Today, the Norwalk Delegation consisting of Senate Majority Leader Senator Bob Duff, state Representatives Lucy Dathan, Travis Simms, Kadeem Roberts, and Dominique Johnson, is welcoming a vote by the Community Investment Fund (CIF) that will bring $3.5 Million to Norwalk to support two transformative projects aimed at improving safety, mobility, and economic vitality in key neighborhoods. A $2.5 million investment will fund pedestrian safety and traffic calming upgrades along Lexington Avenue, while an additional $1 million will support the historic restoration and streetscape enhancement of Washington Street in South Norwalk’s historic district.
“These investments through the CIF are a big win for Norwalk,” said Sen. Duff. “The improvements to Lexington Avenue will make the street safer and more accessible for everyone who walks, bikes, or drives through the neighborhood. At the same time, the restoration and revitalization of Washington Street will help preserve the historic charm of South Norwalk while boosting local businesses and attracting more visitors.”
“This year, we set a record by installing 10.9 miles of sidewalks throughout Norwalk, and we have plans to install more,” said Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling. “We are thrilled to be awarded State funding through the Community Investment Fund grant to improve sidewalks and pedestrian mobility on Lexington Avenue between Ely Avenue and Austin Street. The completed project will include ADA accessible sidewalks and a slight widening of the road to enhance vehicular safety. I want to thank Governor Lamont, Senator Duff, and members of our State Delegation for supporting this funding to ensure we continue to strengthen safety and mobility for all road users, particularly in this historic district of Norwalk, while prioritizing pedestrian mobility.”
“I am proud to join Senator Duff and my colleagues in securing these critical investments for Norwalk,” said Rep. Simms. “The $2.5 million for the Lexington Avenue mobility upgrades and the $1 million for the Washington Street Streetscape represent our commitment to strengthening infrastructure, supporting economic development, and improving quality of life for all residents. This is another example of how working together at the state level delivers real results for our community.”
“I am pleased our delegation continues to deliver critical resources to our district,” said Rep. Dathan. “We are confident these CIF projects will advance through the approval process and reach the final phase. These grants will improve safety and accessibility, making it easier for people of all ages and abilities to walk and bike in our community.”
“These projects will benefit Norwalk in the short and long term,” said Rep. Roberts. “Making pedestrian safety improvements on Lexington Avenue is a big step in terms of equity – once completed, traveling on that street will not be a risky endeavor for those who are not in a car. The streetscape project will modernize parts of Washington Street, which will drive more traffic to the wonderful restaurants and shops in the area. Thank you to the CIF board for their consideration.”
“Infrastructure improvements can transform a good city into an even greater one,” said Rep. Johnson. “Once the Lexington Avenue project is complete, the street will be much safer for all travelers, from those who choose to walk, to cyclists, and individuals behind a wheel. The Streetscape project on Washington Street will contribute to a more welcoming experience for diners, shoppers, business owners, and residents along one of Norwalk’s most vibrant downtown corridors. Thank you to the CIF board, Speaker Ritter, Senate President Looney, and Governor Lamont for their continued investment in Norwalk.
“For the longest time, the narrowness of Lexington Ave has been a constraint for our most productive bus routes in South Norwalk,” said CEO of the Norwalk Transit District Matt Pentz. “Widening of Lexington Ave will enable us to operate two-way service which will improve quality and efficiency by allowing for simpler, safe, bi-directional bus service in one of our most transit dependent areas. When two-way service becomes a reality, riders boarding south of SoNo Station will have a much shorter trip to the station by bus. NTD appreciates the effort by TMP and support from Senator Duff in addressing this issue and looks forward to the positive solutions that the new funding will create.”
“Our streets shouldn’t just accommodate drivers but everyone who needs it for transportation,” said Director of Transportation, Mobility, and Parking Jim Travers. “This investment in Lexington Avenue reflects our commitment to creating safer, more accessible streets for pedestrians, cyclists, and all members of the community. The project not only includes street scape and sidewalk infrastructure but provides a “right sized” roadway that will allow for better public transportation on this heavily used roadway. These improvements will not only enhance safety but also support a more connected and vibrant neighborhood.”
The CIF is allocating $2.5 million to support pedestrian safety and traffic calming improvements along Lexington Avenue in Norwalk. The project will span from Ely Avenue to Knapp Street and aims to enhance mobility and safety for all road users, particularly pedestrians. This funding represents a significant step toward improving local transportation and quality of life in the area.
The CIF is also allocating $1 million to help with historic restoration and streetscape upgrade along Washington Street in South Norwalk’s historic district. This project includes restoring at least 10 building façades by June 2027, installing five outdoor dining parklets by May 2026 (converting 15 of 28 on-street parking spaces), and enhancing the area with string lighting, murals, planters, and other placemaking features.
The CIF fosters economic development in historically underserved communities across the state.
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