Norwalk Approved For Transit-Oriented Development Funding

NORWALK, CT — Norwalk 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 in a release. "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 in a release. "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.

Norwalk is slated to receive $125,000 for analysis and development of a Transit-Oriented Development Plan for the area surrounding the East Avenue rail station. The planning study will analyze existing conditions, opportunities and constraints in order to develop a clear framework and vision for the future of the area, and establish guidelines for design and development.

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

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