$1.2 Million Grant Bringing New Sidewalks, Bike Amenities to Fairfield

Fairfield has received a $1.2 million grant for improvements to the Kings Highway East and Commerce Drive area.

The federally funded grant, which was recently approved by town bodies, was received from the Connecticut Department of Transportation through the Federal Transportation Alternatives Program and will enable the town to make improvements along Kings Highway East from Chambers Street to Brentwood Avenue.

The funding will be used to construct new sidewalks and curbs along both north and south sides, with median improvements for improved pedestrian access and aesthetics. There will also be ADA compliant handicap ramps installed at intersections. Bicycle amenities, such as bike racks, signs and bike parking will also be included, as well as possible bike routes, according to First Selectman Mike Tetreau.

The town applied for the grant following a public informational meeting held last June where requests were made to improve and encourage more walking and biking in this area.

“I am thankful that our Town has been awarded this important grant to help make needed improvements in this key economic corridor,” said Tetreau. “This grant allows the Town to connect adjoining neighborhoods to the new train station and encourages alternative means of transportation, such as biking and walking, that are more pedestrian friendly.”

State Representative Kim Fawcett echoed Tetreau’s sentiments.

“This investment is exciting because we have been advocating for upgrades to the Kings Highway East corridor for several years,” she said. “The residents on this side of town have been very patient and we are finally delivering some upgrades that are desperately needed.”

Design for this project is expected to start Spring 2014 and be completed around October 2014. Construction should begin April 2015 with project completion around December 2015, according to Tetreau.