Sen. Maroney, West Haven Delegation Welcomes Funding to the Neighborhood Pedestrian Safety Project

Today, West Haven Mayor Dorinda Borer and the West Haven Delegation consisting of state Senator James Maroney, state Representatives Trenee McGee, Bill Heffernan, and MJ Shannon, are welcoming $2.4 million from the State Bond Commission to help with the Neighborhood Pedestrian Safety Project in West Haven.

“This investment will ensure that students have a safer commute to school each day, whether they walk, ride a bike, or get a ride,” said Sen. Maroney. “These upgrades will improve the immediate area around the schools, and also focus on creating safe, accessible routes throughout the surrounding neighborhoods. It’s a smart step forward for both student safety and community well-being.”

“This project is about safety, connectivity, accessibility and quality of life for our students, our teachers and the neighbors,” said Mayor Borer. “Savin Rock has the largest elementary enrollment which has contributed to significant and adverse vehicle and pedestrian traffic impact in recent years which needs to be addressed as they are experiencing increased incidents. These challenges are very similar to the high traffic impact around the V.A. which earlier in 2025 the city was awarded $1.8 million in State funding to assist with the same type of infrastructure investment as well. Additionally, Washington School was just rebuilt but school construction does not include funding for the sidewalks around the school. We appreciate that most of these issues will be addressed with the State Bonding.”

“I believe any project intended to create a safer environment, especially around our schools, should move forward as quickly as possible,” Rep. Trenee McGee said. “The Neighborhood Pedestrian Safety Project is a win for the students, Washington and Savin Rock Schools, and residents in the areas surrounding both schools. I want to thank the State Bond Commission and Gov. Lamont for approving the funds for the project.”

“We always want to keep our pedestrians and students safe, and this project – with this funding – will help do that,” said Rep. Heffernan. “Thank you to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for helping make this project possible by including funds on the bond agenda.”

“Developing a walkable neighborhood is a great win, especially when it creates safeguards for the young people in our community,” said Rep. Shannon. “Once this project is completed, the areas surrounding Washington and Savin Rock will have the infrastructure necessary to protect individuals traveling by foot. This means local students will be able to safely walk or bike to school. These changes will make the area more accessible for all, which will greatly benefit the community. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for their investment in West Haven.”

The project includes street paving within a one- to two-mile radius of both Washington School and Savin Rock School. It also features ADA improvements and crosswalk upgrades, including eight multiway crosswalks at Savin Rock and six at Washington.. Aesthetic enhancements will be made including the planting of trees and painted crosswalks near drop-off areas.

The project will impact over 700 students attending both schools. Residents living near each school see higher-than-average traffic during the school year and require more frequent maintenance. Neighbors will also benefit from walkability and the associated environmental benefits from reduced GHG/Motor vehicle emissions.

This work is expected to begin in late Fall of 2025 and early Spring of 2026.