Month: September 2024

 Middletown Delegation Secures $8M for Northern Middlesex YMCA

Posted on by Devin James

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

 Middletown Delegation Secures $8M for Northern Middlesex YMCA

Today, State Senators Matt Lesser and Jan Hochadel, and State Representatives Kai Belton and Brandon Chafee welcomed $8 million in state Community Investment Fund dollars for renovations to the Northern Middlesex YMCA. This money will fund facility renovations including a focus on ADA access, creating multi-generational spaces and increasing early childhood and preschool care.

“The Northern Middlesex YMCA has been a fixture in Middletown’s downtown since it was first built in 1928,” said Sen. Matt Lesser. “The investment made today is an affirmation of the Y’s central role serving the Middlesex County area, and today’s funding is particularly important is many ways including supporting the Y’s preschool and early childhood programs which are critical for our economy. Today’s funding announcement represents the final piece in a multi-year effort, supported with generous private and corporate donations, state and federal funding, to transform Middletown’s Y to serve Middletown in the 21st century. I was present for a meeting many years ago, along with the late State Representative Q Williams, when Michele Rulnick first laid out her vision for transforming the Y and it is incredible to think that with this last major investment it is now coming to fruition.”

“Outstanding resources like the Northern Middlesex YMCA should be accessible to everyone in our community and this action by the Community Investment Fund board puts us one step closer to making that a reality by funding this critical project,” Sen. Jan Hochadel said. “Creating inclusive spaces, boosting childcare availability, and expanding ADA access will make the Y more accessible to families across the region. I’m grateful to see this investment in our future.”

“The Northern Middlesex YMCA has long been a pillar of our community, offering vital services and programs for residents of all ages. This $8 million investment is a huge win for Middletown and represents the Y’s commitment to the health, wellness, and strength of our families. I am deeply grateful to Governor Lamont and the CIF Board for this transformative funding, which will ensure the YMCA can continue to grow and serve as a place of support, connection, and opportunity for years to come,” said Rep Kai Belton.

“I am very appreciative of the CIF’s commitment to Middletown and specifically, one of its most beloved facilities, the Northern Middlesex YMCA, which will receive funding for the renovations, expansion to add ADA access, and increase childcare and preschool care,” Rep. Brandon Chafee said. “I’m confident these renovations and additions will only increase the positive impact the YMCA already has on the city and surrounding areas.”

“We are incredibly excited and grateful for this opportunity,” said Michele Rulnick, President/CEO of the Northern Middlesex YMCA. “This renovation will allow us to expand our programs and serve even more families, strengthening our commitment to a healthier, more engaged community.”

This funding supports this historic YMCA’s strategic vision to provide equitable access to programs and services for all ages that improve the quality life of the greater Middletown community. The facility renovation and expansion project will total $15 million. This project is supported through state, federal and private dollars. The CIF funding approved today will cover over half of the total cost, following $2 million in state bonding allocated in June. This spring, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro announced that she secured $1.1 million in federal Community Project Funding and the Liberty Bank Team also made a $1 million donation.

Specifically, this renovation project aims to address the following critical needs:

-Relocate the main entrance to improve accessibility and safety throughout the facility

-Add an elevator and address ADA compliance

-Modernize and enhance the energy efficiency of the facility

-Create multigenerational, multi-use spaces that inspire community building and wellness

-Dedicated, safe space for youth to socialize and engage in youth development services

-Gender-neutral changing rooms and bathrooms

-Expanded space to engage in future partnerships with community-based organizations and to grow childcare services with new preschool classrooms and infant/toddler care

-The Community Investment Fund 2030 (CIF) fosters economic development in historically underserved communities across the state. CIF will provide a total of up to $875 million to eligible municipalities as well as not-for-profit organizations and community development corporations that operate within them.

Grants are available for:
-Capital improvement programs, such as brownfield remediation, affordable housing, infrastructure, clean energy development, and home or public facility rehabilitation

-Small business capital programs, including revolving or micro loan programs, gap financing, and start-up funds to establish small businesses

-Planning for capital projects including activities such as community engagement processes, feasibility studies, development of project plan and construction budget.

