Sen. Duff Announces $4.5 Million in State Bonding for Norwalk Park Improvements
NORWALK – Today, Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) and Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling welcomed the State Bond Commission’s approval of a $4.5 million state investment in Norwalk’s public parks. Investments include a new synthetic baseball fields at Broad River Park, new fencing, lighting, benches and landscaping at Irving Freese Park, a new trash receptacle system at six town parks, and more improvements at the Ludlow Park, Veterans Memorial Park, and the Brookside Elementary School fields.
Sen. Duff worked with Norwalk parents and Mayor Harry Rilling to advocate for and secure the state funding after parents complained about the quality of the existing fields, the safety hazards they sometimes present, and the inability to play games during certain weather conditions.
“We’ve got 90,000 people in Norwalk, and that means a lot of families with kids playing sports and using town parks on a regular basis. Part of the joy of living in Connecticut and living in Norwalk is the very high quality of life that we have, and these state investments will help protect and improve that quality of life while simultaneously taking some of the responsibility of paying for this off of local residents,” Sen. Duff said. “I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission, along with my colleagues Senators Marty Looney, John Fonfara and Marilyn Moore, for always paying attention to the needs of Connecticut’s residents.”
“This funding reflects Governor Lamont and Senator Duff’s continued commitment to securing critical funding for the City of Norwalk’s Park System and prioritizes some of Norwalk’s treasures, such as our parks and green spaces,” said Mayor Rilling. “These funds will upgrade several of our sports fields, including the Broad River Synthetic Field baseball complex, and help beautify our landscapes by improving park amenities at Irving Freese Park. The funds will also replace playground equipment at Brookside Elementary School, Ludlow Park, and Veterans Park to increase safety and accessibility and enhance the city’s beautification and sustainability initiatives by enhancing our recycling and garbage efforts at our parks.”
A year ago, Norwalk unveiled plans to upgrade the baseball field complex at Broad River Park after parents complained that conditions there – hardened dirt in the infield, poor drainage, and uncut grass – posed a safety hazard to children. Improved fields at Broad River would not only fix those conditions, but also reduce costly maintenance and allow for the possibility of regional tournaments on the fields. Today’s state bonding funds will pay for about half of those needed improvements.
The Irving Freese Park will receive about a half-million dollars’ worth of new metal fencing, landscaping, lighting, and benches, and the Ludlow Park, Brookside Elementary School and Veterans Memorial Park will each receive upgrades as well.
Just as important, $1 million in state funding has allocated for the total replacement of Norwalk’s garbage receptacles at Veterans Park, Calf Pasture Beach, Cranbury Park, Oyster Shell Park, Fodor Farm, and Taylor Farm Dog Park. The new trash receptacles will be located side-by-side and labeled for garbage, recyclables, and compost. The state funding will also pay for a new mini-packer garbage truck and a large grass mower.
Senator Needleman Announces East Hampton Bond Funding For Centralized Water System Expansion
Senator Needleman Announces East Hampton Bond Funding For Centralized Water System Expansion
Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) announced that the town will receive $1.5 million from the State Bond Commission, after the Bond Commission’s approval of a funding release today, to support an expansion of the town’s centralized water system. The extension of East Hampton’s water system would help address long-existent water quality and water quantity issues seen in main parts of the town, including the local business district. Sen. Needleman played a key role in securing this funding’s release.
“I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support of our local community,” said Sen. Needleman. “Expanding the local centralized water system would play a significant role in improving water availability and service for residents and businesses around East Hampton, also ensuring that the town avoids issues such as groundwater contamination. I look forward to seeing the town advance this critical project.”
“Failure to maintain a safe water system can lead to tragedy and bring harm to a community, which is why releasing these funds is so important,” said Governor Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission. “By partnering with East Hampton on this project, we are delivering on that commitment to ensure that residents and businesses continue to have a reliable water system in the town.”
“Water availability and quality has been a long-time problem in East Hampton, and it has affected both businesses and residents. I’m thankful for Senator Needleman’s continued partnership with town leaders to address this community issue and for his work to get this state funding approved. It’s a big help to East Hampton’s efforts to improve community access to water and support economic development in the years to come,” said Pete Brown, a member of the East Hampton Town Council and chair of the town council’s subcommittee on water.
