Covering COVID expenses. Repairing bridges, culverts, and storm water run-off to reduce flooding. Upgrading fire equipment. Replacing lost revenue. Building the new community center.

These are some ideas being floated on how Upper Darby will spend $41 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, writes Pete Bannan for the Daily Times.

The township received half the grant money, $20.5 million, this year and receives the rest in 2022.

Department heads and the public will have a chance to weigh in on how the money should be used.

 “We are in the early stages of building out our plan,” said township Chief Administrative  Officer Vincent  Rongione. 

The federal relief funds could also be used for mortgage and rental assistance.

“The mayor has said from the beginning of the pandemic that mortgage and rent assistance is a high priority,” Rongione said.  “She is very concerned that people can stay in their homes and get back on their feet. The same thing for small businesses.”

Other Delaware County communities are also receiving American Rescue Plan money.  Haverford is looking at $21 million while Chester is eligible for $30 million.

Funds must be spent by December 2026.

Read more at the Daily Times about American Rescue Plan relief funds.

Here are three videos of floodwaters that ravaged Upper Darby back in August 1991.