SENATOR CABRERA WELCOMES VOTE SEEKING $250,000 STATE GRANT FOR HAMDEN CENTER MASTER PLAN

Posted on by Devin James

FOR IMMEDATE RELEASE

Tuesday, September 24, 2024

 

SENATOR CABRERA WELCOMES VOTE SEEKING $250,000 STATE GRANT FOR HAMDEN CENTER MASTER PLAN

HAMDEN – State Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden) today welcomed a vote by the bipartisan Community Investment Fund (CIF) 2030 board that will bring $250,000 to Hamden to help create the “Town of Hamden Town Center Master Plan.”

The CIF vote is a key step toward final approval of the plan by the State Bond Commission, which must come in the next 60 days.

Hamden’s legislative delegation – including Sen. Cabrera – wrote a letter to the CIF in June advocating for the Hamden funding, saying an updated town center master plan is “at its core about developing a vision for a more vibrant Town Center. This planning project will create a critical, and actionable, roadmap toward future possibilities and implementation ensuring that even high-level visions are grounded in reality and needs of the community.”

“With this funding, we can position Hamden for decades of prosperity and vitality,” Sen. Cabrera said. “It’s a critical first step in revitalizing and connecting our different neighborhood centers if we’re going to meet the needs of Hamden residents and businesses.”

The Community Investment Fund 2030 (CIF) was created by a bipartisan vote of the General Assembly in 2021 and is funded through state bonding.

The CIF fosters economic development in historically underserved communities across the state. The CIF will provide a total of up to $875 million to eligible municipalities as well as not-for-profit organizations and community development corporations that operate within them.

Grants are available for:

Capital improvement programs, such as brownfield remediation, affordable housing, infrastructure, clean energy development, and home or public facility rehabilitation

Small business capital programs, including revolving or micro loan programs, gap financing, and start-up funds to establish small businesses.

Planning for capital projects including activities such as community engagement processes, feasibility studies, development of project plan and construction budget.

Senator McCrory Celebrates CIF Investments in Hartford

Posted on by Devin James

Senator McCrory Celebrates CIF Investments in Hartford

Senator Doug McCrory, D-Hartford, celebrated the Community Investment Fund 2030 board’s Tuesday recommendation to dedicate millions to Hartford-based projects including funding for housing developments and accessibility upgrades to the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center.

Senator McCrory serves as a member of CIF’s board, which met Tuesday morning and recommended funding a series of projects to encourage economic development including:

  • $2 million to support the construction of 60 new affordable housing units on Barbour Street by the Mutual Housing Association of Greater Hartford.

  • $250,000 to support the planning phase of the San Juan Center’s proposed affordable housing development to be located on the corner of High Street and Albany Avenue.

  • $4.6 million to support the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center’s project to improve access to its buildings and transform its property into a green space complete with gardens, paths and seating.

“Members of our community know what they need to thrive, and this funding is about giving them the support they need to make their ideas a reality,” Senator McCrory said. “The projects we’re funding on Barbour Street, Albany Avenue, and at the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center are examples of local vision empowered to create lasting change. I’m proud to serve on the Community Investment Fund board and help direct these resources where they belong— in the hands of the people who are driving the future of Hartford.”

The Community Investment Fund 2030 (CIF) was created by a bipartisan vote of the General Assembly in 2021, and is funded through state bonding.

Tuesday’s CIF vote is a key step toward final approval of the plan by the State Bond Commission, which must come in the next 60 days.

The CIF fosters economic development in historically underserved communities across the state. CIF will provide a total of up to $875 million to eligible municipalities as well as not-for-profit organizations and community development corporations that operate within them.

Grants are available for:

  • Capital improvement programs, such as brownfield remediation, affordable housing, infrastructure, clean energy development, and home or public facility rehabilitation

  • Small business capital programs, including revolving or micro loan programs, gap financing, and start-up funds to establish small businesses

  • Planning for capital projects including activities such as community engagement processes, feasibility studies, development of project plan and construction budget.
Contact: Hugh McQuaid | Hugh.McQuaid@cga.ct.gov | 860-634-4651

Senator Gaston, Stratford Delegation Celebrates $2 Million Being Allocated to Project in Stratford 

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Gaston, Stratford Delegation Celebrates $2 Million Being Allocated to Project in Stratford 

Today, state Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport) and the Stratford Delegation is celebrating funds being released to Stratford during the Community Investment Fund meet. African American Collections, Inc applied for Community Investment Funds (CIF) that will help rehabilitate 2225 Main Street in Stratford.

