Joan Hartley

Hartley Welcomes State Funds for Waterbury Housing, Stadium Upgrades

State Senator Joan V. Hartley (D-Waterbury) today announced final approval for—and allocation of—state funding to assist with two Waterbury projects. One grant—for $1.38 million—will result in ten, new, three-bedroom rental units to increase the city’s housing stock; the second grant—for $250,000—will help complete ongoing improvements at Waterbury Municipal Stadium.

Each item appeared on the agenda for today’s meeting of the State Bond Commission and each received final approval at that time. Senator Hartley said each grant is to be administered by the state Department of Economic and Community Development.

“I’m delighted by the prospects for this grant to Neighborhood Housing Services of Waterbury, to help with construction costs for 30 new rental units on a now-vacant lot on North Main Street,” Senator Hartley said. “The plan is to make these units available to renters with income substantially below the area median, so it helps vulnerable people secure a roof over their heads, and it puts an underutilized parcel back into productive use.”

Senator Hartley said construction of these apartments is also projected to create 30 or more construction-related jobs.

“The 6,000-seat Municipal Stadium first opened in Waterbury in 1930 and now, 80-plus years later, is in the process of a comprehensive upgrade in terms of lighting, seating, and general building improvements,” Senator Hartley said. “I’m grateful to Governor Malloy and other members of the bond commission for their consideration of this allocation.”

The grant for stadium upgrades will be provided to the Waterbury Development Corporation; the $250,000 considered earlier today represent the final installment of the $3.25 million originally authorized for the project.