The Town was recently awarded $128,205 in grant funding from the State of Connecticut under the Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP). The last year STEAP was awarded was 2016.
The State grants will support a local commercial façade grant program. The Town will make grants to businesses as a financial incentive to assist property owners with renovation expenses to improve the exterior conditions of their facilities, including building façades or site improvements. It will help encourage small businesses to stay competitive as they recover from the pandemic and support a vibrant streetscape. Enhancements to commercial facilities will help them maintain their competitive edge, allow for quality retailers to be attracted and retained, and update facilities.
The grant program will be introduced to local businesses over the winter following the completion of grant contracts with the state. In conjunction with the Economic Development Commission, projects should be able to start in the spring of 2021.