Community Connectivity, Pedestrian Access and Safety
The Town of Vernon has been awarded a $400,000 grant through the Community Connectivity Grant Program administered by the Connecticut Department of Transportation. The program's intent is to improve pedestrian safety and mobility in the Rockville center area of Vernon.
Potential improvements were identified through a Road Safety Audit conducted by town and state representatives. The Town has retained Tighe & Bond, Inc. as the engineer to design these improvements. The CCGP funded improvements represent Phase 1 of planned pedestrian safety and mobility improvements in the Rockville area.
The Phase 1 work envisioned for this project includes but is not limited to the removal, replacement, expansion and construction of sidewalks, sidewalk ramps, and crosswalks in the following areas:
- Vernon Ave
- West Main Street
- Brooklyn Street
Work would also include new striping for pedestrian walkways and yield signs in certain areas
The Town of Vernon is planning to construct the planned improvements using the CCGP funds beginning in early summer 2024.
Phase 2 will consist of the town pursuing Local Transportation Capital Improvements Program (LOTCIP) funding to improve multi-modal connectivity by extending the Vernon Rails-to-Trails system further east form its current terminus at Vernon Avenue. The town is also considering improvements along East Main Street in Rockville.
Conceptual designs for Phase 2 are in the works. If funding is received, work is expected to begin in spring 2025.