SENATOR MAHER WELCOMES $52,550 IN FUNDING SUPPORTING LOCAL TRAILS AND OUTDOOR RECREATION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 1, 2026

State Senator Ceci Maher (D-Wilton) welcomed the recent announcement that the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection will release $52,550 in grant funding supporting local projects designed to plan, build, expand and improve local trails, with the intent of bolstering recreational opportunities, connecting communities and supporting public health.

The grant will support the Aspetuck Land Trust’s development of a regional trail map and public access initiative.

The grant is part of a $10.5 million, 50-project release of funding through the Connecticut Recreational Trails Grant Program. That program is also supporting Connecticut’s outdoor recreation economy, which provides $6 billion each year to the state’s economy, supporting more than 50,000 jobs and generating more than $2.5 billion each year in wages and salaries.

“Our local trails provide resources that help people get outdoors, enjoy our state’s natural beauty and fresh air and get some healthy exercise,” said Sen. Maher. “I’m excited to see the Aspetuck Land Trust’s work as a new trail map and increased public access plays an important role in supporting our communities. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont for his support of our region.”

“Connecticut’s extensive trail network is one of our state’s greatest outdoor assets,” Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont said. “These investments will improve access to the outdoors, strengthen local economies, attract visitors, encourage healthy lifestyles, and help connect people to the communities where they live and work.”