Lamont: $500K State Funding For Phase 3 Of Madison Center Project

MADISON, CT — Among the $31.3 million in state grants for 77 small towns, Gov. Ned Lamont announced Monday, half a million is earmarked for phase three of the Madison Center Project streetscape.

The funding is for a variety of infrastructure improvements including road safety reconstruction projects, sewer and drainage upgrades, sidewalk and pedestrian safety enhancements, and other kinds of capital improvement projects.

The grants are provided through the Small Town Economic Assistance Program, a state program managed by the Office of Policy and Management that delivers grants to small towns for economic development, community conservation, and quality-of-life capital projects.

The $500,000 in state funding for Madison is for road improvements and enhancements as part of phase three of the Madison Center Project streetscape. This will be matched by $1,076,417 from the town.

"Making Madison more safe and walkable will have a positive impact on the business district by increasing pedestrian access and economic activity," state Senator Christine Cohen (D-Guilford) said.

“The town’s long-term investment in this project is a testament to the commitment not only to its people and businesses, but also to culture and tourism," Cohen said. "Connectivity and walkability are key components to a dynamic and healthy downtown, and I want to thank Madison’s officials for their continued pursuit of this effort, as well as Governor Lamont for approving this investment in our community and our local businesses."

Towns seeking funding under this round of STEAP grants were required to submit applications to the state by August 15, 2022, and will soon receive official award notification and instructions from OPM. Funding to support these grants was approved at the March 31, 2022, meeting of the State Bond Commission, a group that Lamont leads as chairperson.

“I'm thrilled that, with the support of the Governor, Madison will be able to complete this expansive project that will ensure our downtown fulfills its true potential for our town—and region—with increased vibrancy and critical economic development for the shoreline," said state Representative John-Michael Parker (D-Madison). "Thank you to our town leaders, employees, and state partners for the continued support, and for ensuring that the Madison Center Project will be a success!”

The Madison streetscape project includes utility, streetscape, roadway and pedestrian improvements from Route 1 to Route 79.

“I am excited to learn that Madison has been awarded a STEAP Grant to assist us in the next and final phase of the Madison Center Project," said Madison First Selectwoman Peggy Lyons. "This important, high-profile community improvement initiative has been at the forefront of our downtown development plans for almost 20 years. Furthering the streetscape improvements along our main street will continue to expand economic opportunities within our central business district, improve pedestrian safety and access to public transit, and enhance the charm and aesthetics of our downtown area. Over the years, the town -- in partnership with the state -- has invested almost $3 million to complete several phases of this multi-phase project, and we look forward to using this new grant award toward its completion. I want to thank Senator Cohen and Representative Parker for their support and their persistent efforts in advocating for this project. And thank you to Governor Lamont for your continued commitment to help fund Madison’s future through this and other strategic infrastructure projects like the Academy Community Center and the bulkhead replacement at Garvan Point.”

Lamont said "small towns are part of what makes Connecticut such a great place to live and work."

"By partnering with them on these grants, the state can help get these infrastructure projects completed, so these towns can continue to thrive, remain competitive, attract businesses, and improve the quality of life for our residents," he said.