State Representative Mark DeCaprio Joins State and Local Leaders to Highlight Norton Park Improvements
Colchester– On Wednesday, State Representative Mark DeCaprio (R-48) joined state and local leaders including Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-33), Colchester First Selectman Bernie Denler, along with officials from DEEP, to discuss the recently awarded $1,125,700 grant to complete remediation of approximately 3,200 cubic yards of impacted soil at the former Norton Paper Mill site, which is set to become a recreation park.
In June, the site was awarded the funding through the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s Brownfield Remediation Program that was awarded to 22 various properties across Connecticut.
“This is very good news for Colchester and everyone who has worked so hard for Norton Park,” said Rep. DeCaprio. “I was pleased to join Lieutenant Governor Bysiewicz, Senator Needleman, Bernie Dennler, and all who attended today to mark this significant step to ensure Norton Park’s eventual completion. We have seen needed funding for several projects around the state using this new program. When Norton Park was included, it really underscores the hard work that so many people here in Colchester have put into this land.”
In 2023, State Representative DeCaprio championed $500,000 in Connecticut State Bond funding for the site. Norton Park is located off Route 149 in the Westchester section of Colchester. The property, which was once home to the Norton Paper Mill, was purchased initially back in 2015. In 2019, the Norton Park Committee was formed to serve as an advisory committee to assist with the completion of the site. Norton Park sits just off the Connecticut Air Line Trail, which spans from Thompson to East Haddam, Connecticut. The Air Line Trail draws outdoor enthusiasts from across Connecticut.
“For years now, the Norton Park Committee has been dedicated to this project and have continued working hard to complete their vision for this site. It’s been exciting to see all their hard work pay off for this wonderful town,” he concluded.
State Representative Mark DeCaprio proudly represents the 48th General Assembly District including the towns of Bozrah, Colchester, Franklin, and Lebanon.
