Funding Opportunity: Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Grant Program

The fiscal year (FY) 2024 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for Safe Streets and Roads for All grants is open. For more information, visit the US DOT website.

Deadlines vary by grant type:

  • May 16, 2024, 5 PM (EDT): Sole deadline for Implementation Grants. Deadline #2 for Planning and Demonstration Grants.
  • August 29, 2024, 5 PM (EDT): Deadline #3 for Planning and Demonstration Grants. NOFO closes.

For questions or application assistance, email Rich Donovan, Transportation Planning Director, at rdonovan@nvcogct.gov.

Community Canvassing Kinneytown Dam Removal Project

We will be canvassing with Save the Sound in Ansonia this upcoming Saturday, April 13, to connect with community members around the Kinneytown Dam Removal project and hear their thoughts and feedback on the project.

El próximo sábado, 13 de abril, realizaremos un sondeo con el Save the Sound en Ansonia para ponernos en contacto con los miembros de la comunidad en torno al proyecto de eliminación de la presa de Kinneytown y escuchar sus opiniones y comentarios sobre el proyecto.

PRESS RELEASE: In-Person and Virtual Public Meetings Scheduled to Discuss Active Transportation Plan for the Naugatuck Valley 

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 8, 2024 

Contact:
Desira Blanchard
Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments
203-489-0353
dblanchard@nvcogct.gov

In-Person and Virtual Public Meetings Scheduled to Discuss Active Transportation Plan for the Naugatuck Valley  

(Waterbury, CT) – The Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments (NVCOG) will be hosting two upcoming public meetings as part of an ongoing series to gather additional input for the development of the Naugatuck Valley Active Transportation Plan (NVATP). The NVCOG invites residents, business owners, transportation advocates, and local officials to participate. 

An in-person meeting is set to take place on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at 6:00 PM in Bristol Public Library’s Meeting Room #2, located at 5 High Street, Bristol, CT 06010. This gathering will feature a charrette which is an interactive workshop that allows participants to collaborate with professionals, share ideas, and explore innovative solutions. During the session, the NVCOG staff will provide an overview of the NVATP, and participants will have the chance to actively participate and contribute their ideas, suggestions, and concerns to help shape the plan. Pizza and refreshments will be available. RSVP by emailing Desira Blanchard at dblanchard@nvcogct.gov. 

A virtual meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at 6:00 PM on Zoom. Join the meeting by using the link at https://bit.ly/3TQVLJq. Individuals with limited internet access can listen to the meeting by calling +1 929 205 6099 and entering the Meeting ID when prompted: 838 1800 0864. 

The purpose of the Naugatuck Valley Active Transportation Plan is to create a multi-modal framework that encourages and accommodates various forms of non-motorized transportation, including walking, rolling, cycling and other active modes. Once completed, the plan will serve as a comprehensive roadmap to help guide future infrastructure investments that improve the access, comfort and safety of pedestrians and cyclists.  

The NVCOG has released an online survey to examine habits, preferences, and challenges to walking/rolling and cycling in the community at https://arcg.is/yKyKW. Residents of the Naugatuck Valley planning region are strongly encouraged to participate.   

Language assistance is available to the public at no cost. For language assistance requests contact Desira Blanchard, Communications and Community Engagement Coordinator with the Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments, at dblanchard@nvcogct.gov or at 203-757-0535. Requests should be made at least 5 business days prior to the meeting.  

To learn more about the Naugatuck Valley Active Transportation Plan and stay engaged in the process, visit https://bit.ly/NVActiveTransportationPlan.  

Event Flyer April 23, 2024 (PDF)

Event Flyer April 30, 2024 (PDF)

Funding Opportunity: 2024 Transportation Alternatives Program

The Transportation Alternatives Program provides funding to municipalities for transportation improvements, which includes: transit, transportation equity, safe routes to school, multi-use trails, and supporting transit dependent groups residing in low-income areas. This program requires a 20% non-federal local match. Funds are made available to the State through the FHWA and are administered by CTDOT. 

