Putnam County to use $7.5 million HUD grant for sidewalks at Mahopac and Brewster schools

The Putnam County Planning Department told the Physical Services Committee on Feb. 10 that the county has a $7.5 million sidewalk construction grant described in the meeting as 100% funded and associated with Congressman Lawler.

Commissioner of Planning, Development & Public Transportation Barbara Barosa said the funding will pay for sidewalk projects at Mahopac schools, Brewster schools and Secor Road in Mahopac. Barosa said the grant must be spent within eight years. Legislator Regan asked how project areas were identified; Commissioner of Public Works Thomas Feighery said the grant includes guidelines the area must meet. Legislator Montgomery noted the funding stems from the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and referenced congressional action that enabled the program.

Chairman Gouldman moved to pre-file the necessary resolution to accept and establish the line for the award; Legislator Sayegh seconded and the motion passed unanimously.

The committee did not at this meeting provide a project‑by‑project spending schedule; Barosa said the projects will be identified in keeping with grant guidelines and timelines.