Town Gets State Aid For Epoch Arts Space

Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) grants to ten Connecticut towns engaged in capital improvement projects, including East Hampton, where work is being done to improve infrastructure, revitalize public spaces, and create jobs.

“STEAP grants are an excellent example of how state and local government partnerships can make meaningful improvements that directly benefit residents,” said Governor Malloy. “As we work to rebuild roads, repair bridges, and strengthen business centers in towns across the state, we are making Connecticut more competitive and a better place to work and live.”

East Hampton received a $250,000 STEAP award to replace the roof of the Epoch Arts building and allow expansion of programming. Epoch Arts is a nonprofit organization that offers programs in film, music, theater, and art for youths in grades K-12.  The building is on the historic registry and was a former brownfield site. It is now a model for development for other vacant factories and brownfield sites.

“It is through public/private partnerships like these that we will begin to see economic development, the support of our local youth, and the creation of East Hampton as one of the best places to live in Connecticut,” said Town Manager Michael Maniscalco. “We are all very appreciative of the support and look forward to the beginning of many partnerships to come.”