The CIF is awarding $2,000,000 to help with the Rehabilitation of the Sterling Homestead for relocation of the Ruby & Calvin Fletcher African American History Museum. The Museum has outgrown its temporary East Broadway location and was invited by Stratford to relocate to their newly acquired 10,000-sq.-ft. Sterling Homestead on Main Street. The building rehab project includes a new HVAC system, roof, plumbing, electrical, kitchen/warming center for events, fire/burglar alarm systems, restoring rotting and missing clapboard siding, and trim, repurposing exterior and interior walls and ceilings with painting, accessible bathrooms, exterior wall and attic insulation, ADA ramps, additional parking spaces, and an elevator.

“This museum is more then just a collection of artifacts, it provides a rich history and is a testament to the resilience, achievements, and contributions of African Americans,” said Sen. Gaston. “This museum serves as a space to offer reflection, education and pride. I am deeply proud this funding will work to support the continued rehabilitation of relocating the Ruby & Calvin Fletcher African American History Museum.”

“Working on this project with Jeffrey Fletcher over the past few years has been a pleasure,” Rep. Joseph Gresko said. “Moving the Fletcher African American Museum to the heart of Stratford’s historic district is a great success. Everyone who worked on this project should be proud.”

“It is incredibly important that this funding injection benefit the Ruby & Calvin Fletcher African American History Museum,” said Rep. Ben McGorty. “This space does an excellent job at illustrating a notable and troubling part of our nation’s history. This state grant will be integral in maintaining the Museum’s commitment to educating further generations.”

“Securing a sustainable future must begin with preserving and protecting our history,” Representative Laura Dancho (R-120) said. “I am grateful to see a significant investment in two Stratford landmarks that tell important stories about local culture. With this expected funding, both the Sterling Homestead and the Ruby & Calvin Fletcher African American History Museum can continue to educate and remind us about the role our community has played in Connecticut’s development.”

“It’s wonderful news,” said Senator Kevin Kelly (R-Stratford). “The Ruby and Calvin Fletcher African American History Museum is the first museum of its kind in New England. It is a chronological and educational journey that starts at the continent of Africa and takes small steps through various points in African American History. Stratford is very blessed to have this impactful and provocative museum right here in our town which shares both difficult and empowering pieces of our nation’s history. I thank the entire Stratford delegation for working as a team in advocating consistently for this worthy project, and I thank the governor for recognizing the long-term value of this significant state investment.”

The Ruby & Fletcher African American Museum, which is the first African American history museum in the state, was being moved into the childhood home of John William Sterling, the namesake of Yale’s Sterling Memorial Library. The Museum displays a wide collection of artifacts dating from the Atlantic slave trade to the Jim Crow South. The organization serves individuals, including students and teachers, affording them an opportunity to learn about African American culture by seeing historic artifacts up close and personal.

The Community Investment Fund 2030 (CIF) was created by a bipartisan vote of the General Assembly in 2021 and is funded through state bonding.

The CIF fosters economic development in historically underserved communities across the state. CIF will provide a total of up to $875 million to eligible municipalities as well as not-for-profit organizations and community development corporations that operate within them.

Grants are available for:

Capital improvement programs, such as brownfield remediation, affordable housing, infrastructure, clean energy development, and home or public facility rehabilitation

Small business capital programs, including revolving or micro loan programs, gap financing, and start-up funds to establish small businesses

Planning for capital projects including activities such as community engagement processes, feasibility studies, development of project plan and construction budget

Senator Duff, Norwalk Delegation Celebrates $6 Million Being Allocated to Projects in Norwalk

Posted on by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Senator Duff, Norwalk Delegation Celebrates $6 Million Being Allocated to Projects in Norwalk

Today, Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), board member of the Community Investment Fund (CIF), and the Norwalk Delegation are celebrating funds being approved for Norwalk during the Community Investment Fund meeting. The state funding will help improve the area near South Norwalk Elementary School and support renovations at the Carver Center.

The CIF is awarding $2.5 million to help with the construction of a roundabout at the South Norwalk Elementary School. The roundabout will moderate traffic speeds and provide better safety for pedestrian traffic destined for the school.

The CIF is also awarding $3.5 million to the Carver Center to help with renovations to expand the center, make it ADA accessible, and provide security upgrades. CIF funds will be used to renovate and bring the center up to code by enlarging the footprint to accommodate an elevator, a separate code-compliant egress, and a new secure entrance. Also, bathrooms will be renovated, modernized, and brought up to code compliance.

