In Whiting, the city is getting a $5 million infrastructure grant to advance its Rail Corridor Overpass Project. The funding is from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant program. Officials say the at-grade railroad crossings have long created a barrier between the city and its Lake Michigan shoreline, impacting emergency response times and limiting connectivity between Whiting’s downtown and waterfront assets.
Whiting will receive $5,163,200 to advance the Rail Corridor Overpass Project that aims to improve public safety by supporting more reliable emergency access, enhancing mobility for residents and visitors, and strengthening the connection between Whiting’s neighborhoods, downtown, and lakefront, a news release said.
“This funding will address a critical public safety need that has existed in the City of Whiting for far too long. I congratulate Mayor Spebar, the Common Council, and all of the local leaders whose persistence and advocacy helped secure this significant federal investment. I am proud to support this investment, which will not only improve the quality of life and public safety for residents, but also help unlock new opportunities for economic development and tourism,” said northwest Indiana Congressman Frank J. Mrvan, who recently announced the award.
“The awarding to the City of Whiting of DOT’s Build Grant will allow us to complete engineering work on our overpass project,” said Whiting Mayor Steve Spebar. “The completion time for engineering work is projected at approximately the end of next year. This award is a significant step in making an overpass a reality in the City of Whiting. I want to thank Congressman Mrvan for his support in securing this grant.”
For additional information on the Department of Transportation’s BUILD Grant program, click here.
