Senators Gaston and Moore Welcome Bond Commission Funding for Bridgeport

Posted on June 7, 2024 by Devin James

Senators Gaston and Moore Welcome Bond Commission Funding for Bridgeport

State Senators Herron Keyon Gaston and Marilyn Moore celebrated Friday the State Bond Commission’s approval of more than $14 million to support projects throughout Bridgeport including $8 million to remediate a brownfield site near the Pequonnock River.

The remediation project will help offset the cost of cleaning up a 20-acre site between 141 Stratford Ave. and 255 Kossuth St., enabling the land to be developed for other uses. The commission also approved more than $5.1 million for renovations to historically significant locations in Bridgeport’s Washington Park Community.

“This funding represents good news for Bridgeport residents, who will benefit from state support for projects that revitalize our historic neighborhoods and drive economic growth by cleaning up a brownfield site, making it available for future development,” Senator Gaston, D-Bridgeport, said. “I am thankful to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for their dedication to improving Bridgeport’s future.”

“I am grateful to the governor and the State Bond Commission for their approval of funds that invest in Bridgeport’s infrastructure, making land available for future development projects and schools,” Senator Moore, D-Bridgeport, said.

The State Bond Commission agenda also included $800,000 for Achievement First Bridgeport Academy Middle School to assist the public charter school with capital improvements and repaying debts.

Contact: Hugh McQuaid | Hugh.McQuaid@cga.ct.gov | 860-634-4651

Glastonbury Delegation Members Welcome Funding for Addison Park

Posted on June 7, 2024June 11, 2024 by Devin James

Glastonbury Delegation Members Welcome Funding for Addison Park

A state grant of $325,000 to improve Glastonbury’s Addison Park was celebrated Friday by members of the town’s legislative delegation — Senator MD Rahman, D-Manchester, Rep. Jill Barry, D-Glastonbury, and Rep. Jason Doucette, D-Manchester — after the funding was approved by the State Bond Commission.

The money will help Glastonbury renovate its pool by replacing the plaster and tiles on its surfaces as well as making improvements to critical components like its water filtration system. The funds will also help the town refurbish Addison Park’s basketball and tennis courts.

“Addison Park is a vital hub of community activity in Glastonbury, with a wide range of facilities ranging from pools and tennis courts to its new splash pad,” Senator Rahman said. “The planned upgrades, supported by this state grant, will enhance the park’s facilities, making it a safer and more enjoyable place for families to spend their leisure time. I am thankful to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for their commitment to this project, ensuring that Addison Park remains a cherished asset for our community.”

“Addison Park is already an absolute gem in our community and this funding will help to keep it shining. I am grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support,” Representative Doucette said.

“I am thrilled to see this funding allocation for Addison Park,” Representative Barry said. “This investment will help enhance some of the recreational areas in the park which provide a vibrant, inclusive space for everyone to enjoy, play and connect.”

Contact: Hugh McQuaid | Hugh.McQuaid@cga.ct.gov | 860-634-4651

Farmington Delegation Welcomes $250k for Farmington Land Trust

Posted on June 7, 2024 by Devin James

Farmington Delegation Welcomes $250k for Farmington Land Trust

Today, State Senators Derek Slap and Rick Lopes and State Representative Mike Demicco welcome the approval of $250,000 for the Farmington Land Trust’s Wilcox-Bushley Homestead Environmental Learning Center. The funding was approved by the State Bond Commission.

The Farmington Land Trust was gifted an 1880 farmhouse and have since renovated and restored the home to honor its history and to create the Wilcox-Bushley Homestead Environmental Learning Center and Land Trust headquarters. These dollars will help complete the renovation project and continue to fund educational programs for the greater Hartford community about the importance of land conservation, specifically as it pertains to the mitigation of climate change.

“The Farmington Land Trust is a true asset to Farmington and to the Greater Hartford community, and I am thrilled that they will receive these funds,” said State Sen. Derek Slap. “With this funding for their educational programs, the Land Trust can continue to educate local youth about the importance of land preservation and being conscious stewards of our environment. I am grateful to the Bonding Commission for approving this important project.”

