During a recent government meeting, the council approved the acceptance of a $5,060,000 transportation alternatives grant for Phase 2 of the Red Bud Trail project, which includes the construction of a bridge over the Whitewater River. This funding, which requires no local match, combines federal and state resources, marking a significant step forward for the project.

City officials noted that the grant application encompassed not only the bridge but also essential elements such as signage, fencing, and stormwater improvements to ensure the trail segment meets operational and statutory requirements. The announcement of the funding came from the governor, although initial communications were somewhat unclear, only detailing the federal portion of the award.

The council discussed the reimbursement nature of the grant, clarifying that funds would only cover actual project costs, with any surplus returning to the state. Additionally, they addressed potential costs related to right-of-way acquisition and stormwater permitting, emphasizing the importance of careful planning as the project progresses.

The council also moved to authorize the programming request necessary to formalize the grant agreement, allowing the project to advance without delay. A training session is scheduled for next week to kickstart the project’s implementation.

In a separate agenda item, the council reviewed an operating agreement with Go Augusta regarding the Augusta Welcome Center and Frisco Depot, which governs the management and operations of these facilities. Further discussions on this topic are expected in future meetings.