SEN. OSTEN WELCOMES $334,000 IN STATE GRANTS FOR NORWICH DOCK AND WALKWAY

SEN. OSTEN WELCOMES $334,000 IN STATE GRANTS FOR NORWICH DOCK AND WALKWAY

NORWICH – State Senator Cathy Osten (D-Sprague) today welcomed State Bond Commission approval of $289,490 for dock replacement at the Howard T. Brown Memorial Park at Norwich harbor, and another $45,000 for the Heritage Riverfront Walkway Overlook Enhancement on the banks of the Yantic River.

The state funding will help cover the cost of long-planned repairs to the dock.

“Brown Memorial Park is a real hub of activity in downtown Norwich, whether you’re fishing off the handicap ramp or enjoying the ‘Rock the Docks’ music series in the summer,” Sen. Osten said. “But, like any municipal infrastructure, and especially one in the water, they require a lot of maintenance and occasional replacement. Hopefully these planned upgrades can last another 30 years or so.”

Senator Doug McCrory Welcomes Over $28 Million in Funding to Hartford

Senator Doug McCrory Welcomes Over $28 Million in Funding to Hartford

Today, state Senator Doug McCrory (D-Hartford) is welcoming over $28 million in state funding approved by the State Bond Commission for projects in Hartford. These projects will help support funding infrastructure renovations, housing developments, educational opportunities, and safety upgrades.

“Prioritizing the needs of our residents is a top priority and with this funding the future of Hartford looks bright,” said Sen. McCrory. “I would like to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their approval on these investments. Hartford desperately needs to continue to improve on the safety of families and our children deserve the opportunity of success. Affordable housing allows for families to have a safe place to live while enjoying the beautiful upgrades around them.”

“Many of these projects for the Hartford community are long overdue, and I am glad that we could partner with the city and get this state funding approved,” Governor Ned Lamont said.

Under the Bonding Agenda, the allocation of funding for projects in Hartford is as follows:

$1.6 million – Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford:This funding will help with the renovation of the 18,000 sq ft facility featuring amenities designed to provide Hartford youth with services including classroom space, makerspace/technology lab, learning center, gymnasium, art space, and indoor hydroponic garden; $4,570,000 – City of Hartford: This grant will focus on the revitalization of Long Wharf Park; features in the park include public site furniture, lighting, playground, bike paths, outdoor fitness, upgraded walkways, and Food Truck pavilion; $1.5 million -The Prosperity Foundation: This funding will be used by Upper Albany NRZ towards the acquisition of the Salvation Army facility at 333 Homestead Avenue. The agency is exploring several potential uses for the final development including senior housing, intergenerational programming, and a farmer-fresh produce retail market; $7 million – XL Center:These funds will help to finance the design of future renovation work at the XL Center in Hartford and will repair the stadium’s retractable seating and address various other repairs and improvements; $8.5 million – Vacant Industrial Building in Hartford: This funding will help finance the conversion of a vacant industrial building at 235- 237 Hamilton Street in Hartford’s Parkville neighborhood into 235 apartments. The loan will be provided as an interest-only 3% loan in years 1 through 5, converting to 3% principal and interest loan for years 6 through 30; $1 million – State Emergency Operations Center in Hartford: These funds will help with renovations and improvements to the State Emergency Operations Center in Hartford. Renovations will include upgrades to the HVAC system, health and safety renovations, as well as improvements to the server room to meet current fire code requirements; $2.5 million – MLK Housing Project:This funding will help to finance the MLK Housing project, managed by Shelden Oaks Central Inc. This project will include the demolition of a previously existing 64-unit apartment community built in 1970 and replace it with 155 mixed income units. 86 units will be designated as affordable, and 69 units will be market rate. The $2.5 million allocation from CRDA will be combined with $2.38 million from the City of Hartford and distributed as an interest-only 2% loan for years 1-10, converting to principal and interest amortizing debt in years 11-40, but scheduled to refinance by year 15. $522,500 – Riverfront Recapture in Windsor/Hartford:These funds will be used to complete a 825 ft trail section and build a bridge spanning Decker’s Brook, closing the gap in the trail system between Hartford and Windsor’s Riverwalks; $125,511 – Camera Installations at Hartford Correctional Center $1.5 million – Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services:This funding will address a wide variety of emergency and infrastructure repairs including electrical, roof leaks and gutter repairs, piping replacement, and structural repairs at Connecticut Valley Hospital in Middletown and 410 Capitol Avenue in Hartford.

