Crisco welcomes trail grants for Derby, Hamden, Naugatuck

DEEP funding to improve recreational areas 

HARTFORD - State Sen. Joseph J. Crisco, Jr., D-Woodbridge, Wednesday welcomed news the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has announced grants totaling $288,000 for recreational trail improvement and expansion projects in Derby, Hamden, and Naugatuck.

The local grants are part of a $5.8 million total package of state aid for 38 projects to build, expand or enhance greenways and multi-use trails in more than 27 communities across Connecticut.

“Once again, the residents of Connecticut are the beneficiaries of a bipartisan investment in our environment and the public enjoyment of all the natural beauty that we have in this state, which is one of the reasons why Connecticut is consistently ranked by Forbes Magazine as having one of the best qualities of life of any state in America,” Crisco said. 
“I hope families take the time this summer and fall to enjoy these improvements by getting outside, getting some fresh air and exercise, and spending some quality time together away from electronics and TVs.” 

• Derby will receive $24,000 for pedestrian bridge construction at PFC Frank P. Witek Park. The 22x8 foot ADA bridge to be installed on existing abutments connecting existing walkways and creating fishing access.

• Hamden will receive $184,000 for the Center Park Spur Trail to create a 1,000 foot paved connector (with bridge) between the Farmington Canal Heritage trail and the Town Center Park, complete with benches and signage. The paved connector will be eight feet wide with a two foot shoulder; the bridge is 40 feet long.

• Naugatuck will receive $80,000 for the Naugatuck Andrew Mountain Property Trails to develop a managed trail system in 130 acres of recently acquired open space. The work will include a welcome kiosk, trail signs, way-finder signs, natural diversity description signs, benches, a parking lot, portable toilets and a dog park. There are a few small stream crossings that will require wooden bridge crossings.

“Through our Recreational Trails program, we are providing funds that will provide attractive opportunities for more families to enjoy the outdoors, and to have the chance to spend time together outside,” said DEEP Commissioner Robert Klee.  
“We applaud Governor Malloy and members of the General Assembly for making these funds available and allowing us to continue improving and connecting the many tremendous trail and greenway networks in our state.”

DEEP has expanded the scope of its Recreational Trails Program under terms of Public Act 15-190 - which received unanimous and bipartisan support in the legislature - and which allowed the agency to provide funding for a full range of multi-use trails and greenways projects.  
At a recent meeting, the state Bond Commission authorized $7 million for the grants.

Funds received through this program may be used for locally supported trails and trail systems, bikeways and multi-use paths.  
Grant money can be allocated for a wide variety of purposes, including planning, design, land acquisition, construction, construction administration, and publications for bikeways, walkways, and greenways as well as for equipment and trail amenities, such as parking lots, toilet buildings, signs, and benches.


This is a press release from Crisco's office.