Federal funding is crucial for regional planning organizations like the Capitol Region Council of Governments (CRCOG) and our member municipalities. These funds are pivotal in shaping our infrastructure, public safety, and economic future. Without these funds, our ability to plan and implement key projects would be significantly hampered.
This past month, East Windsor First Selectman and CRCOG Board member Jason Bowsza and I had the opportunity to attend the National Conference of Regions in Washington, D.C. The conference was sponsored by the National Association of Regional Councils (NARC) and provided us with the opportunity to network with our peers and to learn from experts across a wide variety of policy areas.
While in D.C., Bowsza and I met with U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, U.S. Rep. Jahana Hayes, and with the staff from Sen. Chris Murphy, Reps. John Larson and Joe Courtney’s offices. During those meetings, we emphasized the importance of federal funds for our region and how we were putting those funds to work to benefit our residents and taxpayers. We also expressed our thanks to our federal delegation for their leadership and advocacy on behalf of our communities.
Transforming America’s infrastructure
Federal transportation planning funds help metropolitan planning organizations like CRCOG support regional transportation and transit planning. With Congress’s support, the federal government has ramped up its investment in critical infrastructure like roads, bridges, fiber, and water and wastewater systems. Major federal grant programs under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Inflation Reduction Act, and Congressionally directed spending are proving transformative, enabling states, regions, and municipalities across the country to apply directly for funding to address long-standing infrastructure challenges.
As of February 2025, federal agencies have awarded $473.3 million for 76 state, local and other projects in CRCOG’s region. Under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law alone, public entities in the CRCOG region have secured over $447 million in discretionary grants, with $51.4 million going directly to local governments. These investments are driving critical projects that will benefit our residents for decades to come. Some key infrastructure awards in our region include:
- Hartford Line Rail Expansion: $287 million in combined federal grants for double-tracking and service improvements.
- Berlin Turnpike Transportation Study: A $2 million RAISE grant to improve corridor safety and efficiency.
- City Link Reconnecting Hartford Initiative: A $2 million project to address mobility equity and urban connectivity.
Strengthening public safety and emergency preparedness
Federal funding also ensures Connecticut remains prepared for emergencies. CRCOG administers Department of Homeland Security funds through the State Homeland Security Grant Program, providing critical training, emergency planning, and equipment for first responders. These funds support the Hartford Bomb Squad, soft target protection, and election security initiatives. CRCOG also administers the Emergency Management Performance Grant to fund training and equipment for the Capitol Region HAZMAT team.
Originally posted in CT Mirror on March 27, 2025
