Committee backs grant applications to revitalize Barnard Nature Center and add an accessible trail in East Rock Park

The City Services & Environmental Policy Committee unanimously approved two park grant actions Thursday designed to improve access and programming at Barnard Nature Center and to add an accessible trail in the College Woods area of East Rock Park.

Parks Director Max Webster told alderpersons the Barnard proposal seeks funding to build multiuse path connections, create an elevated boardwalk and improve river access, and noted the grant request is for up to $334,500 through a Connecticut DEEP urban green/community gardens program. The total project budget discussed included capital funds and other matches; Webster said the larger project total would be shaped after design and state agreements.

On College Woods, the department applied to DEEP's recreation trails program for $277,730 to construct an accessible loop and to plan connections that would later link to a Mill River Trail proposal. Webster said the city would use ARPA dollars for the local match and that the design will include tree-protection standards and community engagement on routing and surfaces.

Alders asked about maintenance costs and surfacing; Webster said the primary ongoing cost would be electricity for lighting and periodic trail maintenance, and that the College Woods section would use asphalt for accessibility with softer surfaces in other riverfront sections. The committee approved both grant-related items by voice vote.

Next steps: if awarded, staff will complete design, pursue community engagement required by the grants, and return to the committee for any required city approvals for construction and match commitments.