East Hartford Will Redevelop Silver Lane Plaza With State Funding

EAST HARTFORD, CT — East Hartford will receive $11 million to redevelop its Silver Lane corridor and improve a handful of town facilities after the Connecticut State Bond Commission approved the funding today.

A majority of the money ($10 million) will be used to redevelop the Silver Lane corridor, officials with the Connecticut General Assembly said.

In addition to supporting existing projects along Silver Lane, the money will be used to purchase sites like Applegate Lane and Silver Lane Plaza, with the goal of developing them further and improving the area's walkability.

The remaining $1 million will be used to support improvements to town parks, community pools, recreational facilities, and open space in East Hartford, the CGA said.

"These projects will help East Hartford build for the future, as well as make immediate improvement to our community," Rep. Henry Genga (D-East Hartford) said in a statement. "Improving our parks will be vital — they provide our community with entertainment, as well as a safe space to gather and interact with others. The development products will be a driver for our town's economy in the near future."

Additionally, State Sen. Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor, East Hartford, Ellington, East Windsor) said the investment will allow for more housing in town.

"This investment in the redevelopment of a vital corridor for EastHartford's business and economic future, adding momentum to a project long in the works in our town, will significantly support our community and provide new housing opportunities for current and future residents," Anwar said in a statement. "Additionally, the significant contribution toward local outdoor recreation will benefit the entire town, improving its ability to provide safe, healthy resources for exercise."