NVCOG’s Successful 2023 RBP Annual Meeting On Brownfield Transformation

Aerial image over Ansonia’s Maple Street Bridge with downtown Main Street in the background.

The Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments hosted the 2023 annual meeting of the Regional Brownfields Partnership on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, at the newly revitalized Senior Center in Ansonia, located at 65 Main Street. The meeting brought together Regional Brownfields Partnership (RBP) members, public and private stakeholders, and brownfield enthusiasts. This year’s choice of venue, the recently rejuvenated Senior Center, served as a symbolic testament to the potential of brownfield redevelopment. 

The core focus was on the transformative impact of brownfields, championed by visionary Chief Elected Officials (CEOs), who embrace brownfield redevelopment. The commitment is clear – to reclaim vacant or abandoned brownfield sites, transforming them into tax-generating parcels that positively impact member communities.  

2023 Financial Overview

Michael Szpryngel, NVCOG Finance Director, provided key insights into the Regional Brownfields Program’s financial reports.  

Noteworthy financial points included: 

  • A substantial $4.1 million in active NVCOG DECD grants and $810k in active CTBLB DECD grants have significantly contributed to the program’s initiatives. 
  • 100% of NVCOG and CTBLB DECD applications have been fully funded. 
  • Over the past two years, the RBP municipalities have been awarded a total of $18 million in active DECD grants.  

Connecticut Brownfield Land Bank (CTBLB) Update

Rick Dunne, CTBLB President, provided a comprehensive update on the completed and pending projects for the 2023 calendar year across various RBP municipalities: Ansonia, Bristol, Derby, East Hampton, Seymour, Southington, and Waterbury. The Connecticut Brownfield Land Bank, Inc. (Land Bank) is a fee-based, non-profit corporation offering brownfields support to Connecticut municipalities. To learn more about CTBLB visit the website at https://ctblb.org/. 

Program Updates & Project Activities

Steven Perry, NVCOG Environmental Planner mentioned significant events and milestones such as the O’Sullivan Island Pier Grand Opening in Derby in July 2023 and the 313 Mill Street, Waterbury George Tirado Sr. Park opening ceremony in September 2023. A notable project involves the progress in remedial activities at 698 South Main Street, Waterbury (Amanet).

To learn more about active and completed Brownfields projects visit the Brownfields Projects – NVCOG CT – Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments.  

Seated at the Ansonia Senior Center, all participants are fully engaged and actively listening to the presentation.

Engaging Discussions

Attendees participated in enriching discussions led by distinguished guest speakers.  

The team from Tighe & Bond, James Olsen, Nicholas Granata, and Harley Langford, delved into Brownfield Due Diligence Requirements and illuminated the crucial roles of Licensed Environmental Professionals. 

Randi Mendes, PhD and Katie Malgioglio, MSW, from UConn Technical Assistance for Brownfields Program (TAB) provided insights into their services and highlighted their crucial role in community engagement support. 

Mayor Carbone of Torrington and Karmen Cheung of Pennrose discussed the success story of the 100 Franklin Street Riverfront Redevelopment. 

Special Guests Recognized

The event also acknowledged the presence of esteemed guests: 

  • Katy Deng, Project Officer, EPA
  • Kayin Bankole, Project Officer, EPA
  • Meena Mortazavi, Environmental Analyst, DEEP
  • Amanda Limacher, Brownfield Coordinator, DEEP
  • Selena Thornhill-Moody, DEEP
  • Kelsey Shields, DEEP
  • Jennine Lupo, District Director, Office of Congresswoman Jahana Hayes 
  • David Morgan, President, TEAM Inc.

A special note of gratitude to Mayor Cassetti and the City of Ansonia for hosting this significant event.

The NVCOG’s 2023 Annual Meeting was not just a gathering; it was a collaborative exploration of possibilities, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to shape the future of brownfield redevelopment. Stay tuned for more updates on the RBP’s program updates and project activities. 