Sen. Cabrera and Hamden Delegation Welcomes $198,875 for Hamden DMV Office Upgrades

Sen. Cabrera and Hamden Delegation Welcomes $198,875 for Hamden DMV Office Upgrades

HARTFORD, CT – The Hamden Delegation, which consists of state Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden) and state Representatives Mary Welander, Josh Elliott, Robyn A. Porter, Mike D’Agostino and Liz Linehan welcomed state funding totaling $198,875 for improvements at the Hamden Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Office.

“I am grateful for all those involved who I worked alongside to help secure these funds and Governor Lamont, as this will have a positive impact in Hamden,” said Sen. Cabrera. “Improvements to our DMV office will address several necessary areas for improvement regarding roofing, lighting and walkability through sidewalk upgrades.”

“I am excited to see that our local DMV will receive necessary funding to make upgrades to the facility, making it safer and more accessible to our residents,” Rep. Welander said. “Thank you to Governor Lamont, Bonding Subcommittee Co-Chairs Senator Moore and Representative Napoli, and the Hamden delegation for ensuring that our community receives vital funds.”

“The Hamden DMV branch is going to undergo so much positive change thanks to this investment,” said Rep. Elliott. “We’re going to improve the parking lot, repair the roof, and boost security just to name a few upgrades. Everyone who visits the Hamden DMV will notice a huge difference once we put this state bonding money to good use.”

“I thank the Governor and State Bonding Commission for granting this funding, allowing for necessary repairs and upgrades to be made to our public spaces. Now, we must have the necessary and overdue conversations with our Hamden community so that we will be best informed as to what it is they need and desire to improve the neighborhoods that they call home,” said Rep. Porter.

“Our community members and visitors who utilize the Hamden DMV deserve to visit a facility that is safe, functional and accessible. With this funding, we can now make overdue upgrades to our local DMV. I want to thank Governor Lamont, Bonding Subcommittee Co-Chairs Senator Moore and Representative Napoli, and the Hamden delegation for their continued advocacy to secure these funds,” said Rep. D’Agostino.

“This is welcomed funding for the Department of Motor Vehicles facilities. I’m encouraged to see facility upkeep be a priority, as the penny-wise-but-pound-foolish approach to facility management is a larger strain on taxpayers,” said Rep. Linehan. “This is good priority funding that supports the safety of the general public and employees as well, and I’m happy to support it.”

“Many DMV services can now be completed online and we continue to urge residents to use that as the fastest and most convenient option of conducting business with the DMV, however for various reasons it is still important that people have access to in-person offices,” Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission, said. “This funding will be used to ensure the Hamden DMV office can continue to safely operate and provide services to people who live in the region.”

Per the state bonding agenda, $198,875 in state funds will be used for design paving, sidewalks and lighting upgrades at the Hamden DMV, according to the agenda.

Senator Gaston, Bridgeport Delegation Welcomes State Bonding For Projects in Bridgeport

Senator Gaston, Bridgeport Delegation Welcomes State Bonding For Projects in Bridgeport

Today, the Bridgeport Delegation comprised of state Senators Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport) and Marilyn Moore (D-Bridgeport), and state Representatives Christopher Rosario (D-Bridgeport), Fred Gee (D-Bridgeport), Marcus Brown (D-Bridgeport), Cristin McCarthy Vahey (D-Bridgeport), Andre Baker Jr. (D-Bridgeport) and Steve Stafstrom (D-Bridgeport), is welcoming over $8 million in funding approved by the State Bond Commission for projects in Bridgeport. Funds will be allocated to Career Resources, Inc., the Bridgeport Correctional Center, and the City of Bridgeport to complete the Civic Block project.

“I am grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving funding that Bridgeport so desperately needs,” said Sen. Gaston. “Our residents deserve a friendly atmosphere that provides a one-stop-shop and addresses the essential needs of our residents. Revamping the Civic Block is critical in assisting in the revitalization, resurgence, and the vitality of the East End. And investing in Career Resources puts an investment in our residents. It places an importance on making sure help is given to those who may have lost their job and are seeking employment. I am also grateful to Gov. Lamont for placing importance on our Correctional Center. Upgrading and the installation of cameras works to impose a more secure protection of everyone.”

