$2.5M State Grant Announced For Downtown Infrastructure Upgrades In West Haven

WEST HAVEN, CT — (From City of West Haven): The state Community Investment Fund 2030 Board on Tuesday, Sept. 22, approved the city’s $2.5 million grant request for downtown public infrastructure upgrades, Mayor Dorinda Borer announced.

The board’s vote clears the way for the state Bond Commission to consider the next step of final approval for the funding.

Borer, who initiated the grant application, said the city will use the funding for comprehensive streetscape improvements. The project is designed to increase foot traffic, enhance pedestrian accessibility and attract new commercial businesses to the center of West Haven, she said.

“This funding is a monumental step forward for our downtown business district,” Borer said. “By investing in our public spaces and supporting our merchants, we are building a vibrant, walkable center that will attract new visitors, residents and private investment.

“I want to thank the hardworking members of our state delegation for their continued support of our business community.”

To apply for the state funding, the city was required to hire a professional consultant to gather public input and perform a market study. After a year of study and strategy, a Municipal Development Plan was created that Borer submitted as the application.

The downtown neighborhood economic development project proposes renovations at two major public spaces to anchor a larger effort to revitalize the central business district.

Informed by the MDP, the project includes public space improvements to the historic West Haven Green and the 9 Curtiss Place plaza and alleyway off Campbell Avenue.

The planned improvements will focus on creating public areas for entertainment and events while driving new commercial investment into the city.

The funding will also establish a microgrant program for small businesses in West Haven’s Village Improvement District. The grants represent a significant investment by the city in its business community, offering financial support for leaseholder improvements, vacant storefront initiatives and exterior facade upgrades.

As part of the state process, the rollout of the plan will take about two years to complete.