City Council voted Tuesday night to appropriate state funds for two extension projects on the Riverwalk Trail. The money is coming from the Virginia Department of Transportation’s transportation alternative program and would pay for 80 percent of the cost.
One extension would be from the future Riverfront Park to Union Street Bridge Road. The state is providing $357,680, with a required local match of $89,420.
The second extension would be from the Robertson Bridge to Riverside Drive. The state is providing $164,000, with a required local match of $41,000.
In other matters, City Council reviewed the latest financial statements, voted to submit economic development projects to be included in a list of regional priority projects, and executed an agreement with American Municipal Power to handle metering and billing for the three local solar farms that will become operational later this year.
Also, City Council held a first reading on a federal grant to be used to pay for the salary and benefits for the youth services and gang violence prevention coordinator as well as other expenses related to the program.
A first reading is an introductory step required by City code before certain matters can be voted upon by City Council. This step serves to provide public notice of pending action. The council could not vote on the grants Tuesday night. The earliest vote that can take place will be the March 3 City Council meeting.