“Currently, the intersection near the elementary school is configured as two very closely-spaced intersections causing terrible traffic and safety issues,” said Sen. Duff. “This funding will help to accommodate walkers and bicyclists while easing traffic that causes delays during the morning commute. Investing in a roundabout near our elementary school protects drivers, children, and parents as they head to and from school. I am also grateful the Carver Center will receive well-deserved funding. The Carver provides many critical services and educational opportunities for Norwalk children. With these renovations, the center will be able to continue its great work for the next generation of Norwalkers.”

“The City of Norwalk is incredibly grateful to Governor Lamont and Senator Duff for continuing to invest in Norwalk’s youth and the South Neighborhood community through a $2.5 million Community Investment Fund grant that will go towards construction of a roundabout at the new South Norwalk School,” said Mayor Harry Rilling. “This project will help improve safety for all roadway users, particularly our students, when they enter this brand-new state-of-the-art school, by promoting lower speeds, safe pedestrian crossing, and traffic calming around the area. Earlier this year, we held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new South Norwalk school, the community’s first neighborhood school in over 40 years. The South Norwalk neighborhood school is also the City’s first new school construction project under the new state reimbursement rate of 60%, saving the City millions of dollars and a testament to the State’s fierce commitment to transformational education projects.”

“We deeply appreciate the efforts of Senator Bob Duff in securing funds for vital road safety features around the new South Norwalk Elementary School,” said Dr. Alexandra Estrella, Superintendent of Norwalk Public Schools. “His leadership ensures a safer environment for our students, families, and community as they navigate through the school zone. We thank him for his ongoing support as we bring South Norwalk its first neighborhood school in over 40 years.”

“We are incredibly grateful to the Board Members of the Community Investment Fund for their generous approval of our $3.5 million request to accomplish these crucial renovations to the Carver Community Center,” said the Executive Director of The Carver, Novelette Peterkin. “This funding is a game-changer for youth and families of Norwalk. It will allow the Carver Community Center to continue to be a vibrant and safe space for learning, enrichment, and growth. We especially want to thank Senator Bob Duff, a longtime advocate for Carver and the Norwalk community, for his steadfast support and leadership in championing our mission. We also want to thank our Norwalk Delegation for their inspiring commitment through the years to the well-being of our city’s children and families.”

“Both of these projects reflect our continued efforts to build safer and more inclusive communities,” State Rep. Lucy Dathan (Norwalk) said. “Improving traffic flow during busy drop-off and pick-up times at South Norwalk Elementary is critical for everyone’s safety. And making needed upgrades to the Carver Center will be a great benefit to members of our community using this facility to enjoy everything the center has to offer. I am proud of our collective delegation work delivering these two important projects to the district.”

“I am excited to see these significant investments in our community,” State Representative Travis Simms said. “The $2.5million for the South Norwalk Elementary School Area Improvements and the $3.5million for the Carver Center’s renovation are vital steps forward. These projects will enhance safety, accessibility, and security for our residents. I am optimistic that these improvements will make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students, families, and community members, and I fully support the positive impact they will bring to South Norwalk.”

“I am grateful for the funding that is being awarded to Norwalk,” State Rep. Kadeem Roberts said. “Once the projects that received the money allocated by CIF are completed, their benefit will be immediate and far reaching throughout our community. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the CIF board for their consideration.”

“Smart infrastructure investments like these to increase access and provide better safety and security for our public spaces are great for the entire community as they create a more welcoming environment and foster a sense of inclusion,” State Rep. Tracy Marra said. “I want to thank the CIF for continuing to provide important funding for these critical projects that make Norwalk an even friendlier, more accessible city.”

“Thank you to Governor Lamont and the CIF board for approving funds that will greatly benefit our city,” State Rep. Dominique Johnson said. “The Carter Center is an excellent resource for Norwalk residents, and the allocated funds will ensure it continues to be a safe and accessible place for all members of our community. The funding for the roundabout at South Norwalk Elementary will help ease traffic burdens during pick up and drop off and keep students safe on their way to and from school. I am grateful for this funding and look forward to the completion of both projects.”

The City of Norwalk is building the new South Norwalk Elementary School at 1 Meadow Street Extension, immediately adjacent to the Intersection. The school will be the first full-service elementary school in South Norwalk and will provide much-needed educational services to this historically disadvantaged neighborhood. The school is currently under construction and plans to open in Fall 2025.

