Vernon Gets $2 Million Grant For Housing Projects

VERNON, CT — The town of Vernon, in partnership with the Vernon Housing Authority, has obtained a $2 million grant through the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant that will help pay for rehabilitation and renovation work at the Grove Court and Grove Court Extension housing developments on Grove Street.

The Vernon Town Council recently and unanimously accepted the grant via a resolution. Vernon Project and Grant Coordinator Nichole Greco worked closely with Vernon Housing Authority Executive Director Betsy Soto to prepare the grant application.

"The Vernon Housing Authority plays a vital role in providing seniors and other qualified residents of our community with safe and affordable housing," Vernon Mayor Daniel Champagne said. "That’s why I directed staff in my office to work with housing authority leadership to prepare and submit this grant request. We are grateful to the state and federal governments for awarding these funds to Vernon."

The Connecticut Department of Housing recently notified town officials about the grant award. The federal Department of Housing and Urban Development ultimately funds the grant.

Grove Court is a state-funded seven-building complex with 54 affordable housing units. It is one of six complexes and several homes that the Vernon Housing Authority manages.

The work planned for Grove Court is estimated to cost several million dollars and will include building and fire code updates, handicapped accessibility upgrades to apartments and common areas, Energy Star appliances, new bathrooms, new roofs, windows, siding and site improvements that will enhance accessibility.

"This work is needed and will enhance everyday life for residents at Grove Court," Soto said. "The partnership with the town was essential in obtaining this grant, and the work will ensure our residents have safe, comfortable housing for decades to come."

Grove Court was built in 1968 and Grove Court Extension was built in 1977.

"These building improvements and code updates are the right thing to do and, when complete, will benefit every resident of Grove Court," Town Administrator and Emergency and Risk Management Director Michael Purcaro said. "We've been working with the Vernon Housing Authority for more than a year to secure this funding, and we will continue to seek additional grant funding to support this vital community project."