Beacon Falls, Prospect to receive STEAP grants

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By Paul Hughes, Republican-American

HARTFORD — Gov. Ned Lamont on Monday announced $11 million in economic development grants are being awarded to small towns and suburbs.

The governor’s office said this is the first round of grants to be awarded through the Small Town Economic Assistance Program since 2016.

Grants were awarded to 94 communities, including the towns of Beacon Falls and Prospect.

Beacon Falls received $128,205 for storm drainage improvements on Cook Lane to resolve flooding issues and road deterioration. This will be matched by $131,795 from the town.

Prospect received $50,000 for the planning and design of a new emergency shelter and emergency management center at the Prospect Community Center. This will be matched by $50,000 from the town.

Under STEAP, towns may receive up to $500,000 for economic and community development, transportation, environmental protection, public safety, historic preservation, housing and social service programs. The grant amounts announced Monday ranged from $50,000 to $128,205.

The competitive grants can only be used for capital projects. Towns selected for an award are required to execute a contract with the state agency assigned to administer their grant before they incur any project-related expenditures.