Newtown will receive a $500,000 Small Town Economic Assistance Program grant to help local businesses that incurred economic losses in the wake of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, according to Dannel Malloy.
Many area businesses were adversely impacted by weeks of road closures and having entrances blocked by excessive traffic and parking, according to Malloy, and the funding will be administered by Newtown.
“Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with everyone that was affected by the horrible events at Sandy Hook Elementary School,” Malloy said. “Even as we work toward broader reforms to better protect our communities, these STEAP funds will have an immediate impact on the regional economy and protect area jobs.”
“The Town of Newtown is very grateful to our state government, the Governor, and the Office of Policy and Management for taking quick action to assist us in support of our Sandy Hook businesses,” E. Patricia Llodra, First Selectman, said in a statement. “In the aftermath of the shootings, our businesses were essentially shut down by the volume of traffic and media preventing customers from getting to stores, services, and restaurants during the busiest shopping days of the year. On behalf of the town, we are appreciative of this extraordinary kindness and appreciation for our difficulties.”
The grant is funded through an Oct. 2012 allocation by State Bond Commission.
