Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that the town of New Canaan will receive a $150,000 state grant to rehabilitate the trail system at Waveny Park.

The funds are being awarded through the Connecticut Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP). STEAP provides financial assistance for projects that encourage economic development and preserve the character of the state’s less-populated towns.

New Canaan will use the grant to overhaul the 4½-mile system of trails that leads through the woods and fields of the park. The project has a total cost of $600,000, of which about $100,000 has already been raised.

“The trail system at Waveny Park is an open invitation to enjoy nature all the year round,” Governor Rell said. “However, the trails need to be updated to enhance drainage and improve access. This is the kind of project that benefits the entire region and I am pleased to see it moving forward.”

“Waveny Park offers so many benefits for the people of New Canaan – it really is a community gathering place,” said state Representative John W. Hetherington (R-125). “When the trail improvements are complete the park offer even greater opportunity for exercise and enjoyment while making sure the environment is protected and preserved.”

State Senator William H. Nickerson (R-36) added: “I am delighted that the state will be a partner with the Town of New Canaan in improving this outstanding recreational facility. I thank Governor Rell for her decision to make this possible. The Governor announced today that she was faced with the task of pairing $50 million in original STEAP applications down to the $20 million allocated today, and I appreciate her including New Canaan.”

“All of New Canaan feels special warmth for Waveny Park,” said state Senator Judith Freedman (R-26). “From summer camps or days by the pool to cross-country races to a stroll through the woods, the park has given residents and families a place to relax and recuperate for decades. This is great news for the region.”

Governor Rell also thanked state Representative William Tong (D-147) for his support of the funding.

More than $19.7 million in STEAP funds for 72 towns were proposed for approval on the Bond Commission agenda Friday. The funds will enable 83 projects across the state to move forward.

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