“This funding will allow the Farmington Land Trust to complete crucial renovations to transform a historic farm property into a headquarters and environmental learning center. This project will not only preserve an important piece of local history but will expand our environmental education programming to inspire more youth across the region to appreciate and protect our natural spaces,” said State Rep. Mike Demicco.

“We are truly delighted to receive such generous funding from the State of Connecticut for the Farmington Land Trust’s Wilcox-Bushley Homestead Environmental Learning Center,” said Francie Brown Holmes, President of the Farmington Land Trust Board. “These funds will allow us to expand our outreach to the Greater Hartford region and increase access to nature and environmental education. The funds will also further our mission to mitigate the effects of climate change and increase sustainability through the preservation of open space.”

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Contact: Garnet McLaughlin
860-304-2319

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Middletown Delegation Welcomes $13.3M in Funding for City

Posted on June 7, 2024 by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Garnet McLaughlin | Garnet.McLaughlin@cga.ct.gov

Middletown Delegation Welcomes $13.3M in Funding for City

Today, State Senators Matt Lesser and Jan Hochadel, and State Representatives Kai Belton and Brandon Chafee welcome $13.3M for Middletown, including $3.5M for renovations to the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce building. The State Bonding Commission gave final approval to several projects:

$3.5M for renovations to the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce
$2.1M in Community Investment Funds for the Community Health Center Urban Garden Greenhouse
$7.7M for renovations at the Albert J. Solnit Children’s Center-South Campus

Working together with Johanna Bond, Executive Director of the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce, and the Middlesex County delegation, Senator Lesser took the lead in securing $3.5M for renovations to the Chamber building, including energy efficiency upgrades and ADA improvements. The Chamber office is located in downtown Middletown, in a building that was built in 1915. The Chamber seeks to renovate the space to make it safe and energy efficient and complete interior modifications to meet the growing needs for technology and meeting space and install an elevator to provide access for chamber staff, members and the broader community, while maintaining the historic look and character of the original building.

Working with Middletown’s delegation, Sen. Lesser also helped secure funding for the Urban Garden Greenhouse through the Community Investment Fund (CIF). CIF was developed to foster economic development in historically underserved Connecticut communities. The fund has released hundreds of millions of dollars to eligible municipalities, not-for-profit organizations and community development corporations. The project was approved by the Community Investment Fund in March of this year, and now gains final approval from the State Bond Commission.

The Albert J. Solnit Children’s Center-South Campus, locally known as Solnit South, is a youth mental health facility that will receive $7.7 million for replacement of a chiller unit, repairs to the roof, and emergency repairs as necessary.

“After working together with many community partners, I am thrilled to see such big wins for Middletown on today’s bonding agenda that will transform and re-energize Middletown’s Main Street,” said State Sen. Matt Lesser. “I am particularly excited to secure major funding for the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce, which serves as a resource for so many small businesses in our area. While the Chamber is continuously reinventing itself to stay relevant for today’s economy, its building is increasingly out of date and inaccessible. It was clear that these upgrades will be essential to help them meet the changing needs of our local business community. Today’s vote invests in Middletown and the surrounding community and I am immensely grateful to Governor Lamont and the Middlesex County legislative delegation for their support.”

“This funding will allow the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce to make critical upgrades to its infrastructure including technological and accessibility improvements all while avoiding programmatic and staffing reductions,” State Sen. Jan Hochadel said. “This support will ensure that the Chamber can continue to serve the local business community and encourage economic development in the Middletown region.”

“I would like to thank Governor Lamont and the bond commission for approving over $13 million in funding for the Urban Garden Greenhouse, Chamber of Commerce, and rehabilitation at the Solnit Psychiatric Center’s South Campus,” State Rep. Brandon Chafee said. “Each of these entities is essential to the health of our thriving community, and I am proud that our delegation continues to deliver funding for these types of investments.”

