In October 2022, the City of Franklin was chosen to participate in a meeting with key state partners, including DOTD, in Baton Rouge to discuss the Louisiana Transportation Alternatives Program Grant. The aim was to tackle accessibility and safety concerns related to sidewalks, crosswalks, and areas with high pedestrian traffic throughout the city.
Collaborating with state partners like LADOTD, LSU Ag Center, Atchafalaya National Heritage Area, Acadiana Regional Transportation Safety Council, and Miller Engineering, it has been announced that the City of Franklin has been awarded a $546,337 grant. This funding will kickstart a three-year process of improving the busiest sidewalks across the city. The city’s commitment to generating more grant dollars relies on community support through shopping, eating, playing, and fueling locally. The LTAP grant provides 10% of the necessary matching funds from DOTD and engineering for Franklin City’s match at $54,633.
This LTAP grant will fund several projects including accessible bump-outs on Iberia Street at Main Street and Willow Street at Main Street; adding sidewalks and accessible features on various streets such as Iberia Street from Main Street to Weber Street; Willow Street from Teche Drive to Tenth Street; Main Street from Iberia to MLK; Adams Street; Jackson Street; Commercial Street from Teche Drive to Main Street. DOTD will determine the timeline for these projects which may involve 2-3 years of engineering planning before construction begins.
It is important to note that numerous other sidewalks still require attention since many have not been updated in over 30-40 years. The city administration is continuously seeking funding sources to address infrastructure and quality of life projects for all citizens. These sidewalk upgrades will not only enhance tourism and economic development but also improve mobility for disabled community members and seniors, making the city more accessible for all.