Wick Neighbors group awarded 2 more federal grants

STAFF REPORT

YOUNGSTOWN — An organization working to redevelop the Wick District-Smoky Hollow section of Youngstown received two federal grants to help with its efforts.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded $665,000 to Wick Neighbors Inc., and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers provided $550,000 to the organization.

The money will be used for infrastructure improvements for the 66-acre area bounded by Wick, Andrews, Rayen and Madison avenues on the North Side.

To date, Wick Neighbors has received more than $4.2 million in federal, state and local funds for infrastructure upgrades to the proposed $100 million project that would include new housing units, retail space, and park and public space.

The “project is moving forward with strong funding support from federal, state and local governments and the continued commitment and backing of our members and stakeholders,” said Margaret Murphy, Wick Neighbors’ executive director.