The State Bond Commission will commit $1.5 million to support the expansion of the East Hampton’s centralized water system. The town is in the process of starting preliminary design work including detailed survey and geological work and initial system design for implementing new water sources, water treatment, storage, and distribution. The work is slated to begin in the next six to 12 months.
This preliminary design work will help East Hampton address water quality and quantity issues experienced across the town, including the Village Center business district and Route 66 commercial corridor. The project lays the groundwork for an extension of the town’s centralized water system, which would benefit local businesses, residents, and continued community development.
Portland Delegation Announces Bond Funding For Riverfront Park Parking
Portland Delegation Announces Bond Funding For Riverfront Park Parking
Today, the Portland delegation including State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) and State Representative Christie Carpino (R-Portland) announced that the town will receive grant funding from the State Bond Commission to add parking access to the Portland Recreational Riverfront Park and Trail.
“I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support of local recreation,” said Sen. Needleman. “Parking access at Riverfront Park and Trail will provide significant improvements for walkers, joggers, bikers and everyone in the community looking to get some fresh air and enjoy our beautiful town.”
“The Connecticut River is an asset to Portland and the region. Increasing access to this natural resource will be a benefit for the entire community. I appreciate the Governor and my legislative colleagues for supporting this local initiative,” said Rep. Carpino.
“The Portland Riverfront is one of the most scenic and beautiful areas of Connecticut, and by releasing this state funding we can help ensure that the park is maintained and continues to be enjoyed by our residents for many years to come,” said Governor Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission.
“Thank you to Senator Needleman, Representative Carpino, Governor Lamont, and the State Bond Commission for their support of this project,” said Portland First Selectman Ryan Curley. “Parking access at Riverfront Park and Trail will one day enable residents to be able to participate in recreational activities that have been previously unfeasible. We are grateful to have representatives that see the full potential of our community.”
The State Bond Commission’s July 29 agenda lists $300,000 in grant funds for Portland for the addition of parking access to the Portland Recreational Riverfront Park and Trail, providing better accessibility and usage of the park and trail for the local community. Long-term goals for the site include installing a boat launch on the river.
Sen. McCrory Welcomes $5.5 Million for Supporting Hartford’s Youth, the Connecticut Convention Center, and Community Investment Projects
Sen. McCrory Welcomes $5.5 Million for Supporting Hartford’s Youth, the Connecticut Convention Center, and Community Investment Projects
Today, state Senator Doug McCrory (D-Hartford) celebrated the approval of $5.5 million by Governor Ned Lamont and the State Bond Commission to support several initiatives and organizations in Hartford. The collective funding will enhance recreational and enrichment opportunities for Hartford’s youth, upgrades to city attractions, economic development, and neighborhood historic preservation.
In particular, $500,000 each has been approved for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford and the YMCA of Greater Hartford. For the YMCA of Greater Hartford, the state funding will support capital improvements and upgrades at their Wilson-Gray YMCA location on Albany Avenue.
The state funding approved for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford (BGCH) will support the renovation of the Joseph D. Lapenta Northwest Boys & Girls Club. The renovated Boys & Girls Club in the northwest part of Hartford is planned to include a computer center, host a full-service gymnasium, and all-purpose areas available for community groups to use.
“We build a stronger city when we make across-the-board investments in community supports. Thank you to Governor Lamont, the State Bond Commission membership, and my partners in the Hartford legislative delegation and numerous community advocates for the collective effort to bring this tremendous state funding to Hartford,” said Sen. McCrory. “I’m especially excited for the investment that we are making in Hartford’s young leaders. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford and the YMCA of Greater Hartford go above and beyond to support recreational opportunities for our kids and helping them learn new skills.”
“The Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford and the YMCA of Greater Hartford provide invaluable services to the community, and I am glad that we can partner with these two organizations on this state funding, which will ensure that they continue to have the resources needed to provide youths with much-needed educational and recreational opportunities,” said Governor Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission.
“Each grant will help these community-based organizations move their important mission forward which will not only enhance the quality of life in the neighborhoods they are located, but benefit all residents throughout the City,” Speaker of the House Matt Ritter (D-Hartford) said. “I’m grateful for the work and support of my colleagues in the Hartford legislative delegation throughout the process to secure this important funding.”
