Bond Commission Mulling Funds For Manchester's Laurel Marsh Trail

MANCHESTER — The agenda for a special meeting of the State Bond Commission scheduled for Thursday includes $500,000 for improvements to the Laurel Marsh trail system in Manchester.

State Rep. Geoff Luxenberg (D-Manchester) applauded the agenda.

"Fighting to get this funding on the agenda is important to me and the rest of the Manchester delegation because it is another significant investment in our town," Luxenberg said. "I am truly appreciative of the project's inclusion for approval."

If approved, the funds will spur improvements for parking, maintenance of the existing bridges, crosswalk installation — including flashing beacons — and "informational signage," he said.

In December, the bond commission approved $3 million in improvements to Center Springs Park that will fund improvements to park entrances, more walking paths and other amenities. Features like a new amphitheater, covered picnic areas, an observation deck, a repurposed baseball field, new fitness equipment and a better spot for the park's playground have also been discussed.

"The COVID-19 pandemic reinforced the importance of outdoor spaces, and Center Springs Park has unrealized potential as a great destination in the heart of Manchester," Luxenberg said. "By including funds to improve Laurel Marsh Trail on the agenda, Manchester residents might be better able to tap into that park's potential, too."