FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Eligibility

Q: What types of projects will be considered for ARPA funding from the city?

A: The steering committee is looking for projects that are sustainable, accountable, and will have a long-term impact on the city. This funding will not be available on an on-going basis in the future. The committees are looking for projects that will positively change the trajectory of a community organization or neighborhood.

Q: What is the eligibility criteria for proposed projects and programs?

A: The federal government’s full criteria for ARPA funding is available here. An overview of the criteria is available here.

 In short, projects that began after March 3, 2021, that address a public health or economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, may be eligible. If you are unsure if your project is eligible, submit an application and the city will determine the project’s eligibility.

 In addition, the City of Troy has their own criteria and discretion to award funds based on the needs of the city. The City is specifically looking for sustainable, accountable projects that will have a long-term impact on the city.

Q: Will ARPA funding only be awarded to not-for-profit [501(c)(3)] organizations?

A: While ARPA funding is not exclusively available to non-profit organizations, recipients must have demonstrated the ability to set up programs and administer funds in a non-discriminatory and accountable manner.

Groups or individuals with project ideas may work with an established not-for-profit to receive funding.

To find out what not-for-profits are active in Troy and learn about their mission, visit: https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/ and https://www.guidestar.org/ (requires free registration). In the search feature, limit your search to organizations in Troy, NY.

Q: Can homeowners directly apply for ARPA funding?

A: Homeowners are encouraged to work with established not-for-profits, such as the Troy Improvement Rehabilitation Project (TRIP) and Troy Architecture Program (TAP), to request funding for specific projects.

 Q: Are program delivery costs an eligible expense?

A: Yes. Program delivery/administrative costs are an eligible expense.

 Q: Some issues, such as childcare or youth programming, may require staffing/operational costs to address. Will proposals for programs in these categories be considered if they include staffing or operational costs?

A: Yes. We understand some programs may require funding for on-going or operational costs and these should still be submitted for consideration.

Q: Are projects eligible for funding if they have already started?

A: Expenses after March 3, 2021 are eligible for ARPA funding.

Q: Will proposals for smaller amounts of funding – $10,000 or less – be considered?

A: Yes. While the city does not have the resources to administer funds for hundreds of small projects, such projects will still be considered and may be submitted. Similar projects from groups and individuals may be created into larger project or program.

Q: Will TroyNow ARPA awards be reimbursement based?
Some projects will be reimbursement based, others will not. This will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Application Process

Q: What is the deadline for applications?

A: The deadline for project applications is May 6, 2022.

Q: What is the deadline for using the funds awarded?

A: Funds have to be committed by December 31, 2024 and fully spent by December 31, 2026.

Q: Will preference be given to projects that have matching funds?

A: The city’s primary criteria for ARPA investments is sustainability. Matching funds are not necessary, but they indicate a higher level of support and likely success of a project, which will strengthen a project application.

Q: Should proposals be submitted by an individual or by a group?

A: Individuals may submit proposals for projects, but submission from a group indicates neighborhood or community support and is encouraged.

Q: How should proposals be structured and what information is needed?

A: The application for proposed projects can be found on our Submit Ideas page. Please complete the form to the best of your ability, though applications with missing information will still be reviewed. While an exact budget is not necessary at this time, a well thought-out estimated budget is appreciated and will strengthen your application.

Q: How and when will applicants be contacted regarding the status of their application?

A: The timeline of when applicants will be contacted depends on the volume of applications the city receives.

Q: Can organizations submit applications for multiple projects?

A: Yes. Submit each project separately.

Q: Does a budget need to be submitted in the application?

A: While an exact budget is not required on the application, a well thought-out estimated budget is appreciated and will strengthen your application.

 

City Spending Plans

Q: What is the city’s plan to invest ARPA funds in city parks?

A: The city has a Parks Master Plan, created in 2021, that guides the City’s investment in city parks. This can be viewed on the city’s website at https://www.troyny.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/City-of-Troy-Parks-Master-Plan_11-21.pdf

 

Q: How will the public art funding be spent?

A: The Arts Center of the Capital Region has partnered with the City of Troy to create a Public Art Master Plan. This plan will guide the distribution of the ARPA funds allocated to public art.

Q: Will all projects funded by ARPA be located downtown?

A: No, Troy Now projects will be distributed throughout the city.

Please note, The Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) is a separate initiative led by New York State. With up to $10 million available for projects in downtown Troy. To learn more about the DRI, visit troydri.com. The deadline for DRI applications was Apr 1, 2022.

Q: Does the city plan to use ARPA funding for larger infrastructure projects, such as repairing water lines?

A: The city prefers to utilize other sources of funding for large infrastructure projects that would use a significant amount of the ARPA funding. The ARPA funding is unique in that it can be spent on a wide range of uses and projects, and the city would like to take advantage of the opportunity to fund projects throughout the city.

Q: What role do our schools play in Troy Now?

A: Schools received their own ARPA funds from the federal government and will distribute it themselves. Questions related to that funding should be directed to the Troy or Lansingburgh School Districts.