The 'Eels' Have It: Vernon Council Backs $5.1 Million Federal Culvert Grant Application

VERNON, CT — As expected, the Vernon Town Council has authorized the town to pursue more than $5.1 million in federal funding for culvert work aimed at improving waterways and infrastructure.

And some local eels are very happy about that.

The council considered an application for $5,119,200 through the National Culvert Removal, Replacement and Restoration Grant Program during its July 21 meeting.

The federal program, administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration, provides funding for projects involving culverts and aquatic organism passage ... like eels.

Council member Maryann Levesque made a motion authorizing Vernon Mayor Daniel Champagne to execute the paperwork necessary to apply for and receive the grant. Council member Terilynn Rogers seconded the motion.

Champagne and Sean Gately spoke about the proposal and answered questions from council members, according to the meeting minutes.

Culverts are structures that carry streams, stormwater, or other water beneath roads and similar infrastructure.

Replacement or restoration projects can address deteriorating infrastructure while improving the ability of fish and other aquatic organisms to move through waterways.

In Vernon's case, eel migration would be aided with new culverts at both Bread and Milk Road and Reservoir Road.

The council's action authorizes Champagne to complete the paperwork required for the $5.119 million federal grant application.

For the minutes of the July 21 Vernon Town Council meeting, click on this link.

From July 17: 'Eels Need A New Subway System In Vernon: Town Officials'