“Specifically, the East End of Bridgeport, has been waiting years for a project like the Civic Block to be completed,” said Sen Moore. “It could be the beginning of an economic awakening for the residents. I am grateful for the funding that will ensure the project is completed.”

“I am proud of the hard work of the Bridgeport Delegation that helped pave the way for these important projects in our great city” said Rep. Rosario. “I look forward to seeing these investments take shape and thank Governor Lamont and the CIF Board for prioritizing our city in this round of funding.”

“Today’s vote by the State Bond Commission secures vital funding to make major investments in our community,” said Rep. McCarthy Vahey. “Over $8.1 million will go toward three separate projects in Bridgeport that will increase access to career resources, create vibrant, walkable community centers, and ensure public safety. I want to thank the Governor, the State Bond Commission, and most of all the members of the Bridgeport delegation for their continued advocacy and work to secure these funds.”

“This bond funding is critical for Bridgeport because it addresses resources for our workforce – present and future – in addition to trying to eliminate a food desert, where people may be at higher risk of diet-related conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease because of the lack of health food options,” said Rep. Stafstrom. “I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving this funding.”

“Career development and local retail spaces are causes we must always fight for,” said Rep. Gee. “I thank Governor Ned Lamont and the State Bond Commission for funding Career Resources, Inc. and Bridgeport’s Civic Block – projects that will help build a more just and equitable society.”

“This funding supports direct spending on much-needed resources that will improve the quality of life for residents in Bridgeport,” said Rep. Brown. “I would like to thank my colleagues in the Bridgeport Delegation for their work in securing this funding and Governor Lamont and the State Bonding Commission for their consideration.”

“The new retail and career development spaces will provide an incredible boost to our local economy that will be felt by all residents,” said Rep. Baker. “I am immensely proud to see these projects come to fruition after years of hard work and collaboration, and I am excited about these essential services coming to Bridgeport.”

“Each of these projects are focused on providing important services to the residents of Bridgeport, such as job training and economic development, and I am glad that we could get this funding approved,” Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission, said.

Under the Bonding Agenda: $4,536,250 is set to be allocated to Career Resources, Inc. The funds will be used to assist the renovation of Main Street, a 42,500 sq ft building, to facilitate a suite of programs for job training, job placement, case management, referrals to support services, and onsite social enterprises. $3.5 million will be allocated to the City of Bridgeport to help finish the Civic Block project. The funds will be used to complete construction to create a 35,000 sq ft of retail space, including a grocery store in a neighborhood that is currently a food desert. $72,480 will be allocated to Bridgeport Correctional Center for camera installations.

Sen. Moore, Bridgeport Delegation Welcomes State Bonding For Projects in Bridgeport

Sen. Moore, Bridgeport Delegation Welcomes State Bonding For Projects in Bridgeport

Today, the Bridgeport Delegation comprised of state Senators Marilyn Moore (D-Bridgeport) and Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport) and state Representatives Christopher Rosario (D-Bridgeport), Fred Gee (D-Bridgeport), Marcus Brown (D-Bridgeport), Cristin McCarthy Vahey (D-Bridgeport), and Steve Stafstrom (D-Bridgeport), is welcoming over $8 million in funding approved by the State Bond Commission for projects in Bridgeport. Funds will be allocated to Career Resources, Inc., the Bridgeport Correctional Center, and the City of Bridgeport to complete the Civic Block project.

“Specifically, the East End of Bridgeport, has been waiting years for a project like the Civic Block to be completed,” said Sen Moore. “It could be the beginning of an economic awakening for the residents. I am grateful for the funding that will ensure the project is completed.”

“I am grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving funding that Bridgeport so desperately needs,” said Sen. Gaston. “Our residents deserve a friendly atmosphere that provides a one-stop-shop and addresses the essential needs of our residents. Revamping the Civic Block is critical in assisting in the revitalization, resurgence, and the vitality of the East End. And investing in Career Resources puts an investment in our residents. It places an importance on making sure help is given to those who may have lost their job and are seeking employment. I am also grateful to Gov. Lamont for placing importance on our Correctional Center. Upgrading and the installation of cameras works to impose a more secure protection of everyone.”

“I am proud of the hard work of the Bridgeport Delegation that helped pave the way for these important projects in our great city” said Rep. Rosario. “I look forward to seeing these investments take shape and thank Governor Lamont and the CIF Board for prioritizing our city in this round of funding.”

