HARTFORD – The State Bond Commission allocated $600,000 to improve sidewalks for students who walk to school in the Chestnut Hill area.
The project was one of several items to receive funding during a special meeting of the State Bond Commission on Dec. 20. The grant will help the city enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility by upgrading sidewalks and related infrastructure in the Chestnut Hill area.
Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff and other Norwalk officials welcomed the release of the funds, which come from the sale of general obligation bonds for the state Department of Transportation.
“It’s hard to think of a better investment than funding infrastructure that ensures our students can safely walk to and from school,” Duff said. “No family should have to worry about their kids navigating unsafe conditions or facing unnecessary risks on their way to class. I’m grateful to Governor (Ned) Lamont and the State Bond Commission for prioritizing the safety of Norwalk’s students and pedestrians with this much-needed funding.”
Mayor Harry Rilling sees the investment in Norwalk’s infrastructure as a way to make the area near the school safe for students and other pedestrians.
“We are committed to increasing walkability and connectivity across the city, especially near our schools, neighborhoods and downtown areas, to help expand safe, accessible transportation options for everyone,” Rilling said. “Sidewalks are a crucial component of increasing safety for pedestrians while also reducing our overall carbon footprint through convenient and comfortable alternatives to driving cars.”
Jim Travers, director of transportation, mobility and parking for the city, especially thanks Duff for working to secure the funding.
“Sidewalks play a pivotal role in creating a more walkable environment, encouraging physical activity, ensuring pedestrian safety, and creating a sense of community,” Travers said. “This project, made possible by funding secured by Senator Duff, comes on the heels of our recently adopted ‘Complete Streets’ legislation aimed at creating safer, more accessible streets for everyone.”
The State Bond Commission also approved funding this year for several Norwalk community projects including:
- $2.5 million to Norwalk to offset the cost of constructing a roundabout to provide safer access to the new South Norwalk Elementary School.
- $3.5 million for the Carver Community Center to support the renovation and expansion of the center. (This project will make enhancements to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act as well as make necessary security upgrades.)
- $241,000 for equipment and improvements to the Notre Dame Health and Rehabilitation Center.
- $300,000 in new funding for expansion and renovations to the Music Theatre of Connecticut.
- $268,922 for upgrades and improvements at Side by Side Charter School.
- More than $3.4 million for the Norwalk Housing Authority for the creation of housing units.
- $3 million for the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency for streetscape improvements in South Norwalk.
