House Republican Press Release

October 6, 2006

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Gov. Rell, Rep. Piscopo: $70,000 Grant Approved for Football, Soccer Field Lighting In Burlington

The State Bond Commission has approved a $70,000 grant for new lighting for the soccer and football fields at the Nassahegan Recreation Complex on Punch Brook Road, Governor M. Jodi Rell and state Representative John E. Piscopo, R-76^th District, announced today.

The funding, which was approved at today’s (October 6, 2006) Bond Commission meeting, comes from the state’s Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP).

“This is a smart investment for the town,” Governor Rell said. “Burlington is growing in population and must find ways to make the most out of its recreational resources. This new lighting system will do just that, and it will do so in a tasteful, thoughtful manner.”

“Throughout the state, we have been asking cities and towns what we can do to help them meet their growing needs for recreational land use. I know that in Burlington, this project is one that the community has really rallied around, and I think it will really help improve the quality of life in town,” the governor said.

“I was pleased to work with Governor Rell to secure this grant for Burlington,” Representative Piscopo said. “This is an important project for the town that will enable us to maximize use of the soccer and football fields at the Nassahegan Recreation Complex. We wanted to make sure that the lighting issue was dealt with as soon as possible, and Governor Rell heard us loud and clear. This is great news.”

The proposed lights meet Federal Dark Sky legislation requirements and they represent the most energy efficient technology that exists today. The lighting system reduces operating costs by 50 percent over earlier technology. The lights will be fitted with aluminum visors to control light spillage and glare. The project includes a 25-year warranty on parts and labor, including light bulbs. 

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