“I would like to thank Governor Rowland for his help in making this grant possible for the people in New Fairfield and Sherman,” said Senator Cappiello. “This project will help expand and improve many athletic facilities in both towns for young athletes and local residents who take advantage of the fields.”

“I’m glad we were able to help secure New Fairfield and Sherman secure STEAP funding,” said Rep. Carson. “The program allows towns to do capital improvement projects that otherwise would fall the cracks.”

The money for New Fairfield is being used to improve both indoor and outdoor recreational facilities at New Fairfield High School. Funds from the grant will enable the town to construct an additional soccer field, expand a multi-purpose field, resurface the track and replace an aging bleacher system in the gymnasium.

The STEAP funds for Sherman are divided into four separate projects. Veteran’s Field on Rt. 39 is receiving $35,000 to help with the construction of permanent storage facilities, while Sherman’s Senior Center will have a new roof, heating system, and air conditioning system installed thanks to a $16,000 grant. The Parks and Recreation Department will use an additional $300,000 grant to construct two soccer fields and two regulation size Little League baseball fields. Finally, $12,000 will be used to repair and replace several large multi-pane windows located on the side of Sherman’s Historic Playhouse.

STEAP funds economic development, community conservation and quality of life projects for localities that are ineligible to receive Urban action bonds. The program is administered by the Office of Policy and Management.