Franklin seeking grants

FRANKLIN — Franklin Borough is seeking residents' help in securing a grant that could be used to construct a path around Franklin Pond and beautify the Main Street corridor.
According to Councilwoman Dawn Fantasia, Franklin is in the process of putting together an application for a federally-funded Transportation Alternatives Program grant but needs expressions of community support to complete the package.
Fantasia first brought the idea of the TAP grant to the Borough Council's attention in August as a way to move forward with plans to construct a path around the pond after the project stalled due to spending concerns. Depending on the proposal specifications, the grant could provide the borough with $150,000 to $1 million for eligible projects, such as the design and construction of trails for non-motorized forms of transportation and scenic viewing areas, as well as streetscaping and corridor landscaping.
Fantasia on Tuesday said the borough is aiming to secure funding to construct a pedestrian and bike path around Franklin Pond and for streetscaping and beautification of the Main Street area.
As part of its application package, the borough must gather letters from any and all interested parties — including citizens and community organizations like business associations and historical groups — backing the grant proposal.
Fantasia said letters of support should be addressed to the Borough. Suggested points to address include how the project could improve the health and quality of life for residents; how the project might provide a safe place for healthy recreation; how the project might connect different recreation areas in the pond area; and how the project might promote economic development and benefit business in the borough. All letters should be signed and dated; scanned letters with a signature can also be submitted via email to the borough administrator.
The deadline for the 2016 TAP applications to be submitted is Nov. 10.