November 14, 2012

GOV. MALLOY ANNOUNCES SMALL TOWN ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT GRANTS FOR BETHANY, GREENWICH, SOUTH WINDSOR

(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy announced Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) emergency management awards today for the towns of Bethany, Greenwich, and South Windsor. Towns are awarded funds to undertake projects that upgrade infrastructure and the town's ability to respond to emergencies.

"The three weather related emergencies we've experienced over the last fifteen months have made the need for a coordinated response at the state and municipal levels all the more important," said Governor Malloy. "The investments we're announcing today will help these towns enhance their emergency response capabilities, while at same time allow them to move some really great projects forward."

Bethany was awarded $500,000 in STEAP funds to convert a former airport hangar into a Community Recreation Center that will also serve as a handicapped accessible emergency shelter when needed.

"Bethany town officials and residents have shown support for this new recreational and community facility at the 120-acre site of the old airport," said State Senator Joseph J. Crisco, Jr. (D-Woodbridge). "This state grant will underwrite a sizeable portion of the construction cost, allowing the town to enhance the property for residents and include an emergency operations center. I'm grateful to Governor Malloy and the Office of Policy and Management for their favorable consideration of this project for STEAP funding."

Greenwich was awarded $245,000 in STEAP funds to replace key components of the town's communication network, which has failed several times during emergency situations. The grant will allow Greenwich to install new systems and will ensure a well-coordinated efficient emergency response.

"Greenwich is very grateful for the state grant which will help fund the upgrade of critical life-safety communications systems for our emergency responders. It could not have come at a better time," said State Representative Livvy R. Floren (R-Greenwich).

"We are delighted and thank the Governor for $245,000 to purchase new communications equipment for the town of Greenwich. As communication devices become more sophisticated with enhanced multi-media delivery, this award will be most useful in preparing our town to deal with fire, police, and storm emergencies," said State Representative Lile Gibbons (R-Greenwich).

"I am pleased that our town is receiving a $245,000 STEAP grant to purchase equipment that will allow for better communication for our Fire, Police, Public Works, and the Parks & Recreation Departments. Public safety is first and foremost on everyone's minds and the people of the Town of Greenwich can be assured that the Greenwich delegation will continue to stand and work with the State of Connecticut in our commitment to their well being," said State Representative Fred Camillo (R-Greenwich).

South Windsor was awarded $500,000 in STEAP funds to build an Emergency Operations Center that will also be used to conduct emergency preparedness training. During the statewide July exercises, town officials questioned the current EOC's soundness during storms rated at category 3 or higher. The EOC will also be used as a small business incubator for town businesses considering expansion.

"This grant is obviously important in terms of emergency operations, but it's also important for the long-term economic health of South Windsor and the region," said State Senator Gary D. LeBeau (D-East Hartford). "Local start-up companies will be able to use the center and its technologies to facilitate their growth and success."

"Encouraging economic growth through small business assistance and emergency preparedness are two of the highest priorities and responsibilities of state government, and this project will move us forward on both fronts," said State Representative Tim Larson (D-East Hartford, South Windsor). "This is a sound investment by the state on behalf of taxpayers and a welcome addition to our community."

"The old post office has been sitting idle for a long time and this STEAP grant will help return it to active use," said State Representative Bill Aman (R-South Windsor). "With the help of this grant South Windsor will get an emergency operations and technology center and local businesses will benefit from access to a high tech communication center."

In October 2012, The State Bond Commission allocated $10 million for 2013 STEAP grants.

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For Immediate Release: November 14, 2012

Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy