Fairfield Receives $1.2 Million Grant For Bike and Pedestrian Improvements

The town of Fairfield received a $1.2 million grant for improvements to the Kings Highway East and Commerce Drive area.

The federally funded grant, which was recently approved by town bodies, was received from the Connecticut Department of Transportation through the Federal Transportation Alternatives Program and will enable the town to make improvements along Kings Highway East from Chambers Street to Brentwood Avenue.

The funding will be used to construct new sidewalks and curbs along both north and south sides, with median improvements for improved pedestrian access and aesthetics. There will also be ADA compliant handicap ramps installed at intersections. Bicycle amenities, such as bike racks, signs and bike parking will also be included, as well as possible bike routes, according to First Selectman Mike Tetreau.

The town applied for the grant following a public informational meeting held last June where requests were made to improve and encourage more walking and biking in this area.

Design for this project is expected to start Spring 2014 and be completed around October 2014. Construction should begin April 2015 with project completion around December 2015, according to Tetreau.