House Republican Press Release
March 28, 2008
Press Office: 860-240-8700
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Governor Rell and Rep. Sawyer Announce $400,000 for Marlborough Town Green |
Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that the town of Marlborough received a $400,000 state grant to make improvements to the emerging Town Green.
The funds are being awarded through the Connecticut Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP). STEAP provides financial assistance for projects that encourage economic development and preserve the character of the state’s less-populated towns.
Marlborough will use the grant for making streetscape and infrastructure improvements in its developing town center. The projects include new seating, landscaping, lighting, a gazebo and other fixtures as well as removing utility poles. The project has a total cost of $1.15 million.
“Marlborough, like so many communities across Connecticut, is working hard to manage its growth in a way that encourages economic development without losing its local charm,” Governor Rell said. “That can be difficult even in larger towns and cities. So programs like STEAP are a critical way of encouraging the ‘smart growth’ we must have to balance needed development with the essential effort to keep Connecticut’s quality of life.”
State Representative Pam Sawyer (R-55) added: “I am dedicated to nurturing the growth of Marlborough’s village center and this grant will be a major step forward for the town. We will be able to link more of the local businesses and encourage greater foot traffic, reducing the amount of driving people have to do. And the local economy will benefit from greater visibility as more people see the Town Green as the hub of their community.”
The Governor also thanked state Senator Mary Ann Handley (D-4) for her support of the funding.
More than $19.7 million in STEAP funds for 72 towns were proposed for approval on the Bond Commission agenda Friday. The funds will enable 83 projects across the state to move forward.