“I am grateful for the state’s continued investment in Middletown. These projects will provide critical funding to organizations that strengthen our community. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the bond commission for their consideration,” said State Rep. Kai Belton.

“We are so grateful and appreciative to the Governor, the Bond Commission and Senator Matt Lesser for giving us this great opportunity to do much needed upgrades to the Middlesex Chamber building,” said Middlesex Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Johanna Bond. “This allows us to continue to grow our programs and services to support our businesses and communities. We look forward to continuing making Middlesex County a great place to live, work and play.”

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Senator Doug McCrory Welcomes $63 Million for Hartford Area Projects

Posted on June 7, 2024 by Devin James

Senator Doug McCrory Welcomes $63 Million for Hartford Area Projects

Senator Doug McCrory, D-Hartford, applauded the State Bond Commission’s Friday approval of more than $63 million in bond funding for local projects to benefit the greater Hartford area.

The State Bond Commission met Friday to approve an agenda that contained funding for a wide range of projects in Hartford and Bloomfield. These include initiatives approved by the Community Investment Fund Board, on which Senator McCrory serves as a member.

For instance, the panel approved $6.5 million to restore the Charter Oak Cultural Center, $3.5 million to complete renovations of Hartford’s historic Comet Diner, $900,000 to support the creation of a Workforce Hub at the Swift Factory, more than $5.5 million to support the development of housing at Willow Creek in Hartford, and $4 million to fund improvements to Rockwell Park in Bloomfield.

The Bond Commission also approved $11 million to capitalize the Minority Business Revolving Loan Fund, which will be administered by the Hartford Economic Development Corporation as part of the Small Business Boost Fund.

“Through this funding, we’re making good on a promise to serve communities that have gone underfunded for years,” Senator McCrory said. “This State Bond Commission agenda includes critical support to revitalize historic landmarks, improve public parks, and create a workforce hub in Hartford’s North End. Our residents have the vision to improve their communities. These funds ensure they have the resources to make those ideas a reality.”

Friday’s bond agenda also included funding for the Capital Region Development Authority to support a variety of Hartford projects including $10 million for the development of University of Connecticut dorm units on Pratt Street, $7 million to repair water damage at the Connecticut Convention Center, and $5 million for improvements to parking garages in Downtown Hartford.

Other Capital Region Development Authority projects funded through the bond agenda include $2 million for sidewalk, crosswalk, and lighting improvements to the Front Street District, and more than $3.5 million for the conversion of a commercial building on Laurel Street into residential units.

The commission approved funding for several other Hartford area projects including:

– $600,000 for The Open Hearth housing program in Hartford to renovate its bathroom facilities.

– $700,000 for the Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective to relocate to a new location in Hartford.

– $400,000 for the North Central Connecticut EMS Council in Hartford for communications systems.

– $3 million to develop housing for University of Connecticut students in Hartford.

Contact: Hugh McQuaid | Hugh.McQuaid@cga.ct.gov | 860-634-4651

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STATE SENATOR JAMES MARONEY JOINS LEADERSHIP COUNCIL OF FUTURE OF PRIVACY FORUM CENTER FOR ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Posted on June 7, 2024 by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe O’Leary | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov | 508-479-4969

June 6, 2024

STATE SENATOR JAMES MARONEY JOINS LEADERSHIP COUNCIL OF FUTURE OF PRIVACY FORUM CENTER FOR ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

This week, State Senator James Maroney (D-Milford) was named to the Leadership Council of the Future of Privacy Forum’s Center for Artificial Intelligence, the latest accomplishment he has achieved as he continues to deepen his knowledge and expertise of emerging uses and functions of AI in industries nationwide.

The Center for Artificial Intelligence is designed to help AI policy stakeholders navigate responsible AI and data policies; the members of the Leadership Council are leading AI policy experts from around the world. Sen. Maroney’s work in recent years to advance policies regarding artificial intelligence and data privacy, including spearheading landmark data privacy efforts and Senate Bill 2, legislation that would have made Connecticut a leader in AI regulations this year but did not become law during the 2024 legislative session.