“Today’s vote by the State Bond Commission secures vital funding to make major investments in our community,” said Rep. McCarthy Vahey. “Over $8.1 million will go toward three separate projects in Bridgeport that will increase access to career resources, create vibrant, walkable community centers, and ensure public safety. I want to thank the Governor, the State Bond Commission, and most of all the members of the Bridgeport delegation for their continued advocacy and work to secure these funds.”

“This bond funding is critical for Bridgeport because it addresses resources for our workforce – present and future – in addition to trying to eliminate a food desert, where people may be at higher risk of diet-related conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease because of the lack of health food options,” said Rep. Stafstrom. “I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving this funding.”

“Career development and local retail spaces are causes we must always fight for,” said Rep. Gee. “I thank Governor Ned Lamont and the State Bond Commission for funding Career Resources, Inc. and Bridgeport’s Civic Block – projects that will help build a more just and equitable society.”

“This funding supports direct spending on much-needed resources that will improve the quality of life for residents in Bridgeport,” said Rep. Brown. “I would like to thank my colleagues in the Bridgeport Delegation for their work in securing this funding and Governor Lamont and the State Bonding Commission for their consideration.”

“Each of these projects are focused on providing important services to the residents of Bridgeport, such as job training and economic development, and I am glad that we could get this funding approved,” Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission, said.

Under the Bonding Agenda: $4,536,250 is set to be allocated to Career Resources, Inc. The funds will be used to assist the renovation of Main Street, a 42,500 sq ft building, to facilitate a suite of programs for job training, job placement, case management, referrals to support services, and onsite social enterprises. $3.5 million will be allocated to the City of Bridgeport to help finish the Civic Block project. The funds will be used to complete construction to create a 35,000 sq ft of retail space, including a grocery store in a neighborhood that is currently a food desert. $72,480 will be allocated to Bridgeport Correctional Center for camera installations.

EAST HARTFORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $151,137 IN STATE GRANTS TO UPGRADE SCHOOL AIR FILTRATION

EAST HARTFORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $151,137 IN STATE GRANTS TO UPGRADE SCHOOL AIR FILTRATION

Today, the East Hartford delegation including State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), House Majority Leader Jason Rojas (D-East Hartford), State Representative Jeff Currey (D-East Hartford) and State Representative Henry Genga (D-East Hartford) welcomed this week’s announcement that Governor Ned Lamont’s administration will award East Hartford with $151,137 through the HVAC Indoor Air Quality Grants Program for Public Schools to improve air filtration and quality in East Hartford schools. This is part of a $56 million grant release to school systems across the state.

Langford Elementary School will receive $74,860 and Sunset Middle School will receive $76,277 to facilitate improvements and upgrades to heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems; East Hartford will supply remaining project costs. The funds can be used for replacing, upgrading or repairing boilers and other heating/ventilation components; replacing controls and technology systems for HVAC operations; installing or upgrading air conditioning or ventilation systems; or other work approved by the Department of Administrative Services.

“Our children deserve healthy and safe schools to support their growth and leaning however possible. They can’t properly learn without clean air, which is why I’m so grateful for this investment in our schools and the future of our state’s children,” said Sen. Anwar. “I would like to thank Governor Lamont and his administration for their commitment to improving respiratory health in our state’s schools.”

“Thanks to the Office of Governor Ned Lamont for providing clean air to our students and staff. These grants will help our children stay healthy while improving their ability to learn. I look forward to continuing to support improving the air quality in all of our schools. “ said House Majority Leader Rojas.

“When CT families send their students and educators off each day and into the halls of our schools, they shouldn’t have to worry about the air they breathe,” Rep. Currey said. “Providing a safe and healthy environment remains a priority in Connecticut, and as the Education Committee Co-Chair, I remain committed to ensuring Connecticut students receive a high-quality learning experience in a safe and nurturing environment.”

“I am grateful that our teachers and students will benefit from the improved quality of air in our schools. This wise investment will greatly improve their health and the quality of learning,” said Rep. Genga.

