$30 Million to Improve State Parks & Forests

October 28, 2024


Governor Lamont has announced $30 million in state bonding will go toward improving our state parks and forests. The funding will support much-needed infrastructure repairs and renovations across Connecticut, including $110,000 for new decking and maintenance to the Marsh Bridge at Silver Sands State Park as well as improvements to the roadway and parking lots at Wilcox Park.

$3 million of that statewide investment will fund urgent repairs at state parks that were damaged in historic floods in August. The storm caused significant damage to:
This funding supports the Restore CT State Parks initiative, which is an historic effort by the Lamont administration and the state legislature to address the backlog of needed repairs. Since 2022, the state has committed more than $70 million of American Rescue Plan Act and state bond funds to support investment in outdoor recreation.
Click here for a list of projects in our state parks system
Improving our parks and forests will benefit everyone in the state. Access to parks promotes physical fitness by providing opportunities for hiking, biking, jogging, and so much more. The outdoors also helps to improve mental health by reducing stress and anxiety. Additionally, parks provide recreational spaces where families can come together. Ultimately, this investment will increase the quality of life while preserving Connecticut’s natural beauty.