Stamford Receives $563K For Pacific Street Pedestrian Safety Project

STAMFORD, CT — This week, Gov. Ned Lamont announced that he is approving the release of $6.8 million in state grants to fund seven projects in six municipalities across Connecticut under a competitive grant program that supports transit-oriented development and is targeted at boosting economic activity and creating jobs.

As a result, Stamford will receive $563,212 for the Pacific Street Village Pedestrian Safety and Access Project. The project will create a holistic complete street by adding a new raised crosswalk and intersection, as well as several bump outs to slow traffic, increase pedestrian safety, and expand sidewalk space; new street trees and bioswales for stormwater management; and pedestrian-level lighting to improve safety at night.

Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons told Patch she's "thrilled" to receive the funding.

"This funding will go toward supporting complete street improvements to this important corridor, including a new raised crosswalk and measures to help slow traffic and increase pedestrian safety," she said. "I want to thank our Transportation, Traffic, & Parking Department for their work in securing this funding and I look forward to working with them to ensure the implementation of this project."

The grants are part of the state’s Transit-Oriented Development Grant Program, which is administered by the Office of Policy and Management (OPM).

The program provides grants for shovel-ready capital projects located within one-half mile of existing public transportation facilities and promotes the development of infrastructure with the goal of creating walkable, mixed-use spaces that support vibrant, sustainable and equitable communities.

"Investments in transportation infrastructure are investments in the future of our communities, our residents, and our businesses," Lamont said in a news release. "Transit-oriented development is more than asphalt and train tracks, it is a comprehensive approach that drives businesses and residents to call our state home. These seven grants for communities across Connecticut will spur further growth, creating the type of state that we all want for our future."

Earlier this year, OPM released a request for applications for the grant program, and then reviewed, rated and ranked each of the proposals with the input of other state agencies, a news release from Lamont's office said.

Awardees will soon receive official award notification and instructions from OPM. Funding to support these grants was approved at the July 20, 2022, meeting of the State Bond Commission.