Rep. Peter Welch on Monday announced a $114,000 federal grant to improve the energy efficiency of the O'Brien Community Center in Winooski.

The funds will be used to fully insulate the community center's roof and implement other energy-saving measures. The O'Brien Center spent $4,000 in heating bills last year. Once the new roof is installed, the center is expected to save 45 percent in heating costs.

"This grant will go a long way to improving a vital community center which provides great service to the people of Winooski," Welch said. "By making the O'Brien Center more energy efficient, we will help Winooski save money and do our small part to fight climate change."

Welch made the announcement at the O'Brien Center Monday morning alongside several Winooski residents, including Parks and Recreation Director Bob DiMasi, Mayor Mike O'Brien, Acting City Manager George Cross, YMCA former board chairwoman Molly Lambert, chair of the project committee Penrose Jackson, YMCA Executive Director Mary Burns, Patricia McKitrich, Rep. Clem Bissonette, Director of Community Development J Ladd.