Shelton Awarded Two Grants for Canal Street Revitalization

Senator Kelly, Reps. Perillo & McGorty Applaud State Investments

SHELTON, CT – The City of Shelton has been approved to receive two grants through the latest round of Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) funding. The two grants totaling $240,000 pertain to the extension of the Housatonic Riverwalk on Canal Street and the creation of the Shelton Canal Lock Park. Both of these activities will enhance the city’s ongoing efforts to revitalize Canal Street located in downtown Shelton.

“This is great news for Shelton,” said Senate Republican Leader Kevin Kelly (R-21). “I thank the state for recognizing the importance of supporting Shelton’s investments to support economic growth and quality of life for all our families by increasing access and recreation along the Housatonic River. These projects will support historic preservation of our community, environmental restoration, and the creation of open space. Thank you to all those who are working hard to advocate for Shelton and our families, including the Mayor and local officials.”

“These grants are one more step toward the redevelopment of our downtown and I congratulate the Mayor’s office for this success,” said Representative Jason Perillo. “There is more work to be done and I’ll be working with Representative McGorty and Senator Kevin Kelly in the months and years ahead to make things happen for downtown businesses and residents.”

“I am grateful that the city of Shelton will be able to bolster its development and revitalization with the help of these grants. I want to thank all of the Shelton community members and leaders that played a role in securing this funding,” Representative Ben McGorty said. “These projects will enhance the experience in our great city for families, residents, and visitors alike. We are excited to see this investment in our community take shape.”

The $120,000 in state funding is approved for the installation of a walking path along the Housatonic River will be matched by $25,000 from the town. The $120,000 in state funding is approved for the restoration of the Shelton Canal will be matched by $30,000 from the town and will be applied toward creation of the Shelton Canal Lock Park including enabling the City to hire an engineering firm to complete the investigations necessary to establish a new public open space at the northern end of Canal Street.

The STEAP grants are awarded through a state program managed by the Office of Policy and Management (OPM) that delivers grants to small towns for economic development, community conservation, and quality-of-life capital projects.