TOLLAND, CT — The cost of constructing new sidewalks along a key stretch of Route 195 in Tolland is projected to be $1.61 million, according to the latest estimate presented to town officials.

The estimate was included in the most recent Tolland Town Council meeting packet, with the council scheduled to discuss the project at its upcoming meeting on May 13 at 7 p.m.

The initiative is part of an ongoing collaboration between the Town of Tolland and Cardinal Engineering, which is working to finalize a concept plan and detailed cost estimate for the proposed sidewalks. The project would extend sidewalks from the Town Green all the way to the Interstate 84 ramps, filling in gaps and creating a continuous pedestrian pathway.

While parts of the route currently have sidewalks in place, town officials said the goal is to establish a uniform, accessible network that complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and improves pedestrian safety — especially near the busy I-84 interchange.

“The plans presented at the council meeting represent the preferred design, as reviewed by town staff and CRCOG,” officials explained.

In addition to improving accessibility, the proposed sidewalks aim to support foot traffic in Tolland’s town center and encourage walkability in an area that sees both local residents and highway travelers.

According to town officials, property owners along the proposed project corridor have shown support for the plan, signaling a positive outlook for the project’s advancement.

To cover the cost of construction, the town intends to apply for funding through the Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program (LOTCIP) this fall. The funding application will be submitted via the Capitol Region Council of Governments (CRCOG), which would then forward it to the Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) for review and approval.

Under the proposed funding structure, Tolland would be responsible for the design and planning costs, while the DOT would cover the construction costs in full. This arrangement could allow the town to move forward without directly bearing the multimillion-dollar construction bill.

Once funding is secured, the next steps would include finalizing designs, obtaining necessary permits, and coordinating with state agencies. Town officials emphasized that the project would also prioritize safe pedestrian crossings at key intersections, including near I-84 on- and off-ramps.

If approved, the sidewalk expansion could help connect residential neighborhoods, businesses, and civic spaces, aligning with broader goals for pedestrian-friendly infrastructure in Tolland.

The May 13 council meeting is expected to provide further insights into the timeline, design specifics, and potential next steps for the project.

Originally reported by Chris Dehnel in Patch.