Danbury Recommended for $5 Million Grant For Downtown Revitalization

DANBURY, CT — The City of Danbury has been recommended for a $5 million grant through Connecticut’s Community Investment Fund (CIF) 2030, a program under the state’s Department of Economic and Community Development. The funding, part of the program’s sixth round, would support the city’s Downtown Danbury Transit-Oriented Development Streetscape Renaissance Project.

The project, currently in its second phase, aims to improve pedestrian access, safety, and infrastructure in the downtown area. Planned upgrades include sidewalk and ramp improvements, crosswalk installations, solar-powered parking kiosks, paving repairs, and landscaping enhancements.

The CIF grant follows a $4 million award from the Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program (LOTCIP) earlier this year, also designated for downtown revitalization.

“Transforming our streetscapes will create a more walkable and accessible downtown, improving the quality of life for residents and visitors,” Mayor Roberto Alves said in a statement Tuesday.

Construction is expected to begin later this year, affecting multiple streets, including Main Street, Boughton Street, Crosby Street, Liberty Street, Patriot Drive, Independence Way, White Street, Ives Street, a portion of Elm Street, Post Office Walk, and Kennedy Avenue.

City officials say the funding will address infrastructure needs in high-traffic areas.

“This grant allows us to focus on areas in need of repairs and create a safer, more inviting downtown,” said Waleed Albakry, Danbury’s Planning Director.

The Community Investment Fund 2030 supports infrastructure and economic development projects across Connecticut. The State Bonding Commission will review the grant recommendation before final approval.

“This funding brings us one step closer to a stronger, more connected downtown,” Alves said.

The city will provide updates on the grant process and project timeline. More information is available at Danbury’s official website.