Stratford Receives ‘Complete Streets’ State Grant

STRATFORD, CT — Stratford has been awarded a “Complete Streets” $450,000 grant from the state to complete the technical design for improvements along a portion of Main Street and Barnum Avenue, south of East Broadway.

The project is one of several that have been identified as a high priority in Stratford’s 2017 Complete Streets Plan, intended to enhance access and safety for bicyclists and pedestrians. Upon the completion of the technical design, the town will be positioned to begin implementing necessary improvements.

Approximately $250,000 of the total grant will be set aside to cover costs associated with any environmental contamination discovered within the project boundary, according to a press release.

“I am pleased to see Stratford receive this grant in the interest of making critical improvements along portions of Main Street and Barnum Avenue in the interest of improving safety and access for pedestrians and bicyclists, as well as motorists,” Mayor Laura Hoydick said. “This is an important planning initiative that will improve investment in Stratford Center, and the enjoyment and access of the area to everyone.”

Read more from the press release below:

“I first want to applaud Mayor Hoydick and the work that was done to position Stratford to win this competitive Complete Streets Grant,” said Sen. Kevin Kelly (R-21). “This project will help to continue to put our town of Stratford on the map and make it a place where pedestrians and bicyclists want to frequent. I look forward to the continuation of improvements to our town and am hopeful that under the mayor’s local leadership this will be possible.”

“I was delighted to learn that Stratford has just received a ‘Complete Streets’ Grant to enhance the beauty and safety of our Main Street and Barnum Ave corridor,” said Rep. McGorty (R-122). “For several years this area has been in the forefront of Stratford’s leadership for enhancing Stratford’s charm and beauty. With the continuing development of what I call the ‘Hub’ of Stratford, this grant is very welcoming. Much progress has gone into enhancing the beautification and added safety for pedestrians and bicyclists; it’s a welcoming as is the many new restaurants and shops in this area for all to enjoy.”

“These funds will help Stratford adapt to new transportation models of bicycling and pedestrian options through the heart of our community,” said Rep. Joe Gresko (D-121). “Focusing on making our downtown more attractive will serve Stratford in the long term.”

“As OPM has awarded Stratford with the Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) and Responsible Growth Grant, we are one step closer to providing safer public spaces and improving accessibility for people of all ages and abilities,” said Jay Habansky, Planning and Zoning Administrator for the Town of Stratford.

“These grants are highly competitive and we are pleased to be one of the few communities in CT to have been selected based on the quality of our projects and impacts they will have here in Stratford.”

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