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Much-Needed Improvements

For years, I have led efforts at the State Capitol to secure funding to upgrade the traffic signal on Messina Drive because of safety concerns expressed by residents about the signal’s timing issues. I often jog around that area, and I’ve experienced firsthand the unreliable signalization, the worn-out sidewalks, and the lack of traffic calming measures that make crossing Messina Drive difficult.

I am proud that, after years of lobbying at the Capitol, the State of Connecticut recently awarded the Town of East Haven a grant totaling $781,004 to upgrade the traffic signal and install much-needed accessibility and walkway improvements on Messina Drive.

A bipartisan group of local and state leaders, including senators Paul Cicarella and Christine Cohen and Mayor Joseph Carfora, lent their voices to help secure this funding. However, in the final hours of the 2024 legislative session, when it looked like the project might fall just short again, Minority Leader Vincent Candelora leveraged his resources to help push this important project over the finish line. Although obtaining this grant money was a “pet project” of mine, it was a truly bipartisan effort that got it across the finish line this legislative session.

Local leaders have “shovel-ready” plans for this project, and improvements can begin once the town finalizes its local coordination efforts. I look forward to seeing this project begin because it will not only make Messina Drive a safer area, but the planned upgrades will make it easier for the residents of Messina Drive to safely access the many wonderful retail, food, medical, and leisure facilities located in the center of town.

Joe Zullo

East Haven

Joe Zullo is the incumbent state representative for the 99th Assembly District.