Governor Lamont said, “One thing the COVID-19 pandemic exposed is that many school buildings, particularly those that are of a certain age, are in serious need of air quality improvements. Modernized ventilation systems provide an important public health function that filtrate the air and reduce airborne contaminants, including particles containing viruses. Most importantly, these air filtration systems will help ensure that our students can continue receiving their education in-person, in the classroom, where they learn best. When the pandemic began, we dedicated more than $165 million in our federal relief funding to make air filtration upgrades in schools. Now, with this new state program, we have a dedicated source of funding to continue these upgrades and partner with schools on these much-needed infrastructure improvements.”

The grants program, administered by the state Department of Administrative Services, was created as part of the budget adjustment bill passed by lawmakers and signed into law in the spring of 2022. The law further requires schools to inspect and evaluate HVAC systems every five years, requires these reports to be made public, and requires the reporting of any corrective action taken.

SEN. RAHMAN, REP. WEIR WELCOME $412,317 IN STATE GRANTS TO UPGRADE RHAM HIGH SCHOOL SCHOOL AIR FILTRATION

SEN. RAHMAN, REP. WEIR WELCOME $412,317 IN STATE GRANTS TO UPGRADE RHAM HIGH SCHOOL SCHOOL AIR FILTRATION

Today, State Senator MD Rahman (D-Manchester) and State Representative Steve Weir (R-55) welcomed this week’s announcement that Governor Ned Lamont’s administration will award RHAM High School through Region District 8 with $412,317 through the HVAC Indoor Air Quality Grants Program for Public Schools to improve air filtration and quality. This is part of a $56 million grant release to school systems across the state.

RHAM High School will receive $249,424 for school HVAC upgrades and $162,894 for locker room HVAC upgrades; Region District 8 will supply remaining project costs. The funds can be used for replacing, upgrading or repairing boilers and other heating/ventilation components; replacing controls and technology systems for HVAC operations; installing or upgrading air conditioning or ventilation systems; or other work approved by the Department of Administrative Services.

“Students, and student-athletes, need healthy conditions to learn, grow and thrive,” said Sen. Rahman. “I’m encouraged that this funding will make RHAM High School a cleaner school for all students. I’m grateful to the Governor’s administration for its support.”

“All three of my girls have attended RHAM Middle School, and my youngest is currently at RHAM High School,” Rep. Weir said. “RHAM has a quality facilities staff and I’m confident that they will provide input on how to ensure these upgrades improve the student experience and provide the most value for RHAM taxpayers.”

Governor Lamont said, “One thing the COVID-19 pandemic exposed is that many school buildings, particularly those that are of a certain age, are in serious need of air quality improvements. Modernized ventilation systems provide an important public health function that filtrate the air and reduce airborne contaminants, including particles containing viruses. Most importantly, these air filtration systems will help ensure that our students can continue receiving their education in-person, in the classroom, where they learn best. When the pandemic began, we dedicated more than $165 million in our federal relief funding to make air filtration upgrades in schools. Now, with this new state program, we have a dedicated source of funding to continue these upgrades and partner with schools on these much-needed infrastructure improvements.”

The grants program, administered by the state Department of Administrative Services, was created as part of the budget adjustment bill passed by lawmakers and signed into law in the spring of 2022. The law further requires schools to inspect and evaluate HVAC systems every five years, requires these reports to be made public, and requires the reporting of any corrective action taken.

SEN. KUSHNER AND DANBURY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION CELEBRATE STATE FUNDING FOR DANBURY HACKERSPACE EXPANSION

SEN. KUSHNER AND DANBURY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION CELEBRATE STATE FUNDING FOR DANBURY HACKERSPACE EXPANSION

HARTFORD – The State Bond Commission today approved $510,761 for Danbury Hackerspace to construct a second location in the former Crown Plaza Hotel in Danbury.

Danbury Hackerspace is a locally based nonprofit makerspace and coworking facility. It includes resources for entrepreneurs and creatives to utilize, such as 3D printers, prototyping tools, and a mockup studio. Danbury hackerspace will use the state grant to help make renovations to the new space, purchase equipment, and hire student interns to help run the hackerspace.

“The Danbury Hackerspace has proven itself over the past decade to be a business incubator for hundreds of entrepreneurs and artists. Now, with this substantial infusion of state funding, they’ll be able to expand their reach and their impact even further,” said state Senator Julie Kushner (D-Danbury).

“Danbury Hackerspace has been an innovator and incubator since 2012,” noted state Representative Bob Godfrey (D-110). “This funding will be split about 50/50 for renovations and for equipment. It’s exactly what Connecticut needs to build up our technology businesses.”