“We are excited to receive this funding to make improvements to the Joseph D. Lapenta Boys & Girls Club,” said Sam Gray, President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford. “Our Clubs are needed now more than ever, and upgrading our Clubs gives the youth of Hartford a safe place to call their second home.”
“Senator McCrory is a longtime friend and advocate of the YMCA of Greater Hartford, understanding firsthand the impact our organization has on young lives throughout the area. I sincerely want to thank him and Governor Lamont for securing this funding for the Wilson-Gray YMCA, funding which will cover the cost of much-needed infrastructure improvements and help enhance our mission of building healthy minds, bodies and souls here in Hartford,” YMCA of Greater Hartford President and CEO Harold Sparrow said today.
The YMCA of Greater Hartford is dedicated to advancing youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. In 2018, the YMCA of Greater Hartford served over 108,000 children and families through educational and personal development programs. They are the largest provider of day and residential camping in the Hartford region, with 4,000 kids participating each summer. Further, they are the biggest provider of child care in Connecticut. More information can be found at www.ghymca.org.
The BGCH is dedicated to enabling all young people, especially those who need it most, to realize their full potential as caring, productive and responsible citizens. The organization serves over 10,000 youth per year through various programs including homework assistance and their financial literacy Money Matters program. More information about the BGCH can be found at www.bgchartford.org.
Additional investments approved by Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for the Hartford area include:
- $1 million to finance repairs and refurbishment of back-of-house facilities at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, along with the Rentschler Field. The funding split among the two attractions will support repairs including new food and beverage equipment, sound system upgrades, and replacement of damaged bathroom fixtures
- $2 million to the City of Hartford for brownfield remediation
- $1 million for capital improvements to The Elizabeth Park Conservancy
- $500,000 to the Northside Neighborhood Alliance of Hartford for historic preservation and maintenance
Clinton Delegation Announces Bond Funding For Upgrades To American Legion Post 66
Clinton Delegation Announces Bond Funding For Upgrades To American Legion Post 66
Today, the Clinton delegation including State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) and State Representative Christine Goupil (D-Clinton) announced that the town will receive grant funding from the State Bond Commission, approved at its meeting today, to support upgrades to American Legion Post 66.
“I’m thrilled to be bringing home this victory for the veterans at American Legion Post 66 in Clinton,” Rep. Goupil said. “The veterans at Post 66 are the silent heroes of our community who never take credit for all the amazing work they do, which includes organizing the Memorial Day ceremonies, parade and flyover, providing a space for numerous local organizations to meet and for events. This funding will allow the post to make dire updates and energy-saving improvements to their facility, so they can continue to serve our community. I want to thank Governor Lamont’s Office, and the Bonding Subcommittee House Chair, Representative Dorinda Borer, for recognizing its need in my continued advocacy. I also want to thank Post 66 for remaining a pillar of support for all in the community.”
“I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support of our local community,” said Sen. Needleman. “The American Legion Post 66 has been an integral part of our community for decades, aiding our veteran populations who have given so much back. I’m proud the Post will be able to make needed upgrades.”
“American Legion Post 66 provides an incredible resource in Clinton for veterans and their families, and this state funding will help provide upgrades to their facility so that the organization can continue operating there for many years to come,” said Governor Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission.
“A thank you is totally inadequate for the gratitude we owe for our representatives. For Their work and tireless dedication in securing us this grant. We will be forever grateful. Our building desperately needs these funds for necessary upgrades. Many parts of this structure date back to 1930, including part of our electric service. The upgrades this grant will allow will ensure that this, our nerve center, will be able to continue to support the veterans of Clinton for years to come.” Commander Jack Scherban, American Legion Post 66, said.
The State Bond Commission today $458,000 in grant funds for Clinton’s American Legion Post 66, specifically to upgrade the property. This work will provide for the property’s continued operations supporting the local veteran community.
Old Saybrook Delegation Announces Bond Funding For Sidewalk Completion
Old Saybrook Delegation Announces Bond Funding For Sidewalk Completion
Today, the Old Saybrook delegation including State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex), State Senator Paul Formica (R-Old Saybrook) and State Representative Devin Carney (R-Old Saybrook) announced that the town will receive grant funding from the State Bond Commission, with its approval of a funding release today, that will aid the completion of a sidewalk system around town.
