December 28, 2011

GOV. MALLOY ANNOUNCES STEAP GRANTS FOR TOWNS IN SOUTH EAST CONNECTICUT

East Haddam, East Lyme, Preston, Voluntown Receive Capital Improvement Funding

(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that the towns of East Haddam, East Lyme, Preston and Voluntown have each been awarded Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) grants for various capital improvement projects.

"STEAP grants are a critical part of helping Connecticut's small towns work to improve infrastructure, encourage economic development and create jobs," said Governor Malloy. "These grants allow us to make investments that will improve the overall quality of life for our residents."

East Haddam: $100,000 for East Haddam Water Pollution Control Authority renovations

The Town of East Haddam will receive $100,000 for the design and construction of renovations to the sewer treatment plan owned and operated by the East Haddam Water Pollution Control Authority. The redesign, rehabilitation and repair will extend the life and service capacity of the facility, which was built in 1996. Improvements will increase efficiency, enhance worker safety and improve environmental protections.

"This upgrade to the Water Pollution Control Authority is of critical importance to the town of East Haddam," Rep. Linda Orange (D-Colchester, East Haddam) said. "The project is desperately needed and I am very pleased to see it get funding to move forward."

East Lyme: $400,000 for Main Street Revitalization Project

The Town of East Lyme will receive $400,000 for Phase IIIC of their Main Street revitalization project. The project includes LED street lights and lighted bollards, parking lot trees and landscaping, connection to Main Street, and a new streetscape north along Pennsylvania Avenue. This project builds on Phases I and II that have stimulated reinvestment in privately-owned downtown properties and have lead to the establishment of ten new businesses along and within three blocks of Main Street.

"I want to thank Governor Malloy for understanding the important role this grant will play in beautifying East Lyme's downtown and boosting economic activity that grows jobs and supports our local merchants," said Sen. Andrea Stillman (D-East Lyme, Montville, New London, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Salem & Waterford). "This is the type of smart investment the state can make to help build stronger communities."

"I am very pleased these funds have been approved to continue this important business-friendly project in East Lyme and thank Governor Malloy for his commitment to making sure it continues to be funded," said Rep. Ed Jutila (D-East Lyme, Salem). "The improvement work thus far has provided an economic boost to the area and has enhanced the quality of life for residents and visitors alike."

Preston: $500,000 for Norwich State Hospital Property Development

The Town of Preston will receive $500,000 for the abatement and demolition of the theater and chapel located on the former Norwich State Hospital property, now known as the Preston Riverwalk. The designated buildings are beyond repair and will be removed in order to complete a redevelopment of the site. The town plans to create a business park to encourage development and sustainable growth. The project will immediately employ 50-100 workers towards that end.

"We deeply appreciate the Governor's support for this important regional asset," said Sen. Andrew Maynard (D Griswold, Groton, North Stonington, Plainfield, Preston, Sterling, Stonington & Voluntown). "The funds will be put to good use addressing the environmental cleanup of one of the area's most promising economic development opportunities."

"This STEAP grant is one more major step forward in a renewed state and local partnership on behalf of eastern Connecticut's economic growth. It is clear that Gov. Malloy is committed to our region in a very real way," said Rep. Tom Reynolds (D-Ledyard, Preston, Montville).

Voluntown: $180,000 for Church Street and Route 165 Intersection

The Town of Voluntown will receive $180,000 for the reconfiguration of the highway intersection and sidewalks at Route 165 and Church Street. The project will address a number of safety concerns, such as obstructed sight lines and a lack of sidewalk space, in addition to improving the overall aesthetics of the area.

"This funding will go a long way toward helping Voluntown address road and streetscape improvements that have been part of their municipal planning for years. We thank the Governor for his support," said Sen. Maynard (D Griswold, Groton, North Stonington, Plainfield, Preston, Sterling, Stonington & Voluntown).

"This is an important safety project Voluntown has been planning for some time," said State Representative Steven Mikutel (D-Griswold, Lisbon, Plainfield, Voluntown). "This infrastructure upgrade will improve the flow of traffic. Governor Malloy should be commended for this decision."

The State Bond Commission, under Governor Malloy's leadership, allocated $20 million for STEAP grants on September 23, 2011. The awards, which will be awarded to small towns from throughout the state, were granted in part due to project readiness and their impact on overall regional economic development.

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For Immediate Release: December 28, 2011

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