City of Grand Rapids issued the following announcement on Mar 21.
The City of Grand Rapids will receive nearly $1.5 million in federal funding as part of the recently signed consolidated appropriations act. The money will be used to bolster ongoing public safety programs and accelerate investment in a key infrastructure project along César E. Chávez Avenue SW. The investment reflects continued support for key City initiatives from West Michigan’s congressional delegation.
“We’re very appreciative of the continued support and engagement by our elected leaders in Congress,” said Grand Rapids City Manager Mark Washington. “Senator Peters, Senator Stabenow, and Congressman Meijer understand the challenges and opportunities facing our City and their support in securing this funding reinforces their commitment to a shared vision for a community that is safe, prosperous, and successful.”
The bill provides direct funding to three specific programs: Cure Violence, Mental Health Crisis Co-Response, and rebuilding César E. Chávez Avenue SW – formerly Grandville Avenue SW.
The $600,000 in funding for Cure Violence was secured by Rep. Peter Meijer and is intended to provide support for a proven, community-based violence reduction program. Cure Violence stops the spread of violence by using methods and strategies associated with disease control – detecting and interrupting conflicts, identifying and treating the highest risk individuals. The City selected the Grand Rapids Urban League last year to implement to program. This new federal funding will augment existing investments by the City and local community partners.
Another key public safety initiative, Mental Health Crisis Co-Response, will receive $180,000. Senators Peters and Stabenow identified funding for the Grand Rapids Police Department’s ongoing pilot program. This funding would support a co-response model that deploys a trained crisis intervention team (CIT) officer and a trained mental health professional into the field to respond to calls where a mental health crisis exists.
Senator Peters also obtained $700,000 for the City to invest towards rebuilding César E. Chávez Avenue SW. The street, formerly known as Grandville Avenue, serves as a key roadway in a rapidly growing and changing area of the City. This funding will help in rebuilding this critical thoroughfare.
The City is eager to put these funds to work improving public safety and infrastructure.
Original source can be found here.
Source: City of Grand Rapids
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