Sen. Kissel: Windsor Locks Awarded $280,000 for Sidewalks on Main Street

Story as it appeared in the Windsor Locks – East Windsor Patch on January 3, 2012

Windsor Locks Awarded $280,000 in State Funds for Sidewalks on Main Street

Windsor Locks is one of the last round of communities to receive Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) awards announced by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy Tuesday.

Towns across the state were awarded funds to make infrastructure upgrades, strengthen business corridors and local economies, and improve public spaces. The State Bond Commission allocated $20 million for 2012 STEAP grants in September 2011.

“Over the past several weeks I’ve enjoyed visiting the small towns across Connecticut that make our state a great place to live,” Malloy said in a press release. “Local leaders have done a tremendous job advocating for their communities and ensuring that these important projects are getting the attention and support they need—and state government has stepped up as a partner in the effort to improve the quality of life for residents. These projects are part of reinventing Connecticut and making us a stronger, highly competitive, and more vibrant state.”

Windsor Locks was awarded $280,000 to construct sidewalks along Main Street and Elm Street to increase pedestrian safety in a high-traffic area, according to the press release. This would complete a 10-year renovation effort of the downtown housing/business district.

First Selectman Steven N. Wawruck Jr. said Tuesday night the grant is a good investment in the downtown area of Windsor Locks.

“It’s a good quality of life investment,” Wawruck said.

“By making Windsor Locks a more walkable and bikable town, we improve the local quality of life and make the town more appealing for area residents and businesses alike,” State Senator John A. Kissel said in a press release. “We want to be proud of our downtowns, so when Windsor Locks receives an injection of funding like this, we are absolutely thrilled. This is a wise investment which will pay dividends for many years to come, and we thank the administration.”

Surrounding communities, Suffield was awarded $250,000 for road improvements, and Ellington, was awarded $75,000 for a sewer extension project.