SEN. OSTEN ANNOUNCES NEARLY $500,000 IN TRAIL GRANTS FOR 19TH STATE SENATE DISTRICT
State Senator Cathy Osten (D-Sprague) announced today that Governor Ned Lamont and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) have awarded approximately $10.5 million in grants supporting 50 projects that will plan, build, expand, restore, and improve multi-use trails across Connecticut – including $470,000 for trails in Hebron, Marlborough and Montville.
These state investments will enhance outdoor recreation opportunities, strengthen connections between communities, improve public health, and support Connecticut’s growing outdoor recreation economy.
“All of these trials combine family-friendly walks with beautiful views and a little bit of history,” Sen. Osten said. “I’m proud that Connecticut has the process and the funding mechanisms in place to maintain our outdoor spaces for the public to enjoy.”
Local projects funded include:
- Hebron’s Bernstein Trail, from Old Colchester Road to Air Line State Park Trail, will receive $193,120 for planning, design, and construction
- Marlborough’s Blackledge River Greenway Trail Phase 3 will receive $196,950 for construction.
- Montville’s Oxoboxo Heritage Multi-Use Path & Thames River Blueway will receive $80,000 for planning and design.
The grants are being released through the Connecticut Recreational Trails Grant Program following a competitive review process conducted by DEEP in partnership with the Connecticut Greenways Council. The funding for the program was previously allocated by the State Bond Commission.