Hudson City DPW outlines CHIPS funds, Ferris Street Bridge local share and staffing shortfalls

Rob Perry said the city’s CHIPS account shows a balance of $755,000, of which $370,000 is committed to a new street sweeper and $150,000 is allocated to reconstructing Harry Howard Avenue. "So, the balance is really more like 235 once we, you know, submit the reimbursements," he said.

Perry also said a separate $4 million award for a state touring route includes a significant local share committed to the Ferris Street Bridge; once that bridge project is closed out and paid off, he said, net funds should be available for future projects.

On operations, Perry said blacktop and patching work require larger crews (he estimated six to seven people) because the work demands flagging, equipment operators and multiple laborers. He reminded the group that two DPW positions were eliminated in the 2026 budget, which makes staffing pavement operations more difficult.

What’s next: DPW will pursue reimbursements to free up CHIPS resources and continue to manage crew schedules and equipment purchases to maintain paving operations despite staffing limits.