Malloy Officially Announces South Windsor to Receive $500,000 Grant

Governor Dannel Dannel P. Malloy officially announced on Wednesday that South Windsor South Windsor was awarded $500,000 in Small Town Economic Assistance Program funds to build an Emergency Operations Center that will also be used to conduct emergency preparedness training.

The story was first reported in South Windsor Patch here.

The following is derived from the press release from Malloy's office that was released on Nov. 14:

Governor Dannel P. Malloy announced Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) emergency management awards today for the towns of Bethany, Greenwich, and South Windsor. Towns are awarded funds to undertake projects that upgrade infrastructure and the town’s ability to respond to emergencies.

“The three weather related emergencies we’ve experienced over the last fifteen months have made the need for a coordinated response at the state and municipal levels all the more important,” said Governor Malloy. “The investments we’re announcing today will help these towns enhance their emergency response capabilities, while at same time allow them to move some really great projects forward.”

During the statewide July exercises, South Windsor town officials questioned the current EOC’s soundness during storms rated at category 3 or higher. The EOC will also be used as a small business incubator for town businesses considering expansion.

"This grant is obviously important in terms of emergency operations, but it's also important for the long-term economic health of South Windsor and the region,” said state Sen. Gary D. LeBeau (D-East Hartford). “Local start-up companies will be able to use the center and its technologies to facilitate their growth and success."

“Encouraging economic growth through small business assistance and emergency preparedness are two of the highest priorities and responsibilities of state government, and this project will move us forward on both fronts,” said state Rep. Tim Larson (D-East Hartford, South Windsor, Manchester). “This is a sound investment by the state on behalf of taxpayers and a welcome addition to our community.”

"The old post office has been sitting idle for a long time and this STEAP grant will help return it to active use," said state Rep. Bill Aman (R-South Windsor). "With the help of this grant South Windsor will get an emergency operations and technology center and local businesses will benefit from access to a high tech communication center."

In October 2012, The State Bond Commission allocated $10 million for 2013 STEAP grants.