July 3, 2012

GOV. MALLOY: TOWN OF CANTERBURY AWARDED $265K STEAP GRANT

(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that the Town of Canterbury has been awarded a $265,000 Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) grant that will be used towards capital improvement projects at Dr. Helen Baldwin Middle School and Manship Park.

"These grants allow the state to help our small towns improve their infrastructure and encourage economic development," said Governor Malloy. "Overall, the investments strengthen our communities and improve our public spaces, allowing for capital improvement projects that might not otherwise get done."

At Dr. Helen Baldwin Middle School, the funding will be used for improvements to the softball field, soccer field, tennis courts and basketball court. In Manship Park, upgrades will be made to the baseball field, track, soccer field and other facilities, and the town will also install an ice rink, an additional volleyball court, security lights, and fencing along Quinnibaug River.

"The improvements to Baldwin Middle School and Manship Park will provide an enjoyable gathering place for Canterbury's children and families to spend time together and get exercise outdoors," said Senate President Donald E. Williams (D-Canterbury, Brooklyn). "Investments like this create a sense of place and community in our small towns."

"Construction of these projects will energize our entire community and provide healthy recreational benefits to residents of all ages year-round," said Canterbury First Selectman Brian Sear. "It's an ideal use of STEAP funds, providing immediate construction activity in areas difficult to fund in the normal budget process."

Under Governor Malloy's leadership, the State Bond Commission allocated $20 million for STEAP grants in September 2011 with the first awards going out in December 2011. The grants are awarded to small towns throughout the entire state and are granted in part due to project readiness and their impact on overall regional economic development.

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For Immediate Release: July 3, 2012

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