Morristown Receives Federal Funding for Sidewalk Improvement Project
The Village of Morristown has received federal funding for its “Morristown Safe Multi-Modal Project” aimed at increasing safety, accessibility and connectivity throughout the community.
The funding was awarded through the Transportation Alternatives Program, with additional support from the Carbon Reduction Program (CRP) part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The funding is administered by the Ohio Department of Transportation.
Mayor Heather Stitt said village officials began exploring infrastructure improvements through the Transportation Alternatives Program designed for communities with populations under 5,000. During that process, Morristown learned it was eligible for additional federal funding through the Carbon Reduction Program.
In a letter to village officials, ODOT indicated CRP funding typically covers 80 percent of eligible project costs, with the remaining 20 percent eligible to be matched with federal safety funds.
Morristown applied for the grant in 2022 and was awarded $2.5 million in federal funding the following year. An additional $150,000 was provided by Belomar, the region’s council of governments, while the village and its park board each contributed $75,000 to cover soft costs. The total project budget is approximately $2.8 million.
The project began with preliminary planning through ODOT’s City Byway Program, which helped create the initial concept. The village worked with Belomar to submit the grant application.
Mannik & Smith Group was selected through a competitive selection process to serve as the project engineering firm.
Funding for the project became available on October 1, the current fiscal year. The village remains in planning phases. Timelines may adjust as the project progresses through ODOT and Ohio EPA reviews, but construction is expected to take place in 2027.
“If we are going to apply for future federal monies, we have to make sure that we have infrastructure in place,” Stitt said. “This grant will allow us to have new sidewalks and improve Americans with Disabilities (ADA) compliance. It opens up the door for us to get more funds to improve the streetscape.”
Gabe Hannahs, principal landscape architect with the Mannik & Smith Group and project lead, said deteriorating sidewalk conditions were a primary motivator for the project. Hannahs, who lives in Morristown, said many sidewalks are difficult to navigate, forcing pedestrians into the roadway.
“The sidewalks here are in terrible shape,” he said.
A grass sidewalk in Morristown will be replaced with concrete, thanks to a grant from the Ohio Department of Transportation. ©Barnesville Area News Company Photo.
According to Hannahs, the project will focus on improving sidewalks along Main Street and Church Street, parallel streets through the village. It will also address sidewalk gaps along East Cross Street, Middle Cross Street and West Street, including a connection to the village park. Drainage improvements are also included in the project.
“It will make it (Morristown) a walkable community,” Hannahs said.
Stitt said improved infrastructure can also support economic development, noting Morristown’s proximity to Interstate 70.
“The population in this area is growing,” she said. “These improvements help prepare our community for the future while preserving what makes Morristown special.”
As part of the project, bicycle connectivity will be improved by rerouting a portion of the National Road Bike Trail through the village rather than along the Route 40 bypass.
Village officials said the reroute will also enhance the visitor experience by directing cyclists into Morristown’s downtown business district.
“It’s a big safety standpoint,” Taylor said.
The timing of this project aligns with other community investments currently underway, including development of the Underground Railroad Museum at the Black Horse Inn.
Officials noted Morristown’s historical significance, having been founded in 1802, and said the project will help ensure residents and visitors can safely experience the community and its events.
“It gives visitors reason to come to Morristown,” Stitt said. “Belmont County is so beautiful, and it’s nice that we can share that. We’re proud of where we come from, we’re proud of where we’re going, and our park is a true delight.”
Intersections and sidewalks near the Black Horse Inn in Morristown will be upgraded to ADA standards. ©Barnesville Area News Company Photo.
Village council discussed the project at its December meeting, giving residents an opportunity to provide input.
“It’s important that our community has a voice in these projects,” Stitt said. “Its helps guide what we do.”
“It’s all coming together,” Stitt said.
Sidewalks in Morristown currently pose safety issues. ©Barnesville Area News Company Photo.
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