In an effort to reduce the national deficit, Community Development grants have been cut in half.

Funded through the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, Community Development grants have helped fund various projects throughout greater Baldwinsville including park and sidewalk improvements as well as rehabilitation to crumbling infrastructure. Applying municipalities were previously eligible to receive up to $100,000 per grant for approved projects. The maximum grant is now $50,000.

Both Baldwinsville and Van Buren have submitted applications for the 2012 grants, which are available for areas that meet established criteria (such as low-income areas and handicap improvements in public areas). Municipalities must match 25 percent of the total project cost, which can be made in-kind services.

Van Buren’s 2012 and 2013 application included: pavement rehabilitation to town roads in Seneca Knolls; and a capital improvement project to correct failures and deficiencies found in the Lower Seneca Knolls sanitary sewer mains and laterals.

Baldwinsville’s 2012 and 2013 application included: Community Park site improvements (trails, camp sites and playground); renovations to Tabor, Margaret and Wood streets (including sidewalks); and Mercer Park waterfront improvements.

Municipalities will be notified in the fall whether they will be awarded the grants.