WASHINGTON, December 13 – Vermont’s congressional delegation – Sens. Patrick Leahy, Bernie Sanders and Rep. Peter Welch – today announced that St. Albans has been awarded a $2,088,496 federal grant for its ongoing streetscape project. The grant, awarded by the Department of Transportation, will fund continued downtown improvements.

The multi-phased project includes the comprehensive redesign of Main Street and its sidewalks; replacement of street lights, traffic signal arms, and traffic lights; replacement of street trees to better manage storm water; and the construction of signage. Street and traffic lights will be replaced with energy efficient LED lights.

Today’s grant is the most recent investment in the ongoing streetscape project. In 2009, Congressman Welch secured the initial $380,000 to get the project started. In October of 2010, Vermont’s congressional delegation
helped secure an additional $125,000. In October of 2011, the delegation wrote to Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood in support of the continued funding that was announced today.

“This project will be a real boost to St. Albans City.  It will create jobs, stimulate economic development, save energy and preserve the unique and historic downtown character,” Vermont’s congressional delegation said in a statement. “The city is making great strides in improving its downtown. This grant will accelerate that progress.”