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Troy Mayor Carmella Mantello has outlined plans for the city's remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, totaling approximately $5 million. These funds will be directed towards three key projects: the revitalization of Frear Park, lead pipe replacement, and the city's peak ambulance project. The city received a total of $42 million in ARPA funds, which must be allocated by the end of Tuesday (December 31).
The Frear Park Revitalization Project will receive over $3.6 million. This project aims to improve the North Lake Avenue playground, enhance ADA compliance, upgrade tennis courts, and construct a new community and restaurant facility. Mayor Mantello emphasized the importance of Frear Park, stating that it is more than just a golf course and serves as a vital recreational area for the city and region.
In addition to the park improvements, $1 million will be allocated for the city's lead pipe replacement program. This initiative has already replaced over 400 lead pipes throughout Troy, setting a model for other municipalities in New York. The remaining $800,000 will go towards enhancing the city's ambulance services.
The reallocation of funds was approved by the City Council during a special meeting on Monday night. Mayor Mantello expressed confidence that these projects will contribute to making Troy safer, cleaner, and more affordable. However, City Council President Sue Steele noted that the proposal was sent to the council over the weekend, and there were concerns about whether the mayor had the necessary votes for approval. If the proposal had not been approved, the funds would have been returned to the federal government.
The projects are expected to be completed by December 31, 2026. Mayor Mantello assured that the funds came from projects that were completed under budget or did not meet the necessary deadlines for completion.