“I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support of our local community,” said Sen. Needleman. “Completing sidewalks around the entire town will provide important resources for recreation, exercise, commuting and reducing traffic, benefitting our entire town.”
“Our sidewalks are an important piece of our community’s infrastructure, and are vital to public safety, accessibility, and economic development,” said Senate Republican Leader Pro Tempore Paul Formica (R-East Lyme). “I applaud the bipartisan effort of so many advocating for Old Saybrook and the state investment in projects that help enhance the town and better connect people to local businesses, to recreation, and – most of all – to each other. Thanks to the bond commission for their bipartisan support and approval of this local investment.”
“These funds will help Old Saybrook complete the sidewalk project and give pedestrians more safe options to get around town, support local businesses with more foot traffic, and improve connectivity between neighborhoods,” said Rep. Carney.
“Old Saybrook is an incredible community, and creating sidewalks throughout the town will improve accessibility for everyone who lives in the area,” said Governor Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission.
“This is great news,” said First Selectman Carl Fortuna. “On behalf of our residents, visitors and those that will travel between the towns of Westbrook and Old Saybrook, I want to thank the Governor and our Old Saybrook delegation for consideration of this project. The completion of this project will provide safe passage for pedestrians from the Westbrook border all the way to Saybrook Point, town center and Saybrook Junction. Old Saybrook has been meaningfully investing in its sidewalks for nearly 5 years; these funds will allow us to realize a goal set by town leadership to make certain that all ages and abilities can safely traverse throughout our town for recreational and commercial needs.”
The State Bond Commission today approved $769,500 in grant funding to support the completion of a sidewalk system around town. That system’s development was coordinated with the Town of Westbrook and provides pedestrian and bicyclist options to residents among many other advantages.
Sen. McCrory, Rep. Gibson Applaud $650,000 for Youth Athletic Fields in Bloomfield
Sen. McCrory, Rep. Gibson Applaud $650,000 for Youth Athletic Fields in Bloomfield
State Senator Doug McCrory and Rep. Bobby Gibson, members of the Bloomfield legislative delegation, celebrated the approval of $650,000 in state funding by Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for the installation of light fixtures that will allow the athletic fields at Bloomfield’s Park School Complex (330 Park Avenue) to be illuminated at night. This improvement to the community’s athletic fields will support youth sports during the fall season and enhance a safe recreational environment for young people.
“One of the most important things, we can do for our young people is to provide a safe, fun environment for them to hang out with friends while supporting their personal growth. I’m excited that we have secured this state funding. It will give Bloomfield’s youth athletic teams more opportunities to partake in the sports that they are incredibly passionate about and learn skills they’ll use as adults,” said Sen. McCrory. “Thank you to Governor Lamont, the State Bond Commission, Rep. Gibson, and Mayor Danielle Wong for their partnership on the project. It is a great day for Bloomfield’s young leaders and amazing student-athletes.”
Rep. Gibson said, “Youth sports hold a dear place in my heart. I know firsthand how participating in athletics as a student can sometimes make or break your academic outcome, and how you will learn important skills you can carry on into adulthood. I am excited and grateful to have secured this funding for Bloomfield because it will broaden the opportunities that our youth athletic teams can offer, providing our students with even more resources to better equip them for the future. I want to offer a sincere thank you to Governor Lamont, the Bonding Subcommittee Co-Chairs, and my Colleague, Sen. McCrory for their continued dedication toward this initiative.”
“Youth sports provide a valuable opportunity for not only recreation but also for socializing, and this state funding will help ensure that children in Bloomfield continue to have a location where they can engage in play and recreational activities,” said Governor Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission.
The light fixtures project is the result of public feedback and a commitment to enhancing recreation opportunities for Bloomfield’s youth. The installation of the lights across the several athletic fields – consisting of two full-size soccer fields, one multipurpose field, a softball field, and tennis/pickleball courts at the Park School Complex – will benefit the ability of the Bloomfield Junior Soccer Association, the Raiders Football & Cheer, and the Jr. Warhawks Football & Cheer teams to play during the fall season.
Further, the upgraded athletic fields will be a boost for overall community use by permitting multi-field use. This simultaneous field use will accommodate hundreds of youth and adults congregating at the Park School Complex.
