Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced the town of Avon will receive a $309,595 STEAP grant for the implementation of a decorative lighting and sidewalk plan at the town’s village center.

These funds were made available through the Connecticut Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP). STEAP provides about $20 million annually in financial assistance for projects that encourage economic development and preserve the character of the state’s less populated towns.

“One of my top priorities as Governor has been to preserve Connecticut’s character for towns large and small – and this STEAP grant helps us achieve exactly that for the town of Avon. I believe strongly that this $309,565 investment will not only enhance the aesthetics and safety in this part of town but will also increase the level of pride the people of Avon and local businesses have in their community,” said Governor Rell.

“The village center is sometimes the hub of activity in Avon and an investment of this size can make it an even more inviting place for all residents. This is a sound investment in the future of this town and another reason why Avon residents will be able to enjoy the beauty and heritage of this part of Connecticut for years to come,” said State Senator Thomas Herlihy (R-Simsbury).

“I was pleased to have played a role in securing this funding to enhance Avon’s village center. An investment of this amount in a small town like ours will have a lasting impact on our future and the quality of life that people of Avon expect and deserve,” said State Representative Kevin Witkos (R-Canton).

The Governor also thanked State Representative Beth Bye (D-West Hartford) for her advocacy in securing this STEAP grant for Avon.

Governor Rell chairs the State Bond Commission meetings which held its meeting on Friday at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford. More than $19.7 million in STEAP funds for 72 towns were on the Bond Commission agenda. The funds will enable 83 projects across the state move forward.

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