WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) celebrated the award of a Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant to the Central Naugatuck Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (CNVMPO) to support the planning and design of a segment of the Naugatuck River Greenway Trail. The non-motorized multi-use trail being developed will follow the river for 44 miles through parts of the Fifth District, including Litchfield, Harwinton, Thomaston, Watertown, and Waterbury.
The award amount, totaling $5,725,699, is greater than the $5.1 million in funds requested by Congresswoman Hayes and Senator Richard Blumenthal, Senator Chris Murphy, and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) in a letter sent to the U.S. Department of Transportation earlier this year.
“I am delighted to announce over $5.7 million in federal funding to expand the Naugatuck River Greenway Trail, a project that I have long supported,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “This funding is an example of our local, state, and federal officials coming together to strengthen the economic and environmental future of the region. In Congress, I have advocated for several conservation and public land projects in the Fifth District and across the state so all can enjoy clean, healthy outdoor spaces – today and in the future. I look forward to continuing to work alongside the U.S. Department of Transportation and our local leaders to connect more communities and protect the diverse ecosystem of the region.”
The grant funding will be used to complete final design, environmental review, and preparation of construction documentation of a roughly 6-mile section between the northern point of downtown Thomaston to the southerly point of downtown Naugatuck, connecting through downtown Waterbury and Watertown. Once finished, the trail will provide a direct connection between these vital economic centers while also providing access to the river for historically underserved communities.
“The NRG Trail is a transformative project that will enhance our region's connectivity, promote sustainable transportation, and provide residents with greater access to recreational opportunities. This funding not only acknowledges the importance of our vision for a more integrated and resilient community but also empowers us to take substantial strides towards realizing it,” said Rick Dunne, Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments Executive Director. “We extend our deepest gratitude to our federal delegation and state partners for recognizing the potential of the NRG Trail and for their unwavering support in promoting infrastructure projects that prioritize sustainability and equity.”
“I am grateful to the US Dept. of Transportation, our State and Federal delegations, the Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments, and our partnering towns, Naugatuck, Watertown, and Thomaston, for their support of this application. The $5,725,669 RAISE grant award will fund planning and design for a critical aspect of the Naugatuck River Greenway Trail to reconnect historically disadvantaged neighborhoods by expanding community connectivity and access. It will have a significant impact on the Naugatuck Valley planning region and advance the region’s priorities of safety, equity, workforce job quality, and wealth creation,” said Mayor Paul Pernerewski of Waterbury.
"We are deeply appreciative of Congresswoman Hayes and NVCOG for their dedication and vision in making these transformative projects a reality," said Mark A. Raimo, Watertown Town Manager. "Their support is pivotal in promoting health, connectivity, and economic vitality in our community."