MARLBOROUGH – Improvements to Winthrop Street, continuation of a housing rehabilitation program and programs for the Boys & Girls Club of MetroWest are among the projects in line for funding from a community block grant.
The state recently awarded Marlborough with a grant of $1.35 million, pending the execution of grant contracts to be sent by the state.
The grants were approved by the City Council on Nov. 13.
The funds will be allocated for the following:
Winthrop Street Infrastructure Project ($791,051)
The proposal includes replacement of the centuries-old drainage system; full-depth reconstruction of the roadways; replacement of sidewalks; and new granite curbing. New cement Americans With Disabilities Act-compliant wheelchair ramps will also be installed at all crossings. The Department of Public Works will administer the project and fund its overhead costs from the city budget.
Work should begin in the spring of 2024.
Housing Rehabilitation Program ($305,000)
About $240,000 will provide deferred payment loans to low- and moderate-income owner occupants and investor-owners of properties occupied by LMI households to complete needed repairs to an estimated six housing units; and $65,000 will be used to cover program delivery and administrative costs.
Improvements to be undertaken include repair or replacement of basic building systems such as roofs, heating systems, plumbing and electrical repairs; accessibility modifications; weatherization improvements; lead paint hazard reduction/abatement; abatement of asbestos hazards; and correction of other building or sanitary code violations. Applicant properties must be substandard to quality for assistance.
“Prevention through Positive Youth Development,” Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro West ($80,000) – Combined with $44,800 from the Massachusetts Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs to continue this successful program for two more school years.
This program was first funded with a fiscal 2018 community block grant, and continued in fiscal 2020 serving 50 low- and moderate-income young people (ages 10 to 17) at its Marlborough clubhouse each year.
The program addresses youth health-risk behaviors by providing programs that improve decision-making and critical-thinking skills, as well as helping participants learn how to avoid and/or resist alcohol and drug use, and premature sexual activity. The program’s collaborative approach includes education, prevention and enforcement opportunities.
The combined funds would be used toward a teen program coordinator; a program director; a prevention program instructor; supplies; and transportation.