“It’s an honor and privilege to have the opportunity to serve on the Center for Artificial Intelligence’s Leadership Council, and I am excited to begin working alongside important stakeholders in the worlds of AI and tech,” said Sen. Maroney. “I’ve worked for years to learn the latest updates and advances in AI technology, which is taking root in countless industries and expanding every day, and find ways for policies to support beneficial uses while limiting harmful ones. Working alongside the industry professionals, educators and experts on this board will lead to meaningful conversations and collaborations as we work toward a better future.”

The Leadership Council contains representatives from the United Nations High-Level Advisory Board on AI, companies including Microsoft, Google, Visa and Salesforce, professors and policymakers from around the world, including representation from Brazil, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Scotland, the Netherlands and Rwanda.

The Center for Artificial Intelligence will expand the Future of Privacy Forum’s work, introduce new, large-scale novel research projects and compile trusted, nonpartisan, practical expertise.

This is the latest in Sen. Maroney’s efforts to keep policy on pace with technological advancements in Connecticut and beyond. In April, he addressed data privacy at the Global Privacy Summit in Washington, D.C. and traveled to Palo Alto, California to join the State Legislative Leaders Foundation 2024 Spring Leadership Summit on Artificial Intelligence with Senate President Martin M. Looney and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff.

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New Haven Delegation Welcomes Over $25 Million in State Funding

Posted on June 7, 2024June 7, 2024 by Devin James

New Haven Delegation Welcomes Over $25 Million in State Funding

HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney, Senator Gary Winfield, and State Representatives Pat Dillon, Roland Lemar, Juan Candelaria, Al Paolillo, Robyn Porter, and Toni Walker applauded the announcement of over $25 million in state bonding funding for housing, education, non-profits, and community improvements.

The bond agenda includes:

$2,648,000 to the Educational Center for the Arts for various capital upgrades
$350,000 to the Community Resources for Justice for the Family Reentry Center of New Haven for facility updates and improvements
$142,000 to the Goodwill of New Haven for a glass pulverizer
$900,000 to the Christian Community Action, Inc. for renovations to the ARISE Center in New Haven
- Renovations will allow the building to have a training space, client meeting space, offices, kitchen/dining area, and house services such as food pantry and diaper bank
$8,769,517 to the Floyd Little Athletic Center in New Haven for alterations and improvements
$7,500,000 to the City of New Haven for alterations and improvements to the Adult Education Building at 188 Bassett Street
$850,000 to Amistad School of New Haven for capital improvements
$850,000 to Elm City College Prep for capital improvements

In addition, the bond agenda will officially approve four projects previously put forth by the Community Investment Fund.

Continuum of Care Ella-Blake Project – $2,750,000
- Funds for Continuum of Care to purchase its two facilities at 977 Ella Grasso Blvd. and 163 Blake St. in order to preserve 58 units of affordable housing.
Friends Center for Children Flint Street Family Campus – $250,000
- Planning grant for community engagement and design of the Flint Street Family Campus
Haven’s Harvest Phase 2 Planning – $250,000
- Phase II Planning – funds for planning towards community engagement and a feasibility study of the intersection of its work and the needs of the community in the Fair Haven neighborhood.
New Haven Museum Planning for Lighthouse Road and Whitney Avenue – $350,000
- Planning for 325 Lighthouse Rd. and 114 Whitney Ave. – funds for community engagement, a master plan, and designs for renovations and upgrades for the museum’s two sites.

“I am gratified that we will see over $25 million in state bonding funding for New Haven, a testament to our commitment to housing, education, assistance to non-profit social service providers, and community development,” said Senate President Looney. “This substantial investment will not only improve the quality of life for our residents but also strengthen the fabric of our vibrant neighborhoods. New Haven once again is benefiting from significant state investment that I am proud to have helped secure. Thanks to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for this round of investment in our city.”

