Aug. 31—Support of the Joplin City Council will be sought Tuesday for a resolution to apply for a $16 million federal grant to build a railroad bridge or other structure to replace the railroad crossing on Central City Road between 20th and 32nd streets.
If the council endorses the resolution, it commits the city to do the project if the grant is awarded. City officials would apply for a Railroad Crossing Elinination Grant offered by the U.S. Department of Transportation through the U.S. Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
If the grant were awarded, the federal share of the project cost would be $12.8 and the city would pay $3.2 million, totaling $16 million. The city’s share would be paid from the transportation sales tax fund.
Eligible projects for the grant include railroad grade separation or closure, including the construction of a bridge, embankment, tunnel or track relocation to separate motor vehicle traffic from train crossings, according to a staff report. The elimination of railroad crossings is intended to reduce injuries and deaths of motorists who are involved in a train collision.
The application deadline is Sept. 23.
The railroad crossing is located in the area of the growing residential, senior living and commercial development of Wildwood Ranch.
In addition, staff will seek council authorization of an emergency ordinance that would permit the city to transact an agreement with the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission to receive state funds of $101,121.25.
The money would be used to pay some of the operating costs of the Metro Area Public Transit System and Sunshine Lamp Trolley.
City documents state that the funding would apply to operational costs through June 30, 2025. Although the trolley service is not currently operating, MAPS is still in operation. City staff is working on developing a regional transit authority for trolley service that would involve nearby communities.
The council also consider a list of grants for certain expenses of regional annual festivals and events that are awarded by the Joplin Convention and Visitors Bureau and funded by a lodging tax.
The council is meeting on Tuesday rather than its regular Monday because the city is closed on the Labor Day holiday.
Amanda Smith is a dedicated U.S. correspondent with a passion for uncovering the stories that shape the nation. With a background in political science, she provides in-depth analysis and insightful commentary on domestic affairs, ensuring readers are well-informed about the latest developments across the United States.