“I want to thank the State Bond Commission for approving funding for the Danbury Hackerspace. For the past decade, the Danbury Hackerspace has been an invaluable resource to our community and helped individuals cultivate and expand their businesses. Thanks to this funding, they will continue to do so for years to come,” said state Representative Farley Santos (D- 109).

“This state funding will help Danbury Hackerspace build one of the largest business incubators in the region right here in the 2nd District, at the former Crowne Plaza Hotel at Exit 2 in Danbury. Entrepreneurs and inventors will have access to 3D printers, industrial lasers, a machine shop, a wood shop, and studio spaces. Given their power in our economy, startups deserve this support and attention as we work to revitalize our economies in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for supporting this exciting workspace and helping us breathe new life into Connecticut’s innovative economy,” said state Representative Raghib Allie-Brennan (D-2).

“I want to congratulate Mike Kaltschnee on expanding the Danbury Hackerspace to a new location on the City’s westside, while keeping their location on Main Street. The organization provides tools, classes and assistance to people looking to start up new small businesses, which are the backbone of our economy,” said state Representative Rachel Chaleski (R-138).

The existing Danbury Hackerspace location at 158 Main Street will remain open.

NEW LONDON DELEGATION WELCOMES STATE BOND COMMISSION APPROVAL OF $95,000 FOR PUBLIC LIBRARY RENOVATIONS

NEW LONDON DELEGATION WELCOMES STATE BOND COMMISSION APPROVAL OF $95,000 FOR PUBLIC LIBRARY RENOVATIONS

Today, the New London delegation welcomed the release of $95,000 in grant funding by the State Bond Commission at its April 6 meeting to support renovations to the Public Library of New London. The work involved will include renovations to the building’s bathrooms and reading rooms and improvements to the library’s elevators.

The funds are sourced in three chunks that were unused and forfeited by other communities. Funds originally committed to library improvement projects in Sharon ($75,000), Greenwich ($10,000) and Derby ($10,000) have been reallocated to New London in support of this project.

“Our library is an important community resource, and I’m glad these renovations will make sure our residents can enjoy it to the fullest,” said State Senator Martha Marx. “I’m grateful to the State Bond Commission and Governor Lamont for supporting New London in a way that will pay dividends for years to come.”

“This funding will make visiting the library a better experience for New London residents of all ages,” State Representative Christine Conley said. “The library is a staple of our community, and I’m thrilled to see the renovations to come.”

“These renovations will help foster an environment of lifelong learning among New London residents,” State Representative Anthony Nolan said. “Our library will continue to bring this community together, and I’m glad to see the wise investment of these funds.”

“The New London library provides an invaluable resource to the city’s residents, and I am glad that the state could partner with the city to ensure that these much-needed renovations can move forward and the services the library provides can continue for many years to come,” said Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission.

Stratford Delegation Welcomes Over $2.4 Million in State Bonding

Stratford Delegation Welcomes Over $2.4 Million in State Bonding

Today, the Stratford Delegation, consisting of state Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport / Stratford) and Representative Joseph Gresko (D-Stratford), is welcoming over $2.4 million to Stratford, recently approved by the State Bond Commission. The funding will help improve the South End Community Center in Stratford.

“The South End Community Center harbors some of the most eclectic and diverse community members with a sustainable suite of programs that work to make our residents successful,” said Sen. Gaston. “The improvements being made will enhance the occupancy and allow for the success of even more young students, providing for a bigger gesture to help those with food insecurity, and provide a safe haven for our seniors and most vulnerable residents. As a major champion for this project, I am thankful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving this much needed funding that will make our community center a secure outlet for our community.”

“Many thanks to the State Bond Commission for recognizing Stratford’s South End Community Center as a vital service provider in the community,” said Rep. Gresko. “Upgrades made to the facility as a result of this funding will expand programs and services for residents.”

“This community center in Stratford provides many services that benefit the town’s residents, and that is why I am glad the state could partner with the town on this project and make it happen,” Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission, said.

Under the Bonding Agenda: The South End Community Center is being allocated $2,446,463 for interior and exterior renovations. The improvements will result in expanded after school program capacity, additional office space, expansion of community food pantry, expanded capacity for daycare enrollment, and increase the accessibility of space for seniors.