Article From: Gastonia's City News Source
The City of Gastonia announced Tuesday that it has been awarded $2 million in Reconnecting Communities Pilot (RCP) Grant Program funds. The money will be used to complete a feasibility and connectivity study for Project CHANGE, which stands for ‘Connecting Highland: Access, Neighborhood Growth, Equity.’
The purpose of this initiative is to address the significant barriers to mobility and economic development in one of the city’s transportation-disadvantaged communities to the north of the railroad ditch that divides Downtown Gastonia from those living in the Highland Community.
As part of the grant, the City of Gastonia will commit $500,000 (20%) towards this study, which will investigate the feasibility of capping the railroad ditch and creating a vital link between Highland and the Central Business District (CBD). The goal is to transform the ditch from a barrier into a community asset, enhancing access and promoting economic revitalization. Additionally, the project emphasizes the need for safety improvements along NC Highway 7, as well as connection improvements with US Hwy 74.
“We are very excited to have been given this grant,” said Gastonia Director of Transportation Randi Gates. “Capping the ditch has been part of the City’s vision and has been included in multiple planning documents. The challenge has been securing the necessary funding for a project like this.”
The concept of capping infrastructure to reconnect communities has proven successful in projects nationwide. Previously divided neighborhoods have been transformed into vibrant spaces that feature parks and civic areas.
This feasibility and connectivity study is essential for evaluating technical and financial aspects and for laying the groundwork to implement transformative changes that foster equity and connectivity in the community.
For more information about Project CHANGE and the RCP Grant Program, please contact Randi Gates at Randi.Gates@GastoniaNC.Gov or call 704-854-6604.