Presentation Materials

2023 Presentation Slides 

2023 Meeting Minutes

Watch the Video Recap

Stay Connected

The Regional Brownfields Partnership (RBP) is an NVCOG-hosted committee that is collaborating to address the collective redevelopment challenges that brownfields present in the region. 

Subscribe to the RBP Newsletter to receive updates from our Brownfields Team, Ricardo Rodriguez and Steven Perry, on some of the many active brownfield projects and funding opportunities in the RBP region. 

Storymap Details Fish Passage Issues at Kinneytown Dam

Dive into the updated Kinneytown Dam story map and uncover the efforts to restore fish passage in the Naugatuck River. 

Thanks to our partners Save the Sound and the Naugatuck River Revival Group. Supported by funding from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP), NVCOG is working to remove Kinneytown Dam to restore fish passage, reduce up and down-stream flood risk, improve water quality, restore natural sediment flows, and restore access to the Naugatuck River for residents and visitors.

Check out the updated Interactive Story Map to learn about the issue.

Updated Kinneytown Dam Story Map (December 2023)

PRESS RELEASE: Trash Reduction Pilot “Green Storytime” Scheduled for Thursday, December 28th in Middlebury

CONTACT:
Tom Dougherty
Environmental Planner
Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments
(203) 725-3096
tdougherty@nvcogct.gov

Trash Reduction Pilot “Green Storytime”  Scheduled for Thursday, December 28th in Middlebury 

(Middlebury, CT) – The Middlebury Public Library, with support from the Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments (NVCOG), will host a Green Storytime for children ages 4 and up. This Storytime aims to bring awareness about recycling and sustainable waste habits to the community. This event will be held at the Middlebury Public Library located at 30 Crest Rd, Middlebury, CT 06762 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 28, 2023. Children will learn about reducing, reusing, and recycling waste, and have the opportunity to play a recycling game and do a craft. Registration is required. To register call 203-758-2634 or sign up in person at the library. 

This event continues NVCOG’s efforts to promote Middlebury’s Trash Reduction Pilot, which began on July 1st for Transfer Station users and aims to reduce trash and divert organics.  The pilot is funded by the Sustainable Materials Management Grants Program from the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. To learn more about NVCOG’s role in this program, visit https://nvcogct.gov/project/current-projects/smm-trash-reduction-pilot-program/.  

Middlebury’s pilot involves the distribution of free trash bags (orange) and food scrap bags (green) to Transfer Station users. Residents are asked to dispose of green food scrap bags in a “food waste” container located at the Transfer Station and dispose of their orange trash bags in the usual dumpster.  

The initial year’s supply of bags will be available at the Middlebury Transfer Station if you have not already received yours. A broad base of support for these programs among community organizations across the state shows promise for solving CT’s waste crisis.   

Community Conversations: Cheshire, CT is a Beacon of Proactive Development and Community Engagement

Crafted by NVCOG staff, each installment of the the “Community Conversations” spotlight serves as a community-driven article. In these sessions, staff engage with a specific community to explore various topics of their choosing. 

Written by Heidy Coronel, Communications Associate
Informational poster on Bartlem Park South fence: “What’s up with this? Improvements in the works!”

Cheshire’s Remarkable Journey

Cheshire, Connecticut, nestled in the Naugatuck Valley Planning Region, stands as an extraordinary exemplar of proactive development and community engagement. Our recent exploration alongside Mike Glidden, Cheshire’s Town Planner, offered a firsthand glimpse into the remarkable developments transforming this community.

Cheshire’s success hinges on two pivotal themes: placemaking and relationship building. The Town’s emphasis on creating a vibrant, attractive community, bolstered by excellent amenities and an exceptional school system, lures families and professionals alike. Proactive planning, community-wide investment, and a culture of relationship building has spurred development, bringing positive dividends to the Town.

