Westport Director of Public Works Pete Ratkiewich announced the Town is the recipient of a Connecticut Small Towns Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) grant in the amount of $128,205 earmarked for the replacement of the sidewalks on Maple Avenue South. The Town will fund $21,795 of this project.
Maple Avenue South will get a new sidewalk. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
According to Governor Ned Lamont’s Nov. 9, 2020 announcement, more than $11 million in STEAP funding was awarded to 94 small towns across Connecticut for various infrastructure improvement projects. This is the first time since 2016 that the State has awarded STEAP funding.
The grant funds awarded to Westport are targeted at replacement and construction of a section of sidewalk on Maple Avenue South from Post Road East to Clapboard Hill Road, about 2,575 linear feet. It includes replacement and new “infill” construction where there is currently no sidewalk. The current sidewalk, in poor condition, will be replaced, making it continuous for the entire length of the segment. It will make walking safer for pedestrians along Maple Avenue South and make it easier for pedestrians to get to businesses on the Post Road. The funds will be used primarily for construction.
First Selectman Jim Marpe said, “I am pleased that the State funds will allow the Department of Public Works to begin work on this important infrastructure improvement that facilitates pedestrian access and contributes to the walkability of Westport.”
