August 19, 2011
MANCHESTER DELEGATION HAILS FUNDS FOR NEIGHBORHOOD UPGRADE
State Bond Commission expected to approve $300,000 for new sidewalks
State Representatives Geoff Luxenberg (D-Manchester), Jason Rojas and Jack Thompson (D- Manchester) announced the expected approval of $300,000 by the State Bonding Commission next Friday, August 26th for improvements in the Buckley Elementary School District. The funds will be used to complete Phase 3 of the Green Manor Neighborhood sidewalk replacement in the north end of Manchester. The first two phases of the over seven-mile sidewalk replacement were completed by the town of Manchester.
“These sidewalks are in serious need of replacement, many original to 1950’s era housing,” said Rep. Luxenberg. “When we went door to door during my first campaign to represent the north-end of Manchester in the State House - people told me they wanted two things - jobs and better sidewalks - and now thanks to this delegation and Governor Malloy - we have delivered both. The feedback has been nothing but positive.”
Construction of the final phase is anticipated to begin toward the end of summer and completion is expected to take three months and wrap up before the end of the construction season. The project funding will provide six to eight construction positions.
“I would l like to thank Governor Malloy for his support of this project and Rep. Luxemberg for taking the lead on securing these funds for the Green Manor neighborhood,” said Rep. Rojas. “The replacement of sidewalks is usually something we take for granted but it’s been my experience that proper maintenance of sidewalks leads to a higher quality of life for residents, reduced costs over the long run and a reduction in tripping accidents which can lead to costly litigation for the town”
The sidewalks will be standard concrete and are anticipated to last another 60 years. They will be a foot wider (5.5 feet) than the old sidewalks with intersections ADA compliant with ramps. Local drainage issues will be addressed as well.
“We’re excited about the opportunity to complete phase 3 of the sidewalk replacements thanks to the funding from the state,” said Mark Carlino, Director of Public Works in Manchester. “We completed phase one last year and will complete phase two within a month.”