Project Scope:

Gaston County is constructing a new sidewalk and crosswalk spanning about 2,300 linear feet from the Creekside mobile home neighborhood to Tryon Elementary.

This project is being partially funded using money from the Federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) grant.

Background:

The Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) program provides a flexible funding source for State and Local governments to fund transportation projects and programs to help meet the requirements of the Clean Air Act (CAA) and its amendments. The legislation is codified at 23 USC Sec 149. In North Carolina, NCDOT serves as the administrator for this program. Many types of projects are eligible under the CMAQ program including bicycle and pedestrian facilities. In addition to improving air quality and reducing congestion, CMAQ projects can improve safety, and promote application of new and emerging technologies. The Federal share for planning, design, and construction is 80 percent, with a 20 percent local match. This project’s State Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) project number is BL-0033. Gaston County is constructing a new sidewalk and crosswalk spanning about 2,300 linear feet from the Creekside Manufactured Home Neighborhood to Tryon Elementary School. Creekside is the largest residential community within proximity to Tryon Elementary School. The community includes approximately 200 homes with approximately 40-55 students. This project would accommodate students and parents in the area south of the elementary school to safely walk to and from the school encouraging safe pedestrian movement and accessibility.