In a press release, Governor Ned Lamont's office announced it approved "the release of $24.5 million in state grants for 60 small towns in Connecticut that will be used to complete a wide variety of infrastructure improvements, such as road safety reconstruction projects, sewer and drainage upgrades, sidewalk and pedestrian safety enhancements, recreational facility upgrades, and other kinds of capital improvement projects."
The grants are part of the Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP), a state program managed by the Office of Policy and Management (OPM). The program is designed to "deliver grants to small towns for economic development, community conservation, and quality-of-life capital projects."
Stafford qualified for $209,274 in state funding to replace paving at the community center parking lot and lower parking area at the Kealy Complex. The grant will be matched by $10,000 in town funds and $21,228 in additional funding, according to the press release.
Originally the Board of Selectmen (BOS) voted to pursue this grant to purchase the former Cumberland Farms building near Town Hall, and the paving at the community center if time allowed. However, at a later meeting, Amber Wakley-Whaley, Director of Grants and Community Development, returned to inform the BOS that an appraisal of the Cumberland Farms building would be needed, and timing would not allow.
"The recommendation at that point was to combine paving and drainage at the Community Center and pavement at Kealy field parking lot," says Selectman Rick Hartenstein.
Senator Jeff Gordon said via press release, “Investing in northeast Connecticut is critical to the quality of life for people who live and work here, and attracting new residents and businesses to join our communities. While we are the ‘Quiet Corner,’ we can loudly advocate for what is needed in our towns. Returning this money to the 35th District helps towns to pay for these needed projects without having to raise additional property taxes.”
“Our small towns are an integral part of what makes Connecticut such a special place to live and work,” Governor Lamont said in the press release. “By working with them on these grants, the state can help get these vital projects completed so these towns can continue to grow, thrive, and attract businesses while improving the quality of life for our residents.”