The state Bond Commission at its meeting Tuesday approved $750,000 in transportation bond funding to cover "the next steps" for a commuter rail station in Niantic, State Rep. Ed Jutila, D-East Lyme announced.

Jutila said in a news release that he expects the funding will cover the cost of environmental permitting, a capacity analysis, and initial design work for the station. 

The state Department of Transportation previously conducted a feasibility study on the station. 

Jutila made the bonding request, which was part of the original budget presented by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy.

"Approval of this funding today is a huge step forward in our quest for a commuter rail station in Niantic," Jutila said in a statement. "I applaud Governor Malloy's leadership and thank the members of the state Bond Commission for their support of this important initiative for our region."

Malloy said in a statement that "crucial investments to improve our infrastructure" are necessary to grow the state's economy.

"Creating a commuter rail station in Niantic on the Shore Line East system will further provide transit access to area residents, more easily connecting them to business and employment opportunities, among other benefits," he said.