Boonville

Three communities in the Mohawk Valley are getting a major financial boost to make walking, biking, and outdoor recreation safer and more accessible.

A combined $5.5 million in federal funding is headed to Boonville, Clinton, and Herkimer County for improvements to sidewalks, bicycle routes, recreational trails, and pedestrian access.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the awards as part of a larger statewide investment totaling more than $97 million.

That money will support 35 transportation projects across New York through the Federal Highway Administration's Transportation Alternatives Program.

So where exactly is the local funding going? The village of Boonville is receiving the largest share at $4.2 million.

That funding will support a coordinated series of improvements to pedestrian walkways, bicycle routes, trails, and village streets.

The goal is to create safer, more convenient connections throughout Boonville, making it easier for residents and visitors to get around without relying on a vehicle.

Meanwhile, the village of Clinton is receiving $840,000 to expand the Shenango Canal Trail.

It's Monday, October 5th, and this is Sentinel Today from the Daily Sentinel.

Today, a familiar face is taking charge of the Boonville Police Department with plans to strengthen enforcement, tackle staffing challenges, and build a closer connection with the community.

Before we jump in, a few other stories you should know about.

Munson has received a $200,000 grant to expand free and accessible arts programs for children and families in the Utica community.

More on that later.

For more on all these stories, visit us at ursentinel.com. Now, let's jump into today's feature story.

There's a familiar face now leading the Boonville Police Department.

Sergeant Alfred Montegari has taken over as officer in charge following the departure of former Chief David Olney, who recently became chief of the Whitesboro Police Department.