Senator Hochadel Welcomes $722,800 to Protect 18.5 Acres of Open Space in Cheshire
Senator Jan Hochadel (D-Meriden) today welcomed a $722,800 state grant to permanently protect 18.5 acres of open space in Cheshire, preserving working farmland and opening new public recreational access along the Quinnipiac River.
The grant will support the Cheshire Land Trust’s acquisition of a property on East Johnson Avenue along the eastern bank of the Quinnipiac River. The land sits within an Aquifer Protection Area and contains prime and important farmland soils. The existing agricultural use will continue. Once protected, the property will open public access for hiking, fishing, and kayaking, with ADA-accessible features to welcome visitors of all backgrounds and ability levels. The project has the support of the Town of Cheshire, the Regional Water Authority, and the Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments.
“This grant keeps working farmland along the Quinnipiac River in agricultural production while opening the riverfront to public hiking, fishing, and kayaking,” Senator Hochadel said. “A new trail, fishing spots, and a boat and kayak launch will give Cheshire residents access to the river, with ADA-accessible features to make sure everyone can enjoy it. This is the kind of project that makes a lasting difference for a community, and I am grateful the state is making it possible.”
“Open space provides benefits to residents across Connecticut and makes our state a great place to live,” Governor Lamont said. “These community assets provide free recreational opportunities and connect our residents to all the health benefits that come from spending time outdoors.”
The grant was awarded through the Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Grant Program, administered by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. The award is part of a broader $9.4 million announcement today covering 14 properties across 15 communities statewide.