Just What Is L-RAP Anyway??

What is L-RAP??
We've heard time and again, discussions at the Board of Selectmen's meetings regarding the Road Commissioner's use of L-RAP money.
L-RAP is a commonly used term for LOCAL ROADS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM, a Grant given by the State to assist smaller towns with maintaining their roads.
I had a nice conversation with Road Commissioner Tom Torno this afternoon who says the L-RAP money is given for capital improvements to rural town's roadways. According to Tom, the funds can be used for anything from installing new traffic lights, engineering on new roadways, rebuilding old roadways, culverts, ditching or paving projects. The money is supposed to be used on projects that are expected to last 10 years or more.
Mr. Torno says that his father, late Road Commissioner Larry Torno, was sure to apply for these funds every year, however prior to his father's term, he doesn't know how often it was available or applied for.
Last year the Town of Lebanon was granted $84,344.00 through the program. Torno says this year they are being told the amount will probably be a little more. The amount changes year to year depending on how much total is available, and how many towns apply for the grant.
Many thanks to Lebanon Road Commissioner Tom Torno for explaning the term L-RAP to us!!
It sounds like a GREAT program!!