State Awards STEAP Grant to East Granby

$24.5 million in grants to 60 small towns for infrastructure improvements

HARTFORD – State Representative Tami Zawistowski (R-69) and State Senator John Kissel (R-7) today announced that the State has awarded a Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) grant to the town of East Granby for the recreational facility upgrades at East Granby Farms.

East Granby is slated to receive $500,000 in state funding to help upgrade the recreation area to guests and visitors of East Granby Farm. Additionally, East Granby will match the grant with $325,000 in town funds.

“This is such great news for East Granby! Congratulations to everyone involved in working with East Granby Parks & Recreation and the Town of East Granby on this award, which we are confident will put to great use,” Rep. Tami Zawistowski said. “The combined effort of state and local leaders to make this generous grant a reality is a testament to the importance that East Granby Farms has for our community and visitors to our great town. We are confident that this grant will make provide new recreational opportunities for our area and provide conveniences for those who play sports, hike and attend events there. It is equally important that this grant goes to increase access to nature-based recreation in this wonderful park, which will serve families well. This is a clear investment in all of East Granby and I want to thank the governor and his team as well for their consideration of this project and its impact.”

“Excellent news for East Granby!” Sen. John A. Kissel said. “Rep. Zawistowski and I teamed with local officials to advocate for these funds because they will provide new recreational opportunities, create jobs, support local businesses and improve the quality of life in town. This sound investment will promote wellness and physical activity for children, seniors and people of all ages. We remain committed to East Granby’s long-term growth and prosperity, and we thank the governor for his attention to the town’s needs.”

“I am so proud and grateful for the effort put in to applying for the STEAP grant. This achievement is a testament to the hard work spearheaded by our Parks & Recreation Commission and a BIG win for the Town of East Granby. Thank You to Parks & Rec for taking on the task of the application process and for all others who had a part in its completion,” East Granby First Selectwoman Eden Wimpfheimer said.

By law, STEAP grants can only be used for capital projects, such as new construction or expansion, renovation or replacement for an existing facility or facilities. The grants are coordinated by the Connecticut Office of Policy and Management.

The grants are part of a larger $24.5 million package of state grants for 60 small towns announced by Governor Lamont this week. The grants are provided through the Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP), a state program managed by the Office of Policy and Management (OPM) that delivers grants to small towns for economic development, community conservation, and quality-of-life capital projects.

-30-