Duff and Norwalk Delegation Secure Nearly $11 Million for Norwalk at State Bond Commission

Posted on May 30, 2026 by SDO Automation

Senator Duff and Norwalk Delegation Secure Nearly $11 Million for Norwalk at State Bond Commission

Investments support affordable senior housing near South Norwalk station, mental health services expansion, school upgrades, and neighborhood infrastructure

HARTFORD — Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) and the Norwalk legislative delegation today announced nearly $11 million in state investments for Norwalk approved at the May 29 meeting of the State Bond Commission. The funding supports affordable senior housing development, mental health services, charter school improvements, and sidewalk infrastructure across the city.

The approved investments include:

Sound Communities — 79 South Main Street — $6,000,000: The Bond Commission approved a combined $6 million for Sound Communities’ transit-oriented affordable senior housing development adjacent to the South Norwalk train station. The project by Sound Communities, the development arm of the Norwalk Housing Authority, received $3 million through the Community Investment Fund 2030 and an additional $3 million through the state’s Urban Development grant program. The development will bring new housing units to one of the city’s most-connected transit corridors.
Mid-Fairfield Child Guidance Center — 98 East Avenue Acquisition — $2,000,000: The Bond Commission approved $2 million through the Community Investment Fund 2030 for the Mid-Fairfield Child Guidance Center to acquire 98 East Avenue in Norwalk. The center serves more than 2,500 children, adolescents, and caregivers annually in Norwalk, with more than 70 percent of clients covered by Medicaid or uninsured.
City of Norwalk — East Rocks Road Sidewalks — $2,500,000: The Bond Commission approved $2.5 million for the replacement of sidewalks on East Rocks Road from Cannon Street to Bayne Street, improving pedestrian safety and accessibility in the neighborhood.
Side By Side Charter School — $474,078: The Bond Commission approved nearly $475,000 for capital improvements at Side By Side Charter School in Norwalk, including new heating controls and replacement of all exterior doors.

“Norwalk is growing by leaps and bounds, and today’s Bond Commission investments show what it looks like when state government shows up for this city,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk). “From affordable senior housing steps from the South Norwalk train station to expanded space for the Mid-Fairfield Child Guidance Center — which serves thousands of kids and families every year — to safer sidewalks and better school facilities, this funding touches every part of what makes Norwalk work. I want to thank Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for continuing to invest in Norwalk’s future.”

“These investments are a major win for Norwalk. Nearly $11 million in state funding will help expand affordable housing, strengthen mental health services, improve pedestrian safety, and support our schools,” said Rep. Travis Simms. “I’m proud to have worked with Senator Duff and the Norwalk Delegation to deliver resources that will have a lasting impact on residents and continue moving our city forward.”

“As Norwalk’s population expands and grows, the city needs to expand and grow with it. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their continued investment in Norwalk. These funds will greatly impact our community,” said Rep. Kadeem Roberts.

“This funding represents a vital investment in the future of our community,” said Rep. Lucy Dathan. “These projects reflect our commitment to creating opportunity, improving quality of life, and ensuring every neighborhood has the resources it needs to thrive. By supporting affordable housing development, expanding access to mental health services, improving charter school facilities, and upgrading critical sidewalk infrastructure, we are making our city safer, stronger, and more accessible for all residents.”

“Another round of significant funding is coming to Norwalk. The allocated funding our delegation secured addresses several critical community issues, from new sidewalks on busy streets, to more housing options for our families and seniors, to support for our youth-serving organizations. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for your continued investment in our city,” said Rep. Dominique Johnson.

“Thank you to Senator Duff, Governor Lamont, and the entire state delegation for advocating for $11 million in funds for Norwalk from the Bond Commission,” said Norwalk Mayor Barbara Smyth. “We are grateful for their continued partnership for our city. These funds will go a long way for senior housing, mental health resources, sidewalks, and more of the meaningful work local organizations are doing for our community.”

Stamford Delegation Applauds $15.67 Million in State Funding for Four Stamford Projects

Posted on May 29, 2026 by SDO Automation

Stamford Delegation Applauds $15.67 Million in State Funding for Four Stamford Projects

HARTFORD — Members of Stamford’s legislative delegation Friday applauded the State Bond Commission’s approval of approximately $15.67 million in funding for four Stamford projects, including three Community Investment Fund grants that will strengthen early childhood education, advance affordable housing development, and expand substance use treatment services, as well as a capital improvement grant for the Stamford Charter School for Excellence.

The four projects approved Friday are:

Stamford Charter School for Excellence: Nearly $2.42 million for renovations and improvements, covering architectural, engineering, and construction costs.
Children’s Learning Centers of Fairfield County – Grove Head Start: $7 million for building renovation and expansion of The Grove Center to strengthen early childhood education in Stamford.
St. John Urban Development Corporation – St. John Towers: $6 million for abatement and demolition of the St. John Towers property to prepare for affordable housing redevelopment.
Liberation Programs, Inc. – Liberation House: $250,000 planning grant for renovation of the first floor of Liberation House to support women in recovery from substance use disorders.

“Behind each of these investments are real Stamford residents: children, families, and women in recovery whose lives will be improved because of them,” Senator Pat Billie Miller, D-Stamford, said. “Grove Head Start gives our youngest children access to quality early learning in a facility built for their success. St. John Towers clears the path for the affordable housing opportunities our residents need and deserve. Liberation House means more women in recovery have access to the services that can change the course of their lives. And the Stamford Charter School for Excellence gets the improvements that will help its students thrive. I thank Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for their commitment to our community.”

“These continued investments in the Stamford community will pay dividends for decades to come,” Senator Ceci Maher, D-Wilton, said. “Key support for education and housing will benefit so many, now and in the future. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their commitment to our region.”

“Public dollars should deliver public good, and these investments strengthen opportunities for children and families across Stamford,” Rep. Corey Paris, D-Stamford, said. “As House Chair of the Committee on Children, I’m proud of the investments made to