More money available for Troy

Second round for city improvement funding opens up

TROY, N.Y. » The city is looking for more projects to fund this summer.

The Troy City Council announced Tuesday it’s seeking proposals for a second round of funding by the Neighborhood Improvement Program. Money is available to neighborhood groups, non-profits, and community organizations for projects which preserve or restore existing community character or highlight and celebrate the culture and heritage of the neighborhood or the City,” according to a release.

The deadline to apply in this round is July 9, no later than 4:30 p.m.. There’s about $3,500 available, though no one project can be awarded more than $1,000. The City Council intends approve funding proposals by Aug. 2.

The application, along with guidelines, can be found online at www.troyny.gov/government/ city- council/. One can also go to the City Clerk’s Office on the fifth floor of 433 River St. Those with questions could also email the clerk at tocityclerk@troyny.gov.

Some of those guidelines are that supplies should be purchased locally if possible, and that while direct payments can be made to vendors, payments to individuals won’t be approved.

Already $ 8,500 has been awarded. Completed projects include the restoration of World War II monuments in the 11th Ward (South Troy) 1st Wards (Little Italy).

Those looking to apply are asked to think along the lines of public art projects, such as murals.

“We have been tapping into different groups that haven’t participated in the NIP in the past in hopes of bringing more innovative approaches to projects and involving more people,” said

Councilman TJ Kennedy in a release. “The more the merrier definitely applies to this pro-

especially in the project evaluation process and determining allocation of funds.”

Funding comes from the Troy Capital Resources Corporation, which usual l y gives $ 9,000. This year was different in that an additional $ 3,000 was requested. Kennedy said earlier this month that the total dollar amount being requested by those interested routinely exceeded $13,000.

The program has also tightened its criteria for approval. Generally, projects should be highly visible, involve at least three volunteers, attempt to partner with local groups, and be in line with the city’s Comprehensive Plan while doing something to preserve Troy’s character, culture, or heritage.

No projects outside the city limits will be considered, nor will church groups.