Branford Receives State Funds to Help Jumpstart Development Near Train Station

Branford, CT - This week, State Rep. Lonnie Reed, State Rep. Sean Scanlon and State Sen. Ted Kennedy, Jr. announced that Branford will receive $125,000 of state funding to develop a comprehensive master plan for the area surrounding the soon to be re-opened Branford Train Station, officials announced in a release.

This funding, which the delegation fought for upon request from First Selectman Jamie Cosgrove, will allow the town to pursue what is known as transit oriented development (TOD) - developing commercial and residential space close to public transportation - in what is a fast-growing part of Branford.

"Properties around our expanded train station and along the adjacent Branford River are attracting attention from builders promoting all kinds of projects," said Rep. Reed in a statement. "It is crucial that this area be developed in smart, responsible ways. We cannot do that without a comprehensive plan that also protects nearby homeowners and businesses, the Community Center, Sliney school, playgrounds, playing fields and our scenic environmental assets. We are grateful to the Governor and OPM for approving this much needed Grant request."

"Many people, and especially people in my generation, want to live near public transportation or go to places using public transportation," said Rep. Scanlon in a statement. "This funding will allow the town to develop a plan for the area around our train station and my hope is that, within a few years, we will see that part of town grow to a place where you see new housing, businesses, and restaurants and it will become a place people want to live but also a place more people from out of town want to come and visit."

"Re-opening the Branford Train Station is going to be a significant boost for the Branford community and our local economy. It is critical that we work together to develop this area so as to ensure the best possible impact," said Sen. Kennedy. "I fought to secure this grant so that we can ensure that Branford is able to capitalize on the train station's opening. We hope to begin a targeted development that will bring new residential and commercial developments within walking distance of the train station which will generate new economic activity, while still maintaining the character that makes Branford such a great community to live and work in. Encouraging transit-oriented development was a key recommendation made by businesses and stakeholders at the 12th District Economic Planning Summit, which I held earlier this year. I will continue working to promote projects just like this one throughout the region."

"This is an ideal time for Branford to be awarded the TOD Planning Grant" said Branford First Selectman Jamie Cosgrove. "There is a significant amount of public and private interest in the area and this grant will ensure a development strategy that enhances the quality of life and improves economic vitality."