The Carver Community Center, established in 1975, serves as a hub for youth development and community engagement. Youth sports programs foster teamwork and athletic skills. Community and educational initiatives provide educational enrichment, mentorship, and violence prevention. The Carver’s mission is to equip all learners for global competitiveness by leading strategic partnerships with schools and communities that advance excellence and growth opportunities. Carver provides over 60 programs, including before-school, after-school, summer, and community initiatives across K-12 public schools in Norwalk, Side by Side Charter School, and the Carver Community Center. The programming aligns with the in-school curriculum, led by daytime certified teachers, ensuring students advance to the next grade on time and well-prepared.

The Community Investment Fund 2030 (CIF) was created by a bipartisan vote of the General Assembly in 2021 and is funded through state bonding.

The CIF fosters economic development in historically underserved communities across the state. CIF will provide a total of up to $875 million to eligible municipalities as well as not-for-profit organizations and community development corporations that operate within them.

Grants are available for:

·      Capital improvement programs, such as brownfield remediation, affordable housing, infrastructure, clean energy development, and home or public facility rehabilitation

·      Small business capital programs, including revolving or micro loan programs, gap financing, and start-up funds to establish small businesses

·      Planning for capital projects including activities such as community engagement processes, feasibility studies, development of project plan and construction budget

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

STATE SENATOR MARTHA MARX WELCOMES $750,000 IN COMMUNITY INVESTMENT FUND SUPPORT FOR NEW LONDON, MONTVILLE

Posted on by Devin James
Contact: Joe O’Leary | 508-479-4969 | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov
SEPTEMBER 24, 2024

STATE SENATOR MARTHA MARX WELCOMES $750,000 IN COMMUNITY INVESTMENT FUND SUPPORT FOR NEW LONDON, MONTVILLE

State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London) welcomed today’s announcement that the Community Investment Fund will provide $750,000 in funds to support New London and Montville. New London received funds for planning for renovations at Gordon Court and funds supporting the Southeastern Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc.’s New London Recovery Community. Montville received a grant for an investment plan for Route 32.

“It’s wonderful news that our region will receive this important funding for community-supporting projects like these,” said Sen. Marx. “I’m grateful to the Community Investment Fund’s leadership for their vision and dedication to our state’s cities and towns, as these projects offer new resources and relief for local residents.”

The CIF will release $250,000 for each of the three projects. Planning at Gordon Court is coming after the New London Housing Authority is seeking to replace an existing apartment complex with a new structure with 84 apartments to meet the needs of senior and disabled residents. The New London Recovery Community offers aid and recovery resources to people suffering from addiction and their family, friends and allies.

The Montville funding will support studying of development opportunities along Routes 32 and 163, seeking ways to create housing to support local businesses and local residents.

The Community Investment Fund 2030 (CIF) fosters economic development in historically underserved communities across the state. CIF will provide a total of up to $875 million to eligible municipalities as well as not-for-profit organizations and community development corporations that operate within them.

Grants are available for capital improvement programs, such as brownfield remediation, affordable housing and home or public facility rehabilitation; small business capital programs, including revolving or micro loan programs, gap financing, and start-up funds; and planning for capital projects including activities such as community engagement processes and feasibility studies.

EAST HARTFORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $1.5 MILLION IN COMMUNITY INVESTMENT FUND SUPPORT FOR MAIN STREET REDESIGN

Posted on by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe O’Leary | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov | 508-479-4969
September 24, 2024

EAST HARTFORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $1.5 MILLION IN COMMUNITY INVESTMENT FUND SUPPORT FOR MAIN STREET REDESIGN

Today, the East Hartford Delegation of lawmakers welcomed the Community Investment Fund’s allocation of $1.5 million to support redesign efforts for East Hartford’s Main Street. The funding will specifically support design efforts for Main Street improvements, as well as site acquisition in the area.

While there is no management program in place at this time for Main Street, this funding will support efforts for the redesign of the area to support business development, traffic improvements and potential town acquisition of buildings in the area for demolition or redevelopment. Recent studies have indicated redevelopments could include the use of a new bridge in town connecting Hartford and East Hartford, among other changes, and have spurred thoughts on how the town can best approach changing needs.

