House Republican Press Release

April 1, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REP. O’NEILL APPLAUDS GRANTS FOR 69th DISTRICT Funds From STEAP Program for Roxbury, Washington

 HARTFORD – State Rep. Arthur J. O’Neill, R-Southbury, today applauded the release $745,000 in state funds for projects in Roxbury and Washington. The award was made by the State Bond Commission during its monthly meeting on Friday, March 28 at the State Capitol Complex.

The Town of Roxbury will receive $445,000. The Town of Washington will receive $300,000.

The $445,000 for the Town of Roxbury will be used to renovate Judds Bridge over the Shepaug River. The structure has begun to rust and following a July 2007 inspection, its condition was rated as poor.  Crucial supports for the bridge have corroded beyond repair and the wood deck is deteriorating.  Though the cost to rehabilitate the structure is high at $500,000, a total replacement would be significantly more.  The Town of Roxbury has already allocated $75,000 for the repairs, but without assistance from the State, this project would not be feasible, said Rep. O’Neill.

The bridge is a vital transportation link for the town, added Rep. O’Neill.  In addition to serving as the primary evacuation and emergency route for the west side of town, the span serves as the main conduit out of the farming valley through Roxbury. 

“Without the bridge, motorists would have to travel through New Milford, which is a considerable distance away and during the winter, that route can be treacherous,” said Rep. O’Neill.  “Should the bridge not be repaired, the town would be forced to close it.”

The $300,000 for the Town of Washington will be used to renovate the town beach at Lake Waramaug. The project includes the installation of new bathrooms, storage areas, a handicapped ramp and boat garage. Upgrades also call for replacing fencing, installing plantings and parking upgrades. The town will also contribute $230,000 toward the project cost.

 “The town beach on Lake Waramaug is a tremendous asset to Washington that is badly in need of upgrades,” said Rep. O’Neill. “The state funding will reduce the impact on local taxpayers and be help move the project from planning to the construction phase.”

 The STEAP program pays for economic development, community conservation and quality of life projects for municipalities that – because of their size – are ineligible to receive Urban Action bond funds. (A handful of larger towns have been added to the eligibility list by the Legislature.)