Guilford Receiving $3.5M For The Quonnipaug Dam Fortification Project

GUILFORD, CT – The Lake Quonnipaug Dam and the surrounding area, including residential homes and sections of Route 77, have been subject to flooding.

To help with the issue, Guilford is receiving $3.5 million from the State Bond Commission to fortify the dam.

The project is part of the town’s Climate Adaptation and Resilient Infrastructure Program.

“We are thrilled to receive State bond funding for this critical project which will ensure the integrity of the Lake Quonnipaug Dam, protect downstream properties from flooding and continue the use of the State boat launch on the northern part of the lake,” Matt Hoey said, Guilford’s First Selectman.

Hoey said the project also includes realigning a difficult intersection on Route 77.

“Guilford taxpayers appreciate the State’s support of this project,” he said.

Senator Christine Cohen said the flooding at the Lake Quonnipaug Dam has been a concern of the town, and he’s pleased to see the project moving forward to prevent flooding and road closures.

“I am so proud of our town’s forward-thinking approach to climate resiliency, and I’m incredibly grateful to Guilford resident Comptroller Sean Scanlon for starting this important work as then representative and his help in securing the funding,” she said. “I appreciate Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for recognizing this as vital infrastructure and continuing to support our town's needs.”

House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora said the funding is an important and timely allocation for Guilford, which faces significant challenges related to the Quonnipaug Dam.

“This smart investment by the Bond Commission will help local officials prevent a total failure of the dam while also protecting nearby properties and roads, and I applaud the effort of everyone who has focused on this issue and advocated for this critical allocation of state funds,” he said.