Holley eyes federal grant to help with new sidewalks

Photo by Kristina Gabalski: Village Board members have been discussing their concerns over the condition of sidewalks in Holley for some time. This photo shows sidewalks on Geddes Street.

HOLLEY – Village Board members have been concerned about deteriorating sidewalks in the community for years.

A federal grant could bring sought-after dollars to replace walkways in disrepair. Village Trustee Connie Nenni said the village is applying for a federally funded Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant which seeks to offer transportation choices for non-motorized users which are safe, reliable and convenient.

“The grant uses sidewalks as a form of transportation,” Trustee Nenni said.

The village needs personal letters of support from the community and is planning an informational meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 13, at 6:30 p.m. at the Village Office, 72 Public Square, just prior to the next regular Village Board meeting.

The village is light on downtown parking availability, Nenni explained.

“Some people may prefer to walk to dance class, the library, restaurants, canal concerts, church, or athletic events at the school or soccer fields – if the village had decent sidewalks,” she said. “Right now, when people walk in the village, they are usually seen in the road.”

With the focus of the grant to use sidewalks as a form of transportation, Nenni emphasized letters of support should focus on how sidewalks facilitate getting people from one place to another.

Sidewalks are also used recreationally and for exercise, she noted, but that use is not the focus of the TAP grant. Time is also of the essence. The village has only a few weeks to prepare and apply for the grant, making it important for residents to attend the Sept. 13 meeting, Nenni added.