“I welcome this funding to help us re-envision our Main Street in East Hartford that will support the investments made by current property owners and businesses and make the area more attractive for economic development,” House Majority Leader Jason Rojas (D-East Hartford) said. “As a member of the Community Investment Fund Board I want to thank Speaker Ritter, Senate President Looney and Governor Lamont for prioritizing this effort,” Majority Leader Jason Rojas said.

“I’m pleased to hear of this grant funding and support for our region,” said State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor). “Pursuing the redesign of East Hartford’s main road could lead to significant improvements in the future. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the CIF’s leadership for their support of our region.”

“Whether it’s a redesign, redevelopment or reimagination, I am proud of the collaboration between the East Hartford legislative delegation and Mayor Connor Martin to push for the brightest possible future for our Main Street,” said State Representative Jeff Currey (D-East Hartford, Manchester). “I am grateful for the recognition and support from the CIF Board in this effort.”

“This is a tremendous victory for East Hartford. I can’t wait for our community to reap the benefits of this investment. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the CIF leadership board for their support,” said State Representative Henry Genga (D-East Hartford).

The Community Investment Fund 2030 (CIF) fosters economic development in historically underserved communities across the state. CIF will provide a total of up to $875 million to eligible municipalities as well as not-for-profit organizations and community development corporations that operate within them.

Grants are available for capital improvement programs, such as brownfield remediation, affordable housing and home or public facility rehabilitation; small business capital programs, including revolving or micro loan programs, gap financing, and start-up funds; and planning for capital projects including activities such as community engagement processes and feasibility studies.

State Forensic Lab Marks Advances During National Forensic Science Week

Posted on by Devin James

State Forensic Lab Marks Advances During National Forensic Science Week

A recent visit by James Tillman to the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) Forensic Laboratory in Meriden served as a stark reminder of just how far forensic science has come in recent decades, and how state-funded improvements to the lab have eradicated a backlog of cases and are helping to solve new crimes.

Tillman was falsely convicted on sexual assault and kidnapping charges in 1989 but was released from prison in 2006 with help from the Connecticut Innocence Project and after advanced DNA testing was conducted at the forensic lab.

“I lived a life unimaginable for some people,” Tillman told a gathering marking National Forensic Science Week at the state’s forensic lab in Meriden. “I always wanted to come here. This was on my bucket list to be here. This is where it all happened. I thank law enforcement for their job. I know things don’t go the way they are supposed to go all the time, but through science it makes it easier for them to get it right.”

State Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commissioner Ronnell A. Higgins said the lab’s advanced DNA testing proved Tillman could not have committed the crime for which he was wrongly convicted.

“I am renewed by our belief in the highest standards – and the best science – as we work every day to analyze evidence and provide the best investigative leads we can to our law enforcement officers,’ Higgins said.

The DESPP Forensic Science Laboratory is charged with:
· Examining physical evidence submitted by criminal case investigators
· Assisting state and local law enforcement agencies with criminal investigations and crime scene processing
· Providing forensic and technical training and education for law enforcement agencies and the community
· Conducting scientific and technical research

The laboratory is staffed with administrative and scientific personnel who handle various forensic disciplines like arson, biochemistry, chemistry, DNA, documents, firearms and toolmarks, fingerprints, image analysis, imprints, instrumentation, photography, reconstruction, and trace.

Perhaps most importantly, in the last 10 years, the forensic lab has cleared a backlog of 12,000 cases and reduced the case investigation time from two-and-a-half years to less than 60 days. The lab’s “Rapid DNA” program offers around-the-clock access for police investigations, utilizing forensic genealogy and DNA analysis to resolve long standing cold cases. Additionally, the lab recently achieved a perfect score on its accreditation.

In June 2023, the State Bond Commission approved another $1.5 million in renovations to the lab, and $1.2 million for a building load generator installation.

The DESPP Division of Scientific Services began its history as the Connecticut State Police Bureau of Identification, which operated from 1935 to 1975 in the Troop I Barracks in Bethany. The forensic services provided then by the troopers were limited to photography, fingerprints and firearms examination.

Posted by Lawrence Cook

Senator Hochadel Celebrates National Recognition of Meriden’s Israel Putnam Elementary

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Hochadel Celebrates National Recognition of Meriden’s Israel Putnam Elementary

Senator Jan Hochadel, D-Meriden, welcomed news Monday that Meriden’s Israel Putnam Elementary School had been named as a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School — an annual award given to schools that show outstanding performance or success in closing achievement gaps.

“As a former teacher, I’m overjoyed to see the students, educators, and support staff of Israel Putnam Elementary recognized for their hard work and dedication,” Senator Hochadel said. “This honor puts a Meriden school among a select group across the nation and everyone in our city should be proud of what these students and the school community has accomplished.”

National Blue Ribbon School awards are granted by the U.S. Department of Education, which recognized Israel Putnam Elementary’s exemplary accomplishments in closing achievement gaps.

The school serves 482 students, of which about 80% are eligible for free or reduced price meals while 19% are multi-language learners. Israel Putnam students ranked in the top 10% of growth in mathematics, both for high needs students and for all students, and achieved about 88% of their growth targets in 2022-2023.

Israel Putnam Elementary was one of just three schools across Connecticut to earn the award this year. Daniel Hand High School in Madison and Sunnyside Elementary in Shelton were also named.

All three schools were nominated for the award by the State Department of Education, which based its choices off 2022-2023 data from the Next Generation Accountability System.

“Connecticut’s public schools are considered among the best in the nation, and that is because of the top-quality teachers and staff in our school systems who provide a high level of learning that is helping our students achieve success,” Gov. Ned Lamont said. “Every child deserves access to a quality education that prepares them for achievement. There’s no doubt that we must continue working to close persistent achievement gaps, but I firmly believe that the strong work of so many of our educators is having an impact. I congratulate these three public schools in Madison, Meriden, and Shelton on earning this national distinction and I wish them continued success.”

“The Connecticut State Department of Education congratulates all of the schools named 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools,” Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker said. “These schools exemplify Connecticut’s dedication to fostering educational environments where all students can thrive and reach their full potential, preparing them for academic success as well as life and work beyond school. Congratulations to the students, educators, and school leaders on this prestigious honor and for their continued pursuit of excellence.”

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

State Officials Remind Motorists to Move Over to Save ‘Real Lives’

Posted on by Devin James

State Officials Remind Motorists to Move Over to Save ‘Real Lives’

The Department of Transportation’s Highway Safety Office has started a new public service announcement campaign, meant to remind drivers about the “Real Lives” at risk if they don’t comply with the state’s Move Over law.

Connecticut’s Move Over law is one of the strongest and most thorough in the United States, as it does not just require drivers to move over if there is an emergency vehicle stopped on the roadside, but for any vehicles on the side of the road. The law applies to all highways and side roads in Connecticut, including one-lane roads. If a driver cannot change lanes or is driving on a one-lane road, drivers must instead slow down and exercise caution in the process.

Sen. Norm Needleman, D-Essex, stressed the importance of the law during a Thursday event with Colchester emergency responders.

“There’s good reason why moving over for traffic was made law – it protects workers and prevents serious injury and death in the event of crashes,” Needleman said. “I’m proud to be here today with our state and local leaders to make sure those who need space will get it, and to help make sure we see fewer avoidable crashes on the side of the road.”

On an annual basis, Connecticut first responders rush to the scenes of more than 100,000 motor vehicle crashes just within state lines. On a national basis, since 2020, roughly 40 crash responders are killed in the line of duty per year, according to the Highway Safety Office.

Violators can face significant fines, especially if their actions lead to crashes, injury or death. A normal violation is an infraction, but a crash resulting in the injury of emergency personnel can see fines climb to $2,500, and a crash resulting in a fatality can lead to a fine of up to $10,000 and potential criminal charges.

While Connecticut first passed its Move Over law in 2009 and expanded it in 2017, unfortunately, the state continues to experience roadside crashes. From 2017 to 2021, 16 people lost their lives in roadside crashes in Connecticut, with 13 of those deaths happening after sunset on dark roadways. Those statistics prompted lawmakers to update the policy again in 2023, ensuring all roads were considered in its language.

The new campaign is designed to remind drivers that motorists can be parked on the side of roadways for any variety of reasons, including Department of Transportation crews and construction workers performing roadwork, tow operators hooking up damaged or malfunctioning vehicles and emergency responders who have pulled over other motorists or are assisting someone in need.

Drivers who see a vehicle stopped on or next to a roadway should immediately try to slow down within reason and move over to a lane that would give the vehicle extra space. If they cannot move over safely, they should slow down and proceed with caution – but the DOT reminded drivers not to stop, as that can compound and worsen traffic issues and lead to further damage.

Posted By Joe O’Leary