House Republican Press Release

October 6, 2006

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Gov. Rell, Reps Ferrari, Fahrbach: $400,000 Grant Approved for East Granby Farms Project

The State Bond Commission has approved a $400,000 grant to help East Granby complete the East Granby Farms Project, Governor M. Jodi Rell and state Representatives Richard F. Ferrari, R- 62^nd District, and Ruth C. Fahrbach, R-61^st District, announced today.

The funding, which comes from the state’s Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP), was approved today’s Bond Commission meeting.

“The completion of East Granby Farms will be the town’s largest recreational open space and recreational area,” Governor Rell said. “Of the 480 acres of land, 410 acres will remain as open space and the remaining land will be used for recreational and community events.

“In East Granby and in towns across Connecticut, we are investing in projects that will be community assets.  East Granby Farms will serve the broad needs of all residents and will accommodate the demands of a growing population.  It will also draw visitors to town who may have never come to East Granby in the past.  East Granby Farms will be a regional magnet for many years, and I am proud to allocate these funds to see it become reality,” Governor Rell said.

“This is a wise investment in East Granby’s future,” Representative Ferrari said.  “This project will enhance the quality of life in East Granby, broaden the recreational opportunities available to our young families and provide additional facilities where community groups can meet.  We were all pleased to work with Governor Rell to secure this funding, and we greatly appreciate her support for this important project.”

“One of the keys to preserving East Granby’s heritage and character has been to build modern facilities to accommodate town residents both young and old,” Representative Fahrbach said. “Governor Rell has heard our voices and I am delighted she has approved these funds.”

The project includes 70 acres that includes barns and farmhouses that are to be developed to provide much needed active recreational and community facilities.  The town received $500,000 for the project in fiscal year 2003. However because of higher than anticipated bids, additional state funding was needed.  The funds will be used to renovate the interior of the Sears House and the storage garage and construct a Four Seasons building where senior and civic activities will be held.

A total of $20 million was authorized for more than 100 small towns under the STEAP program this fiscal year.