and contribute to a healthier lifestyle," said Pamela Boratyn, director of the Ohio Department of Transportation, which also partnered on this project. "We are proud to do our part to support active transportation in Ohio." Communities submit projects, which a committee then ranks and judges based on a scoring system. The higher the score, the more likely a community stands to receive funds. In Huron The state provided Huron with $533,000 for its Lake Erie Parkway connector path. With work slated to start in 2026, it aims to connect the existing Lake Erie Electric Trail Path — a 1.2-mile recreational path linking Woodlands Elementary to Huron High schools — to the planned extension of the Sandusky Bay Pathway on U.S. 6 at Rye Beach Road. Based on the state funding start date, it's expected work should end by 2027. "This project is not just important for Huron but also the region in continuing to add more multimodal connectivity for all to enjoy," interim city manager Stu Hamilton said. Hamilton noted the city's share of this cost remains unknown as of today. "We intend to apply for more grants, both locally and state-funded," Hamilton said. "Any difference would be paid for out of the city's capital fund." Extending the bike path represents one component of a separate project paid for with a $24.5 million federal grant aimed at improving U.S. 6 between Sandusky and Huron. This would also involve installing roundabouts along this stretch. "This connection will not only improve connectivity for local residents for recreational use, but it also will create a pathway from the east side of town all the way to BGSU (Firelands), the corporate parks and also all the way through to Sandusky on the connectivity pathway to be installed on (U.S.) 6," Hamilton said. Meanwhile, the city intends to complete a long-awaited sidewalk project on Cleveland Road East later this year. In Port Clinton The state provided Port Clinton with $624,000 for sidewalks in Port Clinton. "This project will install approximately 2,900 feet of sidewalks on Jefferson Street and 11th Street; 1,000 feet of 5-foot-wide concrete sidewalks on Jefferson Street, including replacement of 145 feet of existing deficient sidewalk; and a deficient section of sidewalk and curb ramp on the southeast corner of Ann Street and Monroe Street. All of the work is located near Port Clinton Schools. It's not known if the city needs additional funding for these projects. Messages left for Mayor Mike Snider went unreturned.