The Town of Newington is proud to announce that we have been awarded a $485,611 Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) Grant to build a new, inclusive playground at Candlewyck Park. This project represents the second and final phase of park renovations at that location, following the completion of the new basketball courts two years ago.
This significant investment, announced today by Governor Ned Lamont, is part of a $30 million package distributed to 46 small towns across Connecticut for capital improvement projects focused on infrastructure, community development, and quality-of-life upgrades. The Candlewyck Park project will be matched by $121,365 in local funding, bringing the total project cost to $606,976.
“We are incredibly grateful to Governor Lamont and his staff for their support for this important infrastructure project,” said Mayor Jon Trister. “This grant will help establish a state-of-the-art playground and play space for the residents of the Candlewyck neighborhood. We are thrilled with this announcement!”
The new playground will feature inclusive, accessible play elements that ensure all children, regardless of ability, can enjoy a safe and engaging recreational experience. It also supports the Town’s long-term commitment to neighborhood revitalization and inclusive park access throughout Newington.
“The Newington Parks and Recreation Department happily announces that Governor Lamont and the State Legislature have awarded the Town of Newington this critical funding to replace the outdated playground equipment in the Lamplighter Lane area,” said Don Woods, Chairperson of the Parks and Recreation Board. “This grant allows us to move forward with the second and final stage of renovations at Candlewyck Park.”
The Town of Newington is also grateful for the steadfast support of its state delegation—Representative Gary Turco, Representative Kate Farrar, and Senator Matt Lesser—whose advocacy was essential in securing this important funding.
The Candlewyck Park project builds upon the Town’s ongoing work to enhance parks town wide. In recent years, the Town has completed major renovations at Mill Pond Park Playground, Churchill Park Playground, Clem Lemire Playground, Beacon Park Playground, Beechwood Park Playground, Eagle Park Playground, and Seymour Park Playground. Candlewyck Park is the next step in this strategic vision to modernize and expand recreational opportunities across the community.
For additional information on the Candlewyck Park Inclusive Playground or other ongoing projects, please contact the Newington Parks and Recreation Department at (860) 665-8666 or visit www.newingtonct.gov/parksandrec.