During a recent government meeting, city officials discussed the Reconnecting Communities pilot program, focusing on the I-91 Neighborhood Reconnection Initiative. The proposal, presented by Director Brown and Alder Jamie Smith, aims to secure a federal grant of up to $2 million to enhance safety and connectivity in areas impacted by the construction of the I-91 corridor.

The initiative seeks to address historical injustices caused by urban renewal and highway construction, which displaced residents and disrupted neighborhoods. The grant will fund planning efforts to create safer pedestrian connections and mitigate the physical and social divides created by the highway infrastructure. Key areas identified for improvement include Union Station, Long Wharf, and various underpasses along I-91.

Alder Smith emphasized the collaborative effort behind the proposal, which involved multiple city departments and community organizations. The planning grant will facilitate community engagement sessions to gather input from residents on how to enhance safety and connectivity in their neighborhoods.

The funding structure requires a 20% local match, amounting to $600,000, which will be sourced from bond funds and existing urban act funds. Officials expressed optimism about the potential impact of the grant, highlighting the need for improved safety measures, particularly for children crossing busy highway access points.

The meeting underscored the importance of reconnecting communities and addressing the long-term effects of past urban planning decisions. City leaders are hopeful that the initiative will pave the way for a more connected and safer urban environment.