Norwich commission endorses support for Hunters Road bridge and roadway grant application

City staff presented an informational briefing on a multi‑phase Hunters Road improvement project and asked the commission to endorse the submission of grant applications to fund design and construction.

The first phase, described by staff and the city engineer, would cover roughly 0.4 miles including two bridge/culvert replacements and road geometry improvements at an estimated cost of about $3 million for the phase; total program cost for the full corridor was estimated in discussion at roughly $4 million. Staff told the commission the typical funding split for the competitive grant is roughly 80% state and 20% city.

Commissioners said a formal statement from the commission supporting the grant application would be helpful for the funding packet; Commissioner Nicholas Porton moved support and the motion passed unanimously.

The commission’s endorsement does not commit the city to detailed design or final match obligations beyond standard grant application procedures; subsequent council and budget approvals would be required if funds are awarded.