Here in Penfield, we are fortunate to have a community with many great quality of life indicators such as our parks and trail systems, recreation programs for residents, strong schools, and vibrant community service organizations.Opportunity awaits. How can we do better?
But enhancing quality of life for residents is always on the minds of Penfield Town Board members. While it would be great to have unlimited financial resources to improve and enhance Town facilities, lands, and parks, that is not usually the case.
However, the United States Congress’ American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) has provided a unique opportunity for our Town to further enhance quality of life and positively impact our community.
What is ARPA?
The American Rescue Plan Act was passed by the United States Congress in March of 2021 to provide relief funds to assist state and local governments recover from the adverse economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and make investments for the future. As part of ARPA, the Town of Penfield was awarded $3.8 million in State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF). The amount received by each municipality was based on population, so a larger municipality like the Town of Greece, NY received more funds than Penfield.
Per funding requirements, ARPA funds cannot be used to supplant existing revenue to reduce the tax levy, however the funds can be used for a host of other projects. Funds must be committed to projects by December 31, 2024 and must be spent by December 31, 2026.
Planning process underway
With ARPA funding, we have an opportunity to pursue much-needed capital improvements and projects that will directly improve our quality of life in Penfield.
Over the past few months, our Town Board began evaluating ways to allocate the awarded funds, with the intent of utilizing the funds in visible ways across the entire community.
At this time, we have selected the projects outlined below. Please note this is not an exhaustive or final list.
- Infrastructure improvements at Shadow Pines including electric, water, parking, restrooms, and pavilions/shelters
- Pickleball Courts at Shadow Pines
- Improvements to Four Corners District
- Continued upgrades of Town streetlights to LED lighting
Feedback wanted
The Town Board will be holding a public hearing on the projects listed above on July 20 at 7 p.m. in the Penfield Town Hall Auditorium. The meeting will be livestreamed as well.
Looking ahead, we will continue working with residents to determine what projects and programs in our community could potentially be funded in whole or part by ARPA funds. We deeply value your feedback which will ultimately help the Town Board in its decision-making process.
Marie Cinti
Town Supervisor