Growth Story

Cheshire’s evolution over the past few years has been nothing short of remarkable. This includes the addition of 700 apartments, several of which carry deed restrictions, alongside the construction of 500 new single-family homes. Furthermore, a modernization project led to the establishment of two new schools. A standout feature of this growth story is the Bartlem Park South Project, anticipated to be completed in fall 2024, which includes an amphitheater, walking areas, passive recreation spaces, and high-quality fields for both residents and visitors. Innovative signages, equipped with QR codes, reflect Cheshire’s commitment to keeping citizens informed about their community.

What becomes abundantly clear in Cheshire’s development landscape is the high demand across various land use types, spanning industrial, commercial, residential, and municipal sectors. This demand is a testament to the town’s growing allure and potential for prosperous development.

Excavator’s arm scoops soil at construction site for new housing development
Excavator’s arm scoops soil at construction site for new housing development
Entrance view of the new Lakeside of Cheshire apartment complex located at 50 Hazel Drive, Cheshire, CT
Entrance view of the new Lakeside of Cheshire apartment complex located at 50 Hazel Drive, Cheshire, CT
Lakeside of Cheshire apartment complex located at 50 Hazel Drive, Cheshire, CT
Lakeside of Cheshire apartment complex located at 50 Hazel Drive, Cheshire, CT
Napoli Foods, Inc. trailer in Cheshire, CT
Napoli Foods, Inc. trailer in Cheshire, CT
Ball and Socket Arts center located in Cheshire, CT
Ball and Socket Arts center located in Cheshire, CT

Placemaking and Relationship Building

Cheshire demonstrates a commitment to placemaking, understanding that communities that invest in their image attract interest from various sectors. This commitment entails meticulous consideration of a project’s appearance from the pedestrian perspective and strategies to enhance public interaction with developments.

The remarkable achievements in Cheshire’s development efforts are undeniably a result of a collaborative effort. Mike Glidden, Town Planner, identified key stakeholders, such as a supportive Town Council, dedicated commissioners, engaged community members, Sean Kimball, the Town Manager, Andrew Martelli, the Coordinator of Economic Development & Grant Writing, and committed volunteers. Their synchronized collaboration is a testament to the significance of unity in community-driven development. Effective inter-departmental coordination has been pivotal to Cheshire’s successful initiatives.

Cheshire’s exceptional growth and community-driven development are emblematic of the power of synergy, forward-thinking planning, and active community participation. The experiences and insights derived from Cheshire’s journey are valuable for communities aspiring to mold their future. By the end of the tour, we were reminded that the phrase “It takes a village” holds true, especially in the context of progress-driven planning.

Mike Glidden, Cheshire Town Planner stands in front of the Cheshire Town Hall

Mike Glidden – The Town Planner

Mike Glidden, Cheshire’s Town Planner, is instrumental in the town’s development journey. His commitment to community involvement and relationship building has fostered effective planning and has cultivated an environment where developers want to invest. Mike’s approachability, open-door policy, and resilience are assets in this intricate role.

Mike also expressed deep respect and admiration for the town’s former Town Planner, Bill Voelker, AICP, who laid the groundwork for many of the master plans currently coming to fruition. Bill’s philosophy, “It’s their town; I’m just visiting,” reflects the fundamental principle of community-driven development and engagement.

Approachability and Community Knowledge

Mike emphasizes the essential qualities of approachability and judicious decision-making. Mike actively engages in comprehending individuals’ property goals, expertly navigating the delicate balance between personal desires and community regulations. While the best solutions create developments that meet the community’s and developer’s needs, Mike acknowledges that a planner’s role includes knowing when to say “no”, a practice that saves valuable time for all stakeholders involved. Deep familiarity with the community and a commitment to treating all individuals equally are at the core of effective planning.

Cheshire is distinguished by its proactive approach to planning, evident in their initiative to update the Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD) prior to their 2026 requirement.  Mike recognized the present development interests across sectors and the dynamic needs of the Town as the driving force behind the early plan update. He emphasized that this approach was made achievable through the collaborative support of the Town Council, and the Planning and Zoning Commission, illustrating how the Town’s joint efforts contribute to enhanced planning.  

A notable success story in Cheshire is the West Main Street project, marked by extensive community engagement. Over 100 individuals attended a community meeting, underscoring the community’s active participation in the development process. The town utilized a range of communication channels, including mailers, a dedicated website, and strategic use of social media.

Mike Glidden engages in conversation with Savannah-Nicole Villalba, AICP, AZT, Community Planning Director at NVCOG.

Cheshire’s Unique Essence

Cheshire, CT offers an insightful example of what can be achieved through proactive development, community engagement, and effective planning. This picturesque town is living proof that, through collaboration and unity, communities can reach new heights while preserving their unique charm. Cheshire’s remarkable journey serves as an inspiration for municipalities far and wide.

Stay Connected

Contact the Cheshire Planning and Development Department located at 84 South Main Street Cheshire, CT 06410. Telephone: 203 271-6670 Fax: 203 271-6688

Sean Kimball, Town Manager townmanager@cheshirect.org

Mike Glidden, Town Planner mglidden@cheshirect.org

Andrew Martelli, Coordinator of Economic Development & Grant Writing andrew.martelli@cheshirect.org

Learn more about Cheshire’s municipal initiatives on the town’s official website.

Explore a range of valuable resources and NVCOG projects on the Cheshire NVCOG web page.

Municipal Land Use Best Practice: Woodbury’s Variance Guide

The quarterly “Municipal Land Use Best Practice” spotlight, curated by the NVCOG Community Planning staff, is dedicated to showcasing municipal best practices. Designed to serve as a valuable resource for Town Planners, Commissioners, and land use staff, each edition features an exemplary initiative from a municipality in the Naugatuck Valley region.

Written by Emely Ricci, Community Planner

William Agresta, AICP, MLA, the Town Planner in Woodbury, CT, shared how Woodbury’s Land Use Department facilitates education and informed decision making for variance applications. Will created a comprehensive document outlining the variance process: what is and what isn’t a hardship, the threshold a variance must meet, and the elements a Zoning Board of Appeals considers when making their decision.  

The purpose for creating the guide centered around two focal reasons. One, for applicants to have a foundational understanding of what a variance is to be able to participate in the process; and two, for commission members to continue making informed decisions in alignment with the community’s regulatory policies. The guide is provided and discussed with all applicants before an application for a variance is submitted. 

Woodbury Town Hall (Source: Town of Woodbury)

Will works to connect with and educate his community members when it comes to variances. In doing so, he helps an applicant to look at alternatives that are in harmony with a municipality’s regulations avoiding a variance, while still meeting the needs of the applicant, saving them both time and cost. 

The guide is attached to each staff report for a variance application.  The intention is to remind Commissioners of their purview when deliberating an application. The guide is also readily available on the Town’s website for residents to access as applicants or informed community members. 

Will’s approach towards the variance process is an example of how municipalities can facilitate consistent and accessible dissemination of information for members of the community.  

Download the guide

Stay Connected

Contact the Woodbury Land Use Department located at 281 Main St South Woodbury, CT. 06798. Telephone: 203-263-3467

William Agresta, AICP, MLA, Town Planner wagresta@woodburyct.org

Learn more about Woodbury on the town’s official website.

Explore a range of valuable resources and NVCOG projects on the Woodbury NVCOG web page.

PRESS RELEASE: NVCOG Implements EcoInteractive to Revolutionize Transportation Planning Workflow

For Immediate Release: November 29, 2023 

Contact:
Richard Donovan   
Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments   
203-757-0535   
Rdonovan@nvcogct.gov 

(Waterbury, CT) –  The Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments (NVCOG) proudly announces the integration of EcoInteractive, a cutting-edge planning software, to streamline the workflow of the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program  (LOTCIP). By integrating this innovative technology, NVCOG aims to ensure effective collaboration and achieve sustainable transportation planning goals. 

The Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is a critical planning tool that guides the allocation of federal funds for transportation projects in our region. Metropolitan Planning Organizations maintain a TIP to manage federal transportation spending, ensuring that projects work to enhance safety, capacity, and reliability of the region’s transportation network. By applying EcoInteractive’s advanced capabilities, NVCOG aims to significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of the TIP process, ultimately leading to more effective project selection and implementation.  

EcoInteractive offers NVCOG a centralized platform that allows for improved coordination and communication between the COG’s staff, municipalities, and CTDOT. As MPOs must approve all federal spending before projects can begin, streamlining this process will reduce delays and errors in the process while also providing additional visibility into projects and plans to the public. Similarly, the LOTCIP program, which uses state funds managed by the COG to support municipal transportation projects, will be centralized within the system to ensure that the public remains informed of project progress while also ensuring a simple and effective means of communication between the COG and municipal project sponsors.

A key feature of the new system, the public facing website, will not only allow the public to see proposed changes before they are adopted but will provide more project information, regular status updates, and the opportunity for the public to ask questions or provide comment on projects and changes.   

“We are thrilled to integrate EcoInteractive into our planning workflow for the Transportation Improvement Program,” said Rick Dunne, Executive Director of NVCOG. “We are taking a significant step towards increasing our efficiency and transparency. This partnership will strengthen our ability to better serve our communities.” 

PRESS RELEASE: Regional Brownfields Partnership to Celebrate Achievements at 2023 Annual Meeting in Ansonia’s Transformed Senior Center

For Immediate Release: November 21, 2023  

Contact:  
Desira Blanchard 
Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments  
203-489-0353  
Dblanchard@nvcogct.gov

Regional Brownfields Partnership to Celebrate Achievements at 2023 Annual Meeting in Ansonia’s Transformed Senior Center 

(Waterbury, CT) – The Regional Brownfields Partnership (RBP) is set to host its 2023 Annual Meeting at a recently revitalized brownfield, the City of Ansonia’s new Senior Center at 65 Main Street. This groundbreaking event, scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, brings together members, public and private stakeholders, and brownfield enthusiasts for discussions on the transformative impact of brownfields. 

The RBP is at the forefront of brownfield redevelopment, uniting municipalities, community partners, and stakeholders to transform brownfields into vibrant community spaces. In partnership with the Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments (NVCOG), the RBP diligently accesses federal and state brownfield funding to issue sub grants and low interest loans for assessment and cleanup activities. Member communities benefit not only from financial support but also gain access to expert guidance, navigating the intricate assessment, remediation, and clean-up processes. Currently, the partnership is engaged in 15 cleanup projects, aiming to reclaim vacant or abandoned brownfield sites and restore them to tax-generating parcels. 

Sheila O’Malley, Chair of the RBP, expressed pride in the organization’s impactful work, stating “I am proud of the work we have done over the years to remediate and return the brownfield sites in our 25 member communities. The RBP has had an impactful presence in the communities in terms of assessing, cleaning and returning the properties back to the tax rolls.”  

This year’s annual meeting will be held in the 65,000 sq. foot former manufacturing building, recently transformed into a state-of-the-art police department and senior center in Ansonia’s downtown. O’Malley highlighted the significance of the RBP and NVCOG’s efforts in this transformation and emphasized their ongoing commitment to making a positive difference in member communities.  

The choice of venue symbolizes the RBP’s commitment to showcasing the potential of brownfield revitalization. Attendees will witness firsthand the successful transformation of the Senior Center, illustrating how brownfields can evolve into vibrant community assets. The annual meeting promises a dynamic agenda, featuring engaging discussions on the pivotal role brownfields play in community development.  

Guest speakers include: 

  1. Tighe & Bond: Brownfield Due Diligence Requirements and the roles of Licensed Environmental Professionals
  2. UConn Technical Assistance for Brownfields Program (TAB): Services and Community Engagement Support
  3. Mayor Carbone of Torrington and Pennrose: A Conversation on the Success of the 100 Franklin Street Riverfront Redevelopment

This event is not just a meeting; it’s a platform for community engagement. Members, stakeholders, and enthusiasts will have the opportunity to connect, fostering collaboration and partnerships. 

For those interested in attending this transformative event, please RSVP to sperry@ncogct.gov. Parking is available at the venue and nearby municipal parking lots. 

For general questions regarding RBP membership, please email Steven Perry, Environmental Planner, at sperry@nvcogct.gov. 

-END-  

Sustainability Spotlight: Blight and Native Landscaping

Dive into the ‘Sustainability Spotlight’ by the Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments, a municipal guide to blending sustainability with land use regulations. Uncover creative ideas and hands-on approaches to foster a greener, more sustainable future. 
 
Written by Christine O’Neill, Environmental Planner II

Many Connecticut municipalities have adopted blight ordinances to regulate unsightly properties that lower surrounding home values or create public health and safety issues. Such ordinances may be enforced by zoning officials, the police department, or a combination of the two. While these regulations serve an important role, they may unwittingly outlaw native landscaping from your community. 

Native landscaping uses plants that have historically grown in a given area to achieve ecological benefits. Native plants provide food for pollinators and wildlife, require less watering and maintenance than ornamental counterparts, and launch deeper root systems that prevent erosion and exchange nutrients with the soil. Another component of native landscaping is maintaining or emulating the natural processes of the ecosystem, such as not raking leaves in the fall or cutting back dormant plants. Two movements associated with native landscaping are “No Mow May” (allowing insects to emerge from overwintering while providing food sources for early pollinators) and “Leave the Leaves” (intentionally leaving layers of leaf-litter and duff, which are valuable for soil health, insect and amphibian habitat, and wildlife cover).   

Embracing the beauty of an untamed garden, a West Hartford resident participates in the No Mow May initiative. Source: CT Insider
Embracing the beauty of an untamed garden, a West Hartford resident participates in the No Mow May initiative. Source: CT Insider
A native garden in Wolcott with “overgrown” plants. Source: Christine O'Neill
A native garden in Wolcott with “overgrown” plants. Source: Christine O'Neill
Local ordinances label leaves as "rubbish," potentially marking a property as blighted. Yet, leaves are crucial winter insulation for wildlife. Source: Xerces Society
Local ordinances label leaves as "rubbish," potentially marking a property as blighted. Yet, leaves are crucial winter insulation for wildlife. Source: Xerces Society

Compared to the highly manicured gardening we often see, a native garden may look unruly – even falling into the definition of blight. Several municipalities in our region consider the following to be elements of blight: overgrown vegetation, leaf litter, grasses over a given number of inches, and “weeds.1”  

Consider amending your definition of blight to exclude native landscaping as described above. The Town of Cheshire in our region already excludes “areas maintained in their original naturally wooded state, or a natural field state” from its definition, while the City of Stamford carves out an exemption for “managed natural meadow landscapes.” Confer with your municipal counsel to ensure your proposed language is legally sound and enforceable.  

[1] Note: “Weeds” does not refer to any particular group of plants – it is a descriptive term used to characterize any plants that are undesirable in a given environment. One neighbor’s weed is another neighbor’s wildflower.

Please send any questions or suggestions to Christine O’Neill, Environmental Planner II at coneill@nvcogct.gov. 

NEWS RELEASE: Governor Lamont Announces $11.7 Million in State Grants to Improve Transportation Safety and Accessibility in 17 Towns and Cities

Seal for the Office of the Connecticut Governor

Click here to access the press release from the office of Governor Ned Lamont

Governor Lamont Announces $11.7 Million in State Grants to Improve Transportation Safety and Accessibility in 17 Towns and Cities

Governor Ned Lamont and Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto today announced that the Connecticut Department of Transportation is awarding $11.7 million in grants to 17 towns and cities across Connecticut under the state-funded Community Connectivity Grant Program.

Now in its fifth round of awards, the program is an infrastructure improvement initiative that provides funding for local projects that improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users in urban, suburban, and rural communities.

“These projects help connect people to their communities, promote economic development, create more vibrant town centers, and encourage environmentally friendly transportation options,” Governor Lamont said. “Supporting this program with state dollars is improving the quality of life for towns and cities throughout the state.”

