Last week, Louisville Metro announced it will receive $20.5 million in federal funding for two transformational projects which will improve connectivity and promote economic development and equity in downtown Louisville. $15.5 million was awarded for the final design and construction of the ‘Reimagine 9^th Street’ project and an additional $5 million was allocated for a planning grant for the ‘Broadway All the Way’ project. Both projects will improve connectivity, mobility, safety, and aesthetics while promoting quality of place for these vital corridors. This funding will build on state and local efforts in breaking down the 9^th Street Divide and are integral to the revitalization and connectivity of West Louisville.

The Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grants were awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation and were a key topic of conversation during GLI’s DC Fly In event last month. GLI investors and staff had the opportunity to speak with USDOT Deputy Assistant Secretary on the importance of these federally funded infrastructure grant programs and the significant impact they would have for our community. The RAISE grants, funded through the historic and bi-partisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act of 2021 (IIJA), focus on helping communities modernize transportation systems to make them safer, affordable, and sustainable.

Federal infrastructure funding has been a key priority of GLI’s advocacy because of the significant impact these investments will have in encouraging investment, employment, and economic development. Last year, GLI’s VP of Government Affairs & Communications, Shelby Somervell, travelled to D.C. to meet with Kentucky’s federal delegation and advocate for the passage of the IIJA. GLI is grateful for the support of federal, state, and local leaders and their efforts to provide matching funds to capitalize on the grant programs available through this legislation.

ReImagine 9^th Street

This $24.6 million plan will transform 9^th street from a six-lane thoroughfare into a complete street, safe for pedestrians and bicycles with dedicated bus lanes, green infrastructure, and traffic-calming measures. There will be opportunities for further community engagement on this project as work to finalize the design and construction documents begin in 2023. Construction is expected to begin in 2025 with additional funding coming from both the state and local governments.

Click here for more information the ReImagine 9^th Street plan.

Broadway All the Way

Louisville Metro began work for a new vision for the Broadway corridor in 2019 with an emphasis on premium transit options. Partners have been engaged in gathering feedback from the businesses and residents who live and work along the corridor.

In the next phase funded through the RAISE grant, officials will look at implementing Bus Rapid Transit and enhancing pedestrian and bus shelters. In conjunction with GLI investor Gresham Smith, a local engineering and landscape architecture and design firm, a complete draft plan is expected in 2025.

Click here for more information on Broadway All the Way.