ICYMI: Woodbridge Receives Major Grant to Convert Fire HQ to Community Space

Editor’s note: This announcement was published Wednesday by Star Patcher Betsy Yagla on Bethwood Patch. We’re republishing it here, in case you missed it:

By Betsy Yagla (Star Patcher)

The Town of Woodbridge is among seven grant recipients in the first round of funding for the state’s Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP), Governor Dannel P. Malloy announced on Monday.

Woodbridge will receive $500,000 to convert the former Fire House into a community and recreational space, the next of many steps in the the Town’s long-term plans for the Town center campus buildings.

“I am so pleased to receive this significant state grant,” said First Selectman Ellen Scalettar. “This money will help the Town prepare to reuse the former fire house, which will create more needed community, meeting and recreational space in the Town’s center. I’d like to thank the Governor for the grant and our state delegation for supporting us in our application which was so well prepared by our Finance Director, Tony Genovese.”

STEAP grants are designed to assist small towns with infrastructure improvement projects. In the past Woodbridge has received STEAP grants to install sidewalks in the business district. A STEAP grant received last year will be used to re-pave the Beecher Road School parking lots and sidewalks after the school’s renovation project is completed.

“Partnering with our small towns, we’re able to move necessary projects forward that improve the quality of life for residents in those communities, while also strengthening our public spaces and business districts,” Governor Malloy said. “These funds help towns throughout our state grow and remain competitive, and we’re proud to provide this support today so we can all deliver a brighter tomorrow.”