Norm Needleman

State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) this week welcomed an announcement by Governor Lamont that the state Department of Transportation will invest $782,916 in making improvements to sidewalks in Haddam Center.

The grant funding will be released through the Transportation Rural Improvement Program, or TRIP, a state grant program designed to support rural municipalities which are often ineligible for federal transportation programs. This is one of ten investments valued at $9 million released to communities around the state. Towns with 50 percent of their populations living in rural areas were eligible to apply for funds; the DOT will cover 100% of construction costs.

“Haddam Center is a vital corridor for business that connects the community,” said Sen. Needleman. “These sidewalks represent pedestrian traffic to more easily access local restaurants and businesses and provides strong ties that will support the town as a whole. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont, Commissioner Eucalitto and our state’s leadership for their foresight and support of our communities.”

“Small towns across Connecticut support families and play a vital role in growing the agriculture, tourism and manufacturing sectors,” said Gov. Lamont. “We’re providing state grants to help ensure these smaller communities remain safe and connected for future generations.”

“These investments will go a long way toward improving safety and building a stronger transportation network throughout rural Connecticut,” said CTDOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto.