Board accepts state Urban Act funding for Wilcox Park/Founders Walk despite concerns over road alignment

The Milford Board of Aldermen voted 8–7 on March 3 to accept state Urban Act grant funding for the Wilcox Park / Founders Walk project, a roughly $3.65 million package the city says will add sidewalks, new parking geometry, storm‑water improvements and a redesigned roadway behind the library and Fowler Field.

The measure authorizes acceptance of state grant money and related cash advances tied to the project. State Senator James Maroney, who appeared at the meeting, told the board acceptance was required to begin work and to avoid the city paying for the improvements out of local revenue. “What you’re voting on tonight is to accept state money for the project,” Maroney said during his presentation; he gave a cost breakdown that included $365,000 for design, $2,862,000 for construction, $71,000 for a parking overlay and a $362,000 contingency.

The project drew extended public comment and sharply divided Aldermen. Supporters — including longtime users of Fowler Field, library patrons and the Oyster Festival committee — told the board the site needs better drainage and safer, continuous sidewalks. “The current drainage creates puddles and mud throughout the year,”…