House Republican Press Release

March 28, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Governor Rell & Rep. Adinolfi Announce $400,000 for Streetscape Project in Cheshire

HARTFORD- Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that a $400,000 grant has been awarded to the town of Cheshire for streetscape improvements. The funds were approved at today’s meeting of the State Bond Commission.

The grant was made available through the Connecticut Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) and will allow Cheshire to continue streetscape improvements along West Main Street from Deepwood Drive to Grove and Warren Streets. The project is part of a larger effort to create a “village center” in Cheshire.

“Village centers help develop strong local economies and this funding supports Cheshire’s effort to create a vibrant downtown area,” Governor Rell said. “Like many communities throughout the state, Cheshire recognizes the importance of having an attractive town center that connects businesses to residential and recreational areas.”

“This project coupled with other projects already underway in the town center will be a big boost for local businesses in Cheshire,” said State Representative Alfred Adinolfi (R-l 03).  “Adding a little more charm and character to the center will help bring people downtown and create new opportunities for local retailers. I am pleased I was able to help bring this funding to Cheshire.”

The state funded STEM grant program provides funds to eligible towns for economic development, community conservation and quality of life projects. To be eligible, a town must have a population of less than 30,000 residents, not be designated as a distressed municipality or a public investment community, and not have an urban center. The state Office of Policy and Management administers this program, and individual projects are managed by several state agencies including DECD.

This round of funding will pay for 83 projects in 72 towns totaling $19,714,058.