News Flash

Apply now for dust control services. Applications are open for a limited time and must be submitted by March 30, 2026.

Learn more about this year’s Spring Clean-Up, including free dump days at the Franklin County Transfer Station on April 24 and 25.

Franklin County and its local partners have been awarded a major federal and state grant to improve roadway and pedestrian safety, with a focus on flood-prone roads and data-driven planning. The project was spearheaded by Franklin County Development Council (FCDC) Executive Director Paul Bean, whose coordination and grant-writing efforts were key to securing the funding. FCDC received notification of the federal award on Dec. 23, following an application submitted last June.

The Safe Roads for Franklin County project totals approximately $825,820 and will be funded almost entirely through outside sources, including $660,656 in federal funds and $156,906.09 in state funding, leaving a local contribution of just over $8,000 for the entire effort.

The grant is part of a federal Safe Roads program focused on identifying high-risk areas and developing targeted safety solutions. The program is designed to address dangerous areas on local streets and roads by reducing the risk of crashes and injuries. Rather than immediate construction, the project emphasizes strategic planning and testing solutions based on local conditions.

Key strategic focus areas include:

• Flood-related roadway safety across the County, particularly in rural areas where high water frequently leads to road closures and emergency response needs
• Pedestrian safety improvements in Ottawa, with an emphasis on crosswalk visibility, signage, and overall safety enhancements
• Safety and signage improvements in Wellsville to improve pedestrian and traffic awareness

Overall funding by location includes $207,386.40 for the City of Ottawa, $123,400 for the City of Wellsville, and $495,033.60 for Franklin County.

The grant reflects the importance of coordinated planning and grant-writing efforts that made the funding possible; without this approach, the funds would not have been available locally. Additional funding is being pursued by FCDC to cover grant administration costs, which could further reduce staff workload and local impact. Next steps include notifying the state of the federal award, receiving the state award, and executing memorandums of understanding with both cities as the project moves into planning and implementation.