Sen. Guglielmo, Rep. Bacchiochi Introduce Legislation to Fund Stafford Projects

State Senator Tony Guglielmo, R- 35th District and State Representative Penny Bacchiochi R-52nd District, and have introduced legislation that would provide $3 million for renovations to Main Street in Stafford and $10,000 for repairs to the Stafford Police Department building, the legislators announced today.

“Stafford is a beautiful old New England community that is on the brink of economic revitalization. It has scenic rivers, old mills, grand churches, and beautiful parks. The funding our bills would provide will make the downtown area more attractive to business and enable the Police Department to make better use of existing space in its building and make some needed repairs,” Representative Bacchiochi said.

“The measures we have introduced are a worthwhile investment in Stafford’s economic future. They will help pay for projects that will improve the overall appearance of the downtown area, encourage small business growth, and increase the commercial tax base,” Representative Bacchiochi said.

“This legislation is about acquiring state aid for the renovation and revitalization of downtown Stafford,” said Senator Guglielmo. “Small towns do not always have the means to initiate a project such as this. That is why we put forth this bill. Oftentimes the downtown area of a community is what identifies that town, and Stafford is no different. I am very hopeful that we can move this legislation forward so these projects can commence.”

If approved, the funding would help pay for several downtown revitalization projects, including streetscaping, road and sidewalk repairs, drainage upgrades and placing overhead utility lines underground. A detailed engineering survey still has to be done to determine where additional parking should be located, the legislators said.

The proposed funding for the police department renovations would be used to make needed repairs to the building and to create a private interview/interrogation room utilizing existing office space.

“Although Stafford is a small town it has many of the problems found in more urban areas,” Representative Bacchiochi said. “The grant we are seeking will enable the police department to make improvements that will make better use of existing space and enhance public safety.”