“Increasing safety and improving connectivity are top priorities for the Connecticut Department of Transportation,” Commissioner Eucalitto said. “Through the Community Connectivity Grant Program, we are helping make our village, town, and city centers safer and more accessible. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for ensuring these funds are available to assist towns and cities with important projects.”

The grants approved under this fifth round include:

  • Berlin: Kensington Transit Oriented Development Sidewalk Improvements ($780,000)
  • Branford: Pedestrian Connectivity Improvements ($800,000)
  • Bridgeport: ADA Improvements in the East Side ($798,008)
  • Bristol: Replacing Handicap Ramps at Key Locations ($793,184)
  • Canton: Safety Connections to Farmington River Rail Trail ($223,478)
  • East Granby: Town Campus Sidewalk Connections ($690,000)
  • East Hampton: Village Center Sidewalks and Streetscape ($800,000)
  • Manchester: Keeney Street Sidewalk Installation ($800,000)
  • New Britain: West Main Street Pedestrian Connectivity and Safety Improvements ($794,400)
  • New Haven: Wintergreen Area Pedestrian Improvements ($669,600)
  • Norwalk: Hospital Hill Village Safety Enhancements ($800,000)
  • Plainfield: Phase 1, Segment 1B Shepard Hill Road Safety Improvements ($604,800)
  • Shelton: Downtown Shelton ADA Improvements Project ($563,000)
  • South Windsor: Town of South Windsor Cross Town Trails ($800,000)
  • Stamford: Belltown Neighborhood Connectivity and Safety Project ($800,000)
  • Waterbury: Baldwin Street Sidewalk Improvements-Phase I ($784,835)
  • Wolcott: Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge/Sidewalk Over the Cornelis Dam ($231,000)

Municipalities that have been selected to receive grants will be expected to complete the project within three years. The funding limits for grants awarded in this solicitation are between $100,000 and $800,000. The 121 grants awarded in all five rounds total more than $50 million. Additional allocations under this program are expected in 2024.

For more information on the Community Connectivity Grant Program, visit portal.ct.gov/DOT/PP_Intermodal/CTConnectivity/CT-Connectivity-CCGP.



FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS
860-594-3062
CTDOTMedia@ct.gov

Twitter: @CTDOTOfficial
Facebook: Connecticut Department of Transportation

 

Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments Spearheads Regional Response Effort to Achieve VMT Reduction Strategies

Waterbury, CT – The Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments (NVCOG) takes immense pride in announcing its proactive response to the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s (CTDOT) Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) reduction goal. NVCOG has diligently developed a comprehensive set of reduction strategies to ensure a sustainable future for transportation in the greater Naugatuck Valley region.

The CTDOT recently announced its ambitious target to reduce VMT by 5% by the year 2030. VMT reduction is crucial for curbing greenhouse gas emissions, reducing congestion, and promoting sustainable transportation choices. Recognizing the significance of this initiative, NVCOG, in alignment with its mission to provide transportation planning and regional assistance to its member municipalities, has actively engaged in research and analysis to devise comprehensive solutions tailored to the specific needs and challenges faced by the Naugatuck Valley region.

The prepared response encompasses a multifaceted approach, targeting various aspects of transportation and mobility. From enhancing public transit options and promoting active transportation alternatives to encouraging zoning and development policies centered around transit-oriented development, these strategies aim to create a sustainable and efficient transportation system for the residents and businesses of the region and the state.

Key Reduction Strategies Proposed by NVCOG include:

1. Enhancing Public Transportation Infrastructure:

NVCOG is committed to developing and expanding existing public transportation services, making them more accessible, reliable, and user-friendly. This includes improving connectivity across the region, enhancing last-mile connections, and increasing the frequency of services. 

2. Promoting Active Transportation:

In order to reduce dependency on private vehicles, NVCOG will prioritize the promotion of active transportation modes such as walking, rolling, cycling, shared micro mobility options, and the implementation of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.

The full VMT Reduction Strategy can be accessed via the NVCOG website at https://nvcogct.gov/project/vmt-reduction-strategy/.