“This state funding for New Haven is another important investment for our community,” said Senator Winfield. “These projects underscore our dedication to advancing housing, education, and vital community services. Together, we are building a brighter, more prosperous future for all who call New Haven home.”

“I am excited by all of the capital improvement projects on the agenda, especially the investment to preserve affordable housing. Thank you to the State Bond Commission for their consideration,” said Rep. Dillon.

“Through massive investments in our schools, our roadways, and our non-profits, these funds tackle some of the biggest issues facing New Haven residents head on, and I’m thrilled for their approval,” Rep. Lemar said. “Thank you to the New Haven delegation, Gov. Lamont, and the State Bonding Commission for their passage of these funds and support of New Haven.”

“With a dozen projects funded and millions coming to New Haven for our schools, nonprofits, the arts, and more, the residents of our city are primed for success,” Rep. Candelaria said. “Thank you to my colleagues, Gov. Lamont, and the State Bonding Commission for their support, and I can’t wait to see these projects come to fruition.”

“This funding, as a whole, is a win-win for the City of New Haven,” said Rep. Porter. “The upgrades and improvements to various projects will help the Elm City remain the vibrant, welcoming place the entire state of Connecticut is already proud of.”

“This funding is a step forward in our commitment to education, transportation, housing and the non-profits that provide indispensable services to the community every day,” Rep. Walker said. “I am proud of our collective work to keep New Haven on the radar for state funding. Thanks to Gov. Lamont, and the State Bonding Commission for supporting these important initiatives.”

“This bond funding of $25 million is excellent news for the City of New Haven,” said Rep. Paolillo. “All these projects in total will be of tremendous benefit to many New Haven organizations, schools, non-profits, and our residents. The positive impact is wide-ranging from funding for the Friends Center, Educational Center for the Arts, New Haven Schools and Board of Education; the Floyd Little Athletic Center to benefit positive activities and recreation; the Continuum of Care for Affordable Housing; or Haven’s Harvest to help with food recapture and address food insecurity in our community and the entire state. The amount of meaningful good that can come from this investment in our city with the approval of these funds is really immeasurable. I would like to thank Governor Lamont and the New Haven delegation for all their work in realizing the importance of funding these initiatives that address some of our most pressing issues.”

“The projects and initiatives funded by the State Bond Commission will have an incredible impact on our community, particularly for our students and many of our most vulnerable residents. Updated educational facilities, improved athletic facilities, preserved affordable housing units, and support for critical social service providers and nonprofit community organizations are all part of this $25 million investment in the Elm City,” said Mayor Justin Elicker. “I want to thank Governor Lamont, the State Bond Commission, and the New Haven delegation for supporting these projects, and I’m excited and look forward for the collective impact they will have on our city.”

“I am glad that we could work with the New Haven legislative delegation to get this funding approved for these projects that will benefit New Haven,” Governor Ned Lamont said.

Contact: Kevin Coughlin | 203-710-0193 | kevin.coughlin@cga.ct.gov

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New Haven Delegation Welcomes Over $25 Million in State Funding

Posted on June 7, 2024June 12, 2024 by Devin James

New Haven Delegation Welcomes Over $25 Million in State Funding

The bond agenda includes:

$2,648,000 to the Educational Center for the Arts for various capital upgrades
$350,000 to the Community Resources for Justice for the Family Reentry Center of New Haven for facility updates and improvements
$142,000 to the Goodwill of New Haven for a glass pulverizer
$900,000 to the Christian Community Action, Inc. for renovations to the ARISE Center in New Haven
- Renovations will allow the building to have a training space, client meeting space, offices, kitchen/dining area, and house services such as food pantry and diaper bank
$8,769,517 to the Floyd Little Athletic Center in New Haven for alterations and improvements
$7,500,000 to the City of New Haven for alterations and improvements to the Adult Education Building at 188 Bassett Street
$850,000 to Amistad School of New Haven for capital improvements
$850,000 to Elm City College Prep for capital improvements

In addition, the bond agenda will officially approve four projects previously put forth by the Community Investment Fund.

