(HARTFORD, CT) - Today, Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz joined Cromwell Mayor James Demetriades and Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) Deputy Commissioner Karen Kitsis to highlight a $229,200 grant awarded to the Town of Cromwell through the CTDOT's Community Connectivity Grant Program.
“Having accessible sidewalks for residents to use promotes safe walkable communities, attracts new investors, and fosters sustainable transportation options. Projects like this are emblematic of our state's commitment to investing in the economic development of our towns and cities, improving transportation accessibility and safety, and utilizing existing spaces to their fullest potential,” said Lt. Governor Bysiewicz. “I'm excited to see how these projects will shape the future of Cromwell and enhance the quality of life for its residents and visitors. Thank you to Mayor James Demetriades, State Senator Matt Lesser, State Representative Christie Carpino, and the team at CTDOT who work hard for the people of Cromwell and communities throughout Connecticut.”
"The connectivity grant on Willowbrook Road will allow increased pedestrian access and safety along a very busy road and allow the hundreds of residents in the Senior Living and Condominium communities to have access to Cromwell's public open space. It will crucially also bring an end to a sidewalk island that exists along Evergreen Road connecting two different sidewalk systems together allowing access to town open space and community businesses. Connectivity through sidewalks are key to a healthy and thriving community,” said Mayor Demetriades. “Thank you to Town Staff, DOT and the lieutenant governor for making this crucial project possible.”
Deputy Commissioner Kitsis said, “By building new sidewalks on Willowbrook and Evergreen Roads we are connecting one of Cromwell’s densest neighborhoods to town-owned open space and to the growing commercial district on Route 372. Improving walkability and safety in our rural, suburban, and urban communities are core focuses at CTDOT. We are proud to support sidewalk projects through the Community Connectivity Grant Program as they provide immediate benefits to residents and commuters.”
This funding will support 1,025 linear feet of sidewalks from 47 Willowbrook Road to the intersection of Willowbrook Road and Evergreen Road as well as ADA compliant curb ramps.
“Increasing pedestrian and bicyclist safety is just good policy and I am thrilled to see this funding reach Cromwell. Supporting our resident’s ability to walk or ride their bike to run errands around their neighborhood increases our sense of community, allows for healthy transportation options and decreases our reliance on single-passenger motor vehicle usage - a win all around! I’m grateful to Mayor Demetriades and Town Manager Salvatore who have worked hard to bring this funding to Cromwell. Thank you to Governor Lamont, Lieutenant Governor Bysiewicz, and Commissioner Eucalitto for their leadership on this great program,” State Senator Matt Lesser.
State Representative Christie Carpino said, “Cromwell has made deliberate and significant investments in prioritizing sidewalks over the past few years. Connecting our residents safely is important and I want to thank the Governor and Lt. Governor for their support in providing this funding so that we can continue our efforts. A connected town is key to our community.”
Now in its sixth round of awards, CTDOT’s Community Connectivity Grant Program provides financial support for local infrastructure initiatives that make conditions safer, more accommodating, and equitable for pedestrians and bicyclists in urban, suburban, and rural centers.