Project evaluation & selection will be completed in coordination with MetroCOG, WestCOG, CRCOG, NVCOG, & SCRCOG. Interested parties are requested to contact the NVCOG for their specific urban area interest sheet before completing an application or taking any additional steps. Submit project proposal to NVCOG by April 26, 2024. Complete applications will need to be submitted to CTDOT by June 28, 2024.

For questions about the program, or assistance with applications, please contact Rich Donovan, Transportation Planning Director, at rdonovan@nvcogct.gov.

Solicitation Memo – CT DOT

Solicitation Letter – FHWA

 

Funding Opportunity: Active Transportation Microgrant Program

The NVCOG is accepting applications for the CTDOT Active Transportation Microgrant program. This program is designed to assist schools, school districts, municipalities, and non-profit organizations encourage walking, rolling, or biking across the state. Eligible expenses include bikes, bike maintenance equipment, training, and safety materials.  

This program is supported entirely with state funds, and eligible entities can submit requests of up to $5,000. Applications can be submitted at any time to the NVCOG by email to Rich Donovan, Transportation Planning Director, at rdonovan@nvcogct.gov. For questions about the program, or assistance with applications, please contact Tayo Olaleye, Transportation Planner, at eolaleye@nvcogct.gov.

PRESS RELEASE: VTD2GO Micro Transit Service Rolls Out on April 1st.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 27, 2024

Contact:
Richard Donovan
Transportation Planning Director
Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments
203-757-0535
rdonovan@nvcogct.gov

VTD2GO Microtransit Service Rolls Out on April 1st.

Derby, CT – Valley Transit District is pleased to announce the launch of its new micro transit service, VTD2GO, which will be available to users beginning April 1, 2024. The on-demand service will be offered Monday through Friday from 5:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., providing convenient transportation options for people commuting within a defined service area in Derby, Ansonia, and Shelton, CT. The service area map is available at www.valleytransit.org/vtd2go-micro-transit.

Microtransit is a flexible on-demand transportation service that operates like a cross between ride-sharing and traditional public transit. The service will provide residents and visitors with a flexible and affordable transportation option with rides priced at just $2 per trip. To kick off the program, the first ride will be free for all passengers. To use the microtransit service, riders can download the “VTD2GO” app (available on Apple iOS & Google Play) or call the designated phone number at 203-735-6408 to schedule a ride.

The VTD2GO service, provided in partnership with VIA Mobility LLC, aims to fill transportation gaps and increase accessibility for riders, particularly during evening hours, in a service area where no other options exist. The service will complement existing bus routes and transit hubs by providing seamless connections to CT Transit, Greater Bridgeport Transit, and Metro North services.

“We are excited to introduce this much needed service to our community”, said Mark Pandolfi, Executive Director of Valley Transit District. “This initiative reflects our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our riders and enhancing overall transit accessibility.”

The microtransit program is currently scheduled to operate through April of 2025. For questions and more information about Valley Transit District and its VTD2GO service, please visit www.valleytransit.org/vtd2go-micro-transit or call the office phone number at 203-735-6824. Funding for this new service is provided by The Connecticut Department of Transportation.

About Valley Transit District

Valley Transit District (VTD) is a public transit district that has been providing paratransit services since 1971, including paratransit services and ADA paratransit services for the New Haven CT Transit fixed route service. VTD also provides non-ADA Dial-A-Ride services to member municipalities in Ansonia, Derby, Seymour, and Shelton, operates the Bridgeport Ave Commuter Shuttle, and has contracts with various social services agencies. VTD’s drivers, dispatchers, and maintenance staff are professionally trained and are members of the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU). The company places a strong emphasis on passenger safety, customer service and compliance with State and Federal laws and regulations, including the American with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Click to download

News Release: Governor Lamont Announces Launch of Microtransit Services in Connecticut

Click here to access the press release from the office of Governor Ned Lamont

Published on March 25, 2024

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto today announced that new microtransit services will begin in various communities throughout Connecticut between March 26, 2024, and July 30, 2024. These services are part of a pilot program in which nine transit districts and municipalities were awarded funding through the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) to develop and pilot on-demand microtransit service.

Microtransit service is an accessible, on-demand mode of transportation that allows customers to use a smartphone app or telephone number to request and schedule a ride within designated service areas. The pilot program will last for two years with the possibility of two one-year extensions exercisable by CTDOT, based on performance and ridership. 

“This new program will help seniors and people with disabilities travel in parts of our state that have historically been underserved by public transportation,” Governor Lamont said. “These services allow people to use an app or phone number to request and schedule a ride within designated areas, connecting them to restaurants, entertainment, rail stations, airports, and critical services.” 

“Microtransit brings public transportation to communities that have lacked fixed route bus service,” Commissioner Eucalitto said. “Thank you to Governor Ned Lamont and the state legislature for the continued investment in high-quality public transportation that eliminates gaps between communities and increases access and mobility throughout our state.” 

On-demand microtransit services will begin on a staggered basis in the following locations: 

Starting March 26, 2024

  • Norwalk Transit District: Serving Norwalk. 

Starting April 1, 2024 

  • Greater Hartford Transit: Serving Enfield and portions of East Windsor.
  • Southeast Area Transit (SEAT): Serving Groton.
  • Southeast Area Transit (SEAT): Serving New London.
  • Valley Transit District: Serving the Ansonia Train Station, Derby, and Shelton. 

Starting April 6, 2024

  • Southeast Area Transit (SEAT): Stonington HOP, additional service hours on existing services to include Saturday service. 

Starting April 8, 2024 

  • Milford Transit: Serving Milford. 

Starting April 22, 2024

  • Greater Bridgeport Transit: Serving Trumbull. 

Starting May 6, 2024 

  • Southeast Area Transit (SEAT): New London Smart: Service to include late night service on existing microtransit services.
  • Southeast Area Transit (SEAT): Serving Waterford. 

Starting May 28, 2024

  • River Valley Transit (Estuary Transit): Serving Madison, Guilford, and portions of East Hampton and Middletown. 

Starting July 1, 2024

  • City of Stamford: Serving a five-mile boundary within the city. 

Starting July 30, 2024 

  • City of New Haven: Serving the Hill, West River, Dwight, Edgewood, Beaver Hills, and West Rock neighborhoods with connections to existing transit services. 

In addition to this new pilot program, existing microtransit services in Connecticut include XtraMile (River Valley Transit), Wheels 2U Norwalk and Wheels 2U Westport (Norwalk Transit District), and New London Smart Ride and Stonington HOP Service (Southeast Area Transit District).

For more information on all of Connecticut’s microtransit services, visit portal.ct.gov/dot/publictrans/bureau-of-public-transportation/microtransit-services. 

The latest episode of Along the Lines, a podcast produced by CTDOT, discusses the pilot program and the benefits and transformative potential of microtransit in shaping the future of public transportation in Connecticut. This episode can be accessed at www.alongthelinesct.com.

FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS
860-594-3062
CTDOTMedia@ct.gov

PRESS RELEASE: The NVCOG is Hosting a Backyard Composter and Rain Barrel Sale at the Seymour Community Center 

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 21, 2024 

Contact:
Aaron Budris
Environmental Planning Director
Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments
abudris@nvcogct.gov

The NVCOG is Hosting a Backyard Composter and Rain Barrel Sale at the Seymour Community Center  

The Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments (NVCOG) is offering backyard composters, rain barrels, and related accessories at wholesale prices to residents of the Naugatuck Valley Region. Residents can pre-order at the NVCOG online store (connecticut.compostersale.com/nvcog2/) through Thursday, May 2, 2024. Please note that items will not be sold at the event; this is a pick-up event only. Items will be available for pick-up on Saturday, May 4, 2024, between 10 am – 1 pm at the Seymour Community Center, 20 Pine Street, Seymour, CT.  

Backyard composters are a great way for residents to turn food and yard waste into valuable compost that can be used to amend soil for vegetables, flowers, and lawns. Composting complements principles from the food waste diversion pilots that were recently undertaken with CT DEEP grants in four Naugatuck Valley municipalities. Rain barrels can provide a reliable source of chemical free water for outdoor uses such as watering lawns and gardens by collecting rainwater. Over the last three years, Naugatuck Valley residents have purchased 248 composters, representing the maximum possible capacity to remove an estimated 124,000 lbs. of organics from the regional waste stream annually, as well as 206 rain barrels.    

In providing these products at affordable prices and promoting their use to residents, the NVCOG strives to help communities reduce the volume and cost of municipal solid waste disposal by diverting organics from the waste stream and help conserve drinking water by providing an alternative water source for outdoor needs. The public is encouraged to visit the NVCOG webpage for more information and resources on backyard composting, including a video of an informational workshop with a Master Composter.   

Public Information Meeting Open House – City of Waterbury RAISE Projects

On behalf of the City of Waterbury and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), you are invited to a public open house for the City of Waterbury RAISE projects on Thursday, April 4, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

The City of Waterbury received a RAISE Grant from FHWA to undertake projects in the downtown Waterbury area that are intended to improve mobility and connectivity. The City is developing designs for Phase 2 of the Waterbury Greenway Trail as well as pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicular improvements along West Main Street, and the installation of two electric vehicle charging stations at the Waterbury Train Station.

Please join us for a Public Information Meeting on Thursday, April 4, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM to learn about the project and provide comments. The open house will be held in-person at: City Hall, 2nd Floor Veteran’s Memorial Hall 235 Grand Street Waterbury, CT 06702.

There is a meeting flyer attached with additional information. You can also visit the project’s website for more information at https://www.waterburyct.org/RAISE.

We hope to see you at the public open house on Thursday, April 4, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Thank you!

Meeting Flyer (PDF)

PRESS RELEASE: Household Hazardous Waste and Paint Collection Scheduled for Saturday, April 27 in Ansonia

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 19, 2024 

Contact:
NVCOG
203-757-0535
https://nvcogct.gov/HHW

Household Hazardous Waste and Paint Collection Scheduled for Saturday, April 27 in Ansonia 

Do you have paints, cleaners, and other chemicals in your home that you need to dispose of? The Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments (NVCOG) and participating municipalities will sponsor a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) and Paint Collection event on Saturday, April 27, 2024. The collection will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Ansonia Public Works facility, located at 1 North Division Street, Ansonia, CT 06401. 

The collection is open to residents of the following communities: Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethlehem, Derby, Middlebury, Naugatuck, Oxford, Prospect, Seymour, Southbury, Thomaston, Waterbury, Watertown, Wolcott, and Woodbury. There is no charge to residents. Proof of residency, such as a driver’s license, tax bill, or other identification, is required for entry. There is no need to line up before the 8 a.m. start time. 

Hazardous waste consists of poisonous, flammable, and corrosive materials that are harmful to human health if not disposed of properly. The only waste that will be accepted is hazardous waste produced by households. Materials generated by a commercial enterprise or non-profit entity will not be accepted. A full list of acceptable and unacceptable materials can be viewed at nvcogct.gov/hhw.  

Examples of wastes that will be accepted include:  oil- and latex-based paints and stains, thermometers and thermostats containing mercury, drain and oven cleaners, upholstery cleaners, wood cleaners, strippers and varnishes, pesticides, poisons, pool and photo chemicals, automotive cleaners and fluids, gasoline and motor oil, grease and rust solvents, aerosols, and metal polishes. 

Items that will not be accepted include: auto batteries, propane tanks over 1 lb., compressed gas cylinders, asbestos, smoke detectors, explosives, radioactive or medical waste, grout, joint compound, lead paint chips, and empty containers of any kind.  Aerosol containers will not be accepted unless they contain a non-paint chemical. Empty aerosols that contain food products can be recycled. Full or partially full spray paint, full or partially full food products, and empty chemical aerosol containers can be placed in the trash. The contractor reserves the right to reject additional materials.  

Up to 50 lbs. of residential waste will be accepted per vehicle. Residents should leave materials in the original container whenever possible. When arriving at the collection site, residents must remain in their cars at all times. Trained waste handlers will remove materials from the cars. 

Unacceptable materials will be returned or left in the vehicle and information, if known, will be provided on how to dispose of them. For further information, please contact hhw@nvcogct.gov or call (203) 757-0535.