Berlin Approved For Transit-Oriented Development Funding

BERLIN, CT — Berlin is one of 11 Connecticut towns and cities that will share $15 million in funding under a competitive grant program that supports transit-oriented development and responsible growth in the state and is targeted at boosting economic activity and creating jobs.

Gov. Dannel Malloy announced Wednesday morning the grants will come under the state’s Responsible Growth and Transit-Oriented Development Grant Program, which is administered by the Office of Policy and Management (OPM) and relies on a combination of funding from the Responsible Growth Incentive Fund and the Transit-Oriented Development and Pre-development Fund.

“Transportation isn’t just about cars, trains and buses – it’s about building vibrant communities and continuing to make Connecticut a more attractive place to live, visit, and do business,” Malloy said. “Today’s grant awards will build upon the smart, targeted investments we have made in recent years, which have already lead to significant growth in transit-oriented development across the state.”

“I am pleased to move forward with these important and worthwhile investments,” OPM Secretary Ben Barnes said. “Until recent years, Connecticut ignored forward-looking projects to foster growth in our local economies. These grants will strengthen our cities and the state and – more importantly – will do so responsibly.”

Earlier this year, OPM released a Request for Applications for the grant program, and the State Bond Commission approved a total of $15 million to be used – comprised of $5 million from the Responsible Growth Incentive Fund and $10 million from the Transit-Oriented Development and Pre-development Fund. Following that, OPM – with input from other state agencies – reviewed, rated, and ranked each of the proposals.

Berlin is slated to receive $536,884 to acquire property at 861 Farmington Avenue and the rail spur property adjacent to the Berlin Steel Site. These acquisitions are intended to assist in environmental cleanup efforts underway by the town, and to expand redevelopment opportunities in the vicinity of the train station.

Other communities approved for funding are Clinton, East Windsor, Madison, New Britain, Norwalk, Stratford, Wallingford, Winchester, Windsor Locks and the Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments.

Photo credit: Shutterstock