For decades, heavy rain has brought flooded streets, water-filled yards, and costly property damage to New Britain’s Allen Street neighborhood. Now, town and state leaders say a long-awaited solution is finally moving forward.
Officials announced nearly $14 million in funding for flood-control and infrastructure upgrades designed to address chronic flooding that has impacted residents for years.
“This only takes one mega storm to really hurt us here,” said resident Frank Chase.
Chase said he and his neighbors have repeatedly dealt with flooding surrounding their homes during heavy storms.
“We’re surrounded on four sides with flooding water,” Chase said. “It’s like living in a houseboat here, which is totally unacceptable.”
The flooding has also taken a financial toll.
“We spent $46,000 in mitigating efforts here,” Chase said. “Most of it was the trench work, 575 feet of trench work, protecting our foundations, our whole property, trying to manage the flood water.”
State and local officials announced funding that includes $6.9 million from the state, $6 million in local funding and $1 million in federal aid.
The money will fund a series of infrastructure improvements, including a new stormwater system, water line upgrades, and roadway improvements throughout the neighborhood.
“If we had a heavy rain earlier this morning, we could not be standing here,” said state Rep. Dave DeFronzo. “This entire area would be a standing small pond of water for a significant period of time.”
Officials said residents impacted by flooding may also qualify for up to $2,500 to help cover damage repairs and reconstruction costs.
Connecticut State Comptroller Sean Scanlon said the state is committed to helping families who have spent years dealing with the effects of flooding.
“I know that there are some folks out there that have been waiting for this day for a long time,” Scanlon said. “We’re going to do everything we can to make sure that every single person in this neighborhood gets the relief that they need and the help that they need.”
Chase said he welcomed the announcement and is eager to see work begin.
“We know it’s a long, complex process, but we need to keep the ball rolling,” Chase said.
Construction on the new infrastructure project is expected to begin next year and take approximately two to three years to complete.
