Julie Kushner

Senator Kushner, Representative Gucker Applaud as Governor Lamont, State Bond Commission Place Marjorie Trail, Squantz Engine Company on December Agenda

Today, State Senator Julie Kushner (D-Danbury) and State Representative Kenneth Gucker (D-Danbury) applauded the State Bond Commission and Governor Ned Lamont for their placement of significant funding to support the installation of a new elevator and Americans with Disabilities Act improvements to the Squantz Engine Company, as well as to support the construction of a multi-use trail at the Margerie Reservoir, on the Commission’s December agenda. These releases will play an important role in supporting the local communities, providing new access and resources for Danbury and New Fairfield. The Bond Commission’s agenda for its Dec. 21 meeting lists $1.8 million of funding to the Town of New Fairfield for the construction of a multi-use trail at the Margerie Reservoir, with another $210,170 dedicated to the town for supporting the Squantz Engine Company.

“I am happy to see the trail get the funding it so desperately needs for I have been working on this project for the past many years,” said Rep. Gucker. “This valuable resource will provide much needed safe passive recreation as well as be a economic driver for not only Danbury, but the town of New Fairfield. I would also like to express my support for the much needed funds to help squantz fire house becoming ADA compliant. As a past volunteer firefighter myself for New Fairfield, I understand the importance of this project to the community. I especially want to thank the speaker of the house and leadership, as well as the governor for their support.”

“During the pandemic, we have experienced a significant increase in the number of people walking, running and riding bikes. I want to see this trend continue, and there’s no question that the Marjorie Trail will provide a natural link for the two communities of New Fairfield and Danbury,” said Sen. Kushner. “I am also thrilled that we are responding to the needs of some our most valued volunteers – the firefighters of the Squantz Engine Company who risk their lives to save ours. The installation of an elevator will allow the firehouse to, once again, provide a beautiful space, ADA compliant, where the community can gather. I’m so proud that our communities will receive these significant investments by the state, supporting important and meaningful projects that will benefit life for thousands. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for their support.”

“I am glad that the state can partner with Danbury and New Fairfield on the release of funding to support these two projects,” said Governor Ned Lamont. “The Margerie Reservoir is among the most gorgeous natural resources in Connecticut, and this multi-use trail will enhance the recreational opportunities for everyone in the area. Additionally, the ADA upgrades at the Squantz Engine Company will help ensure that all residents have access to community events that are held at this facility.”

The trail funding will support a development along the 270-acre Margerie Reservoir in New Fairfield, according to the Danbury News-Times, with hopes that it would provide Danbury and New Fairfield residents with new recreational resources. The Engine Company’s funds would support its addition of an elevator; currently, while the Engine Company’s second floor hosts a large hall that could be used for community events, the hall is only accessible by a staircase. The elevator would allow for the building to be ADA-compliant.