Deep River Delegation Announces Bond Funding For School Recreational Equipment
Deep River Delegation Announces Bond Funding For School Recreational Equipment
Today, the Deep River delegation including State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) and State Representative Christine Palm (D-Deep River) announced the town will receive grant funding from the State Bond Commission, with the Bond Commission’s bonding release approval today, to replace recreational equipment at Deep River Elementary School, Devitt Field and Plattwood Park.
“I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support of our local community,” said Sen. Needleman. “This funding will provide new recreational opportunities at the elementary school, field and park, which will provide opportunities for our entire town to enjoy and utilize these resources.”
“Children’s mental health has taken a serious hit during the pandemic, and any opportunity to get kids outside and moving around is a great thing,” Rep. Palm said. “I’m grateful to Sen. Needleman for leading the way in upgrading recreational equipment, play areas and ballfields, and I hope kids will disconnect from electronics and grab a baseball glove.”
“By partnering with Deep River, we can provide the necessary state funding to ensure that young students in the town continue to have a place for safe recreational opportunities with new, modernized equipment and resources,” said Governor Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission.
“Deep River is grateful to Governor Lamont, the State Bond Commission, and our representatives in Hartford, Senator Norm Needleman and Representative Christine Palm for their continued support of our community,” said Deep River First Selectman Angus McDonald. “We are aware that there are many deserving projects and the State does not have infinite resources. This funding will have an outsized impact by allowing us to complete a project that will provide our school and community with a safe and creative playground environment for children and families of all abilities to enjoy.”
The State Bond Commission today approved $325,000 in grant funding to the town of Deep River to replace recreational equipment at the elementary school, field and park. Those replacements will provide longer-lasting and safer opportunities for the local community to utilize recreational resources.
Essex Delegation Announces Bond Funding For Emergency Radio Tower
Essex Delegation Announces Bond Funding For Emergency Radio Tower
Today, the Essex delegation including State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) and State Representative Christine Palm (D-Essex) announced that the town will receive grant funding from the State Bond Commission, approved today, that will aid the construction of an emergency radio tower, among other important emergency upgrades.
“I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support of our local community,” said Sen. Needleman. “An emergency radio tower in our area, among other emergency equipment upgrades, will play an important and valuable role in preserving and supporting public safety. I look forward to this project moving forward.”
“It’s encouraging that our community will have stronger and more resilient resources in the event of emergency,” said Rep. Palm. “I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for committing to and investing in local safety.”
“This state funding will be used to upgrade the emergency response equipment in Essex to ensure that the region continues to have modernized communications capabilities in the event of emergencies,” said Governor Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission. “I am glad that we can partner with the town on this project.”
The State Bond Commission today approved $165,000 for Essex to build an emergency radio tower, install a generator and make additional upgrades to emergency equipment. These resources will better prepare the region in the event of future emergencies.
Sen. McCrory, Rep. Khan Welcome $2 Million Investment Toward Route 159 in Windsor
Sen. McCrory, Rep. Khan Welcome $2 Million Investment Toward Route 159 in Windsor
State Senator Doug McCrory (D-Hartford, Windsor, and Bloomfield) and Representative Maryam Khan (D-Hartford, Windsor) welcomed Governor Ned Lamont’s and the State Bond Commission’s approval of $2 million to assist reconstruction of a median along Route 159 in Windsor. The funding will support reconstruction activities including new stamped concrete and curbing along the route. The reconstruction is necessary because the present median has deteriorated and created a safety hazard.
“I want to thank Governor Lamont and the members of the State Bond Commission for approving this infrastructure improvement funding and their continued support for the Windsor community. This project will address a present safety risk, while improving Windsor’s overall infrastructure,” said Sen. McCrory.
Rep. Khan said, “I am grateful that Windsor was able to receive this generous funding. The funding will provide the necessary safety improvements our community needs and deserves. I would also like to thank the Governor, the Bonding Subcommittee Co-Chairs, and my colleague, Senator McCrory for their continued work and advocacy for this project and for Windsor.”
“It is important that we maintain our roads so that they remain safe for residents, visitors, and businesses, and I am glad that we are able to release this state funding to make these needed improvements to Route 159,” said Governor Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission.