Dubois County Highway Department Adjusts to State Funding Changes

The Dubois County Highway Department provided an update on some changes in state funding that could affect both upcoming road projects and the county’s transportation revenue.

The next call for Community Crossing Grant project submissions is coming up, and the application window opens September 1. New state legislation restricts the maximum grant distribution to the difference between the $1 million CCMG maximum and funding received through the lane mile direct distribution model (LMDD). In his public comments, County Highway Engineer Levi Leffert said that since the country received approximately $378,000 through LMDD, it is only eligible to receive up to $622,000 in CCMG funding.

Staff have evaluated roadways to find the best candidates for a CCMG application. These include Old Huntingburg Road (from Huntingburg City limits to 150 South), Mariah Hill Road, (from 1100 South to Spencer County line) Old Road 64 (from 500 West to Huntingburg City limits), Mill Street (from 400 North to Jasper City limits), and 400 North (from US 231 to Mill Street). The preliminary list will be reviewed and input will be solicited before the final selections are submitted in the application.

An update was provided on the gas tax discussion, with Leffert saying that the tax suspension has resulted in a loss of revenue for the county. Governor Braun indicated that he would be reimbursing the county for road and infrastructure revenue loss during the suspension, with full funding by November 1. The Highway Department received its first gas tax suspension check in the amount of $194,589.79 for the NEH fund, as well as a check for $38,655.17 for local roads and streets. This covers the time period from April 8 through May 31.

For more information, visit the Highway Department webpage at www.duboiscountyin.org

- By Drew Hasselbring