Dear Editor,
I read with interest where Indianola Alderman Gary Fratesi “expressed his displeasure at the Mississippi Department of Transportation’s decision to spend nearly $1.3 million for Indianola sidewalks and beautification projects when roads need fixing.”
Apparently Mayor Steve Rosenthal attempted to explain to the alderman that this money could not be used for bridge or highway repair. That was not a decision made by the Mississippi Department of Transportation. These federal funds are restricted to transportation-related projects, such as sidewalks, bike trails, railroad depot renovations, etc.
The award of these funds is very competitive. Requests far exceed grants available. I approved this grant for the City of Indianola because it meets the required federal regulations judged to be one that will improve safety, convenience, and quality of life for the citizens of Indianola. It was not approved because I thought it was more important than roads and bridges. That was not an option.
When complete, I am confident that Alderman Fratesi will be pleased that Mayor Rosenthal had the vision to make this request.
COMMISSIONER DICK HALL
Chairman, Mississippi Transportation Commission
