Governor Dannel Malloy announced that the state is providing $394,350 in a Small Town Economic Assistance Program grant to fund an ADA-accessible concession stand at Cross Farms Recreation Complex, which will include handicap-accessible bathrooms.

Malloy spoke at Cross Farms this morning and said that he found Tolland's ADA-accessible project to be an exciting proposal, so he made sure that the state helped "to bring this town's vision of the complex to life."

"As soon as I became aware of that [ADA-accessibility] as part of the project, I wanted to make sure that the state was a part of it," he said. "That's so important."

Malloy also said that the state is selecting projects that can begin work relatively quickly.

"We're looking for projects that will move forward in a timely manner," he said.

Town Chairperson Jack Scavone spoke about how the project is important to the community.

"This complex is a very important piece of this park," he said. "It's a cornerstone of this community."

The multi-use concession stand will complement the work of Adam's Adventure, a group fundraising to build a handicap-accessible playground, inspired by local Tolland child Adam Mlodzinski.

"I think this is going to give us more momentum," said Adam's Adventure member Alison Knybel. "It's going to raise awareness that the town is really committed to developing the park further."

Adam's mother, Kate Mlodzinski, agreed that the grant was "huge" for the town and Adam's Adventure.

Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman and State Rep. Bryan Hurlburt were also present at the announcement this morning.

"I hope that everybody will take advantage of this facility," Hurlburt said. 

"This is going to be a wonderful place to bring your children," Wyman added.

Director of Human Services Beverly Bellody wrote the grant application in May 2011. According to Bellody, the entire cost of the project will come to $434,040. She said the town will provide $39,690 for design services.