State Funds Earmarked For Bridge Replacement Project In Stafford

STAFFORD, CT — The Connecticut Department of Transportation announced this week that more than $17.3 million in grant money has been designated for 15 projects in Connecticut under the state-funded State Local Bridge Program and a bridge in Stafford is included

The State Local Bridge Program is a cost-matching grant program that provides 50 percent of the project costs for locally owned bridges. A $532,550 grant has been earmarked for the town of Stafford to support the replacement of "Bridge No. 134015 on Cooper Lane, over an unnamed brook.

Cities and towns administer all design and construction aspects of their projects, while the CTDOT oversees project milestones and provides guidance for the municipalities.

"This program helps keep locally owned bridges in good repair, ensuring they remain safe and reliable for all travelers," DOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said. “As the program continues to deliver real results for communities both big and small, its popularity grows year after year. We’re proud to support these efforts and get the projects to the finish line."

State Sen. Jeff Gordon (R-35th district, hailed the award.

"This is great news for Stafford and for the people who rely on this bridge every day," Gordon. said. "Strong infrastructure means safer travel, more reliable routes for emergency responders, and better quality of life for our towns. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and DOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto for continuing to support our local communities through this important program."

Created by the General Assembly in 1984, the program has delivered more than $162 million in grants since 2016 to help municipalities address the more than 4,200 local bridges and culverts that exist on locally maintained roads across Connecticut.

"I will continue working to ensure that northeastern Connecticut receives the attention and resources it deserves from the state," Gordon said. "I am proud that we've seen more investment in public infrastructure in our towns over the past several years, and projects like this bridge replacement in Stafford reflect that ongoing effort. These improvements strengthen our communities and help keep people safe."