Continuum of Care Ella-Blake Project – $2,750,000
- Funds for Continuum of Care to purchase its two facilities at 977 Ella Grasso Blvd. and 163 Blake St. in order to preserve 58 units of affordable housing.
Friends Center for Children Flint Street Family Campus – $250,000
- Planning grant for community engagement and design of the Flint Street Family Campus
Haven’s Harvest Phase 2 Planning – $250,000
- Phase II Planning – funds for planning towards community engagement and a feasibility study of the intersection of its work and the needs of the community in the Fair Haven neighborhood.
New Haven Museum Planning for Lighthouse Road and Whitney Avenue – $350,000
- Planning for 325 Lighthouse Rd. and 114 Whitney Ave. – funds for community engagement, a master plan, and designs for renovations and upgrades for the museum’s two sites.

“I am glad that we could work with the New Haven legislative delegation to get this funding approved for these projects that will benefit New Haven,” Governor Ned Lamont said.

Contact: Kevin Coughlin | 203-710-0193 | kevin.coughlin@cga.ct.gov

Senator Anwar Welcomes State Grant For East Hartford Great River Park Trails

Posted on June 6, 2024 by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe O’Leary | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov | 508-479-4969

June 6, 2024

Senator Anwar Welcomes State Grant For East Hartford Great River Park Trails

State Senator Saud Anwar (D-East Hartford) welcomed this week’s announcement that East Hartford will receive a $262,750 grant through the Connecticut Recreational Trails Grant Program, which administers funds supporting planning, building, expansion and improvement of as many as 45 multi-use trails located in towns and cities throughout Connecticut.

These grants can be used for a wide variety of purposes for bikeways, walkways and greenways, with the work from these grants expected to be complete by 2027.

“It’s excellent news to know state funds will support our local trails, which provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, preservation and enjoyment of local nature, and access to fresh air,” said Sen. Anwar. “I’m grateful to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and Governor Lamont for their support of our community.”

East Hartford will receive the $262,750 grant to support improvements and enhanced connectivity to the Lower Great River Park Recreational Trail Network. Great River Park is located along the Connecticut River with views of downtown Hartford across the river, offering lighted walkways, exercise stations and public trails.

Additionally, the East Coast Greenway Alliance, Inc., which works to preserve and support the East Coast Greenway – running partially through East Hartford as it spans from Maine to Florida in interconnected trails – received $87,500 for publications and outreach in support of that greenway.

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Senator Marx Welcomes State Grant For Mitchell College, East Lyme, Old Saybrook Trails

Posted on June 6, 2024 by Devin James

June 6, 2024

Senator Marx Welcomes State Grant For Mitchell College, East Lyme, Old Saybrook Trails

State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London) welcomed the announcement this week that New London’s Mitchell College, Old Saybrook’s Saybrook Point Trail and East Lyme’s Darrow Pond will all receive grants through the Connecticut Recreational Trails Grant Program, which administers funds supporting planning, building, expansion and improvement of multi-use trails located in towns and cities throughout Connecticut.

These grants can be used for a wide variety of purposes for bikeways, walkways and greenways, with the work from these grants expected to be complete by 2027.

“Our local trails offer miles of outdoor recreation and exercise that allow us to get closer to nature and away from hustle and bustle for a few hours,” said Sen. Marx. “It’s excellent news that New London, Old Saybrook and East Lyme will all be able to improve their resources with these grants. I’m grateful to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection for their support of our communities.”

Mitchell College in New London will receive funds for trails in the Mitchell Woods with focus on accessibility. Its $396,640 grant will support planning, design, construction, maintenance and amenity work.

Old Saybrook’s Saybrook Point Trail and Education Project will receive $366,640 for planning and design, construction, maintenance, education, amenities, publications and outreach.

East Lyme will receive $36,300 for planning and design of an education, conservation and recreation center at Darrow Pond.

Contact: Joe O’Leary | 508-479-4969 | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov