Burlington Reporter

COVID-19 relief money is finding its way to communities, and $11.5 million has been awarded to the city of Burlington to help improve infrastructure and public health services.

The funds are part of the American Rescue Plan Act.

“It can be life-changing for our citizens,” Peggy Reece, who oversees the city’s finances, told WGHP of the windfall.

City leaders a few years ago created a list of priorities for the community, but those that could be put on hold were as the city struggled with tight budgets, according to WGHP. Such projects included a recreational center on the city’s west side and resurfacing downtown streets and sidewalks. The city council now is tasked with deciding where the money will go.

“You want to make decisions to make a difference that will have a lasting effect,” Reece said. “I think it’s wise for the council to take their time and make sure they are making the right decision.”

Taxpayers are waiting to hear where the improvements will be made and when they will come.

Marty Crank, who has lived in Burlington for almost a decade, told the news station she’d like to see some beautification projects that will bring some areas up to par with the west end, which she said is a “wonderful place” to live.

“We need to draw people here because it’s beautiful,” she said.

There is no firm timeframe for when decisions will be made, or whether public discussion will be part of the process, the station reported.