$5.5M In State Funds Approved For Flood Mitigation Project In Stratford

STRATFORD, CT — The Stratford state delegation and town leaders are applauding the Community Investment Fund's (CIF) approval of $5.5 million for flood mitigation efforts at Ferry Boulevard and Broad Street.

The funding needs final approval from the State Bond Commission. If it receives final approval, construction is anticipated to start by January 2026, with completion expected by October 2027.

Members of the Stratford Delegation – Representatives Joseph Gresko, Kaitlyn Shake, Ben McGorty, and Senator Jason Perillo – offered support for the project, which includes raising the elevation of Ferry Boulevard (Route 130) at the Broad Street intersection, and elevating Broad Street and replacing bridge Number 138-005, Broad Street over Ferry Creek, according to a news release. U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro also supported the project.

"When completed, this project will reduce flooding on Ferry Boulevard and permit the stormwater pumping station on Ferry Creek," Gresko said. "My appreciation to the Speaker and members of the CIF for responding favorably to persistent advocacy."

Read more from the news release below:

“I am grateful to have collaborated with Representative Gresko and the Stratford Delegation to deliver this funding for Stratford," Shake said. "I understand how critical these infrastructure updates are for the Ferry Creek area, the rest of the 120th District, and Stratford as a whole. This region is frequently affected by flooding during coastal storms, and these improvements will significantly enhance the quality of life for our residents and businesses. I am proud to see progress being made on this project and will continue to advocate for funding to address the pressing needs of Stratford."

Stratford Mayor Laura Hoydick said, “Stratford has been working diligently on the flooding issues in town, and considering all the work that EPA, CT DEEP, and the town have invested in the Raymark remediation, this investment in Stratford’s infrastructure will help us reduce the threat of flooding for our residents, businesses, and commuters, while strengthening the resiliency of our community for decades to come. I appreciate the Community Investment Fund, our state and federal delegation, and local leaders for championing this project. Together, we are ensuring that Ferry Boulevard, Broad Street, and Stratford as a whole remain safe, reliable, and resilient."

“I'm glad we could help the residents of Stratford address this issue," said House Speaker Matthew Ritter, who serves as a co-chair on the CIF Board. "The bridge over Ferry Creek is nearly 70 years old, and an assessment done in 1991 – more than three decades ago - noted the bridge needed replacement due to its age and the significant role it plays in mitigating flooding in the vicinity."

McCorty said, “This investment will be a welcome boost to much-needed and long-overdue changes that will mitigate roadway flooding and improve driver and pedestrian access and safety. I want to thank the CIF Board for its commitment to infrastructure improvements like this and look forward to its completion."

State Sen. Herron Gaston said, “This $5.5 million investment through the Community Investment Fund is a major step forward for Stratford. Flooding in the Ferry Boulevard and Broad Street area has been a persistent challenge, impacting homes, businesses, and transportation. By raising road elevations and replacing outdated infrastructure, we’re protecting property and ensuring the town can thrive for years to come."

Perillo said, “I have been in frequent contact with Mayor Hoydick and her team, and they have made it clear that this is a top priority for our community. This is a great example of state officials and local leaders working together to deliver meaningful improvements for our residents. I also want to thank the Community Investment Fund for recognizing the urgency of this issue and everyone who helped secure this critical funding."