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Got a Question??
Got a question that The Truth can help you
find the answer? One of our readers, Otha Duerson, did. He
also suggested that we start a regular feature in which our
readers could call or
email us their questions. So here we are … doing both.
Reader Duerson asked us to find out why
decorative islands are being constructed on Dorr Street
rather than using those funds to repair neighborhood streets
such as his that have been in dire need of repair for
several years.
Here’s the answer.
First, the funds for the island project came
from the American Recovery and Revitalization Act (stimulus
funds) and were requested by the City of Toledo Department
of Neighborhoods for that project. The department was able
to request stimulus package funds from the federal
government that would be specifically earmarked for
shovel-ready beautification projects.
Once received, these funds could not be
shifted to other capital improvement projects such as street
repair.
The history of the project, however, has a
bit of significance. The Dorr Street Coalition had
originally sought funds for the islands back in 2008 as part
of a larger strategic plan to revitalize Dorr and encourage
both business and residential development.
The Department of Neighborhoods was not able
at that time to come up with funds from city, state or
federal monies. Months later when the ARRA passed, the Dorr
Street project, along with several others in the city, was
approved.
Send us your
question at
thetruth@thetruthtoledo.com
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