Project Designed To Fill Sidewalk Gaps In Vernon Announced

VERNON, CT — An intensive project to fill in several sidewalk gaps in Vernon was announced Wednesday evening.

The $1.35 million project is designed to "enhance the sidewalk network in Vernon by providing connections between existing sections of sidewalk with the goal of increasing pedestrian safety and convenience," Vernon Town Administrator Michael Purcaro said.

The town is anticipating a Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program grant from the Connecticut Department of Transportation that will fund construction. The grant would be administered by the Capital Region Council of Governments.

The town of Vernon has allocated funding from the fiscal year 2024 capital budget to fund construction administration and inspection by a contractor. The plans will be developed by town engineering staff.

"Enhancing pedestrian safety by expanding sidewalks has been an ongoing effort over the past several years," Vernon Mayor Dan Champagne said. "This project will add significantly to our sidewalk network and make traveling along busy roads safer and more convenient for our residents."

Vernon Town Engineer David Smith said work is planned for five locations in Vernon and will consist of the installation of about 7,800 feet of sidewalk.

The work areas are:

• South Street: Roughly from Hartford Turnpike to Henry Park
• Hartford Turnpike near Vernon Center Middle School: A continuation from the existing pathway from the Baptist church property to the VCMS parking lot that runs along the front of VCMS and then down Dart Road to meet the existing sidewalk in front of Strong Farm
• Talcottville Road: A section near Naek Road
• Two segments on Dobson Road: Along the Firestone tire store and on the south side of I-84 from the existing bridge walk crossing Campbell Avenue and crossing Dobson Road near the trailhead to the Talcottville Ravine Trail
• Lake Street: From Lake Street School to Montauk Drive

A public information meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 25 in the Council Chambers on the third floor of Town Hall. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Bid documents for the project, which include progress drawings, are posted on the town website, www.vernon- ct.gov. Click on the “Bid Opportunities” button and look for Contract No. 2125.

Project construction bids have not yet been issued, but the town is anticipating awarding a contract in spring 2024 with anticipated completion in fall 2024.

The information meeting will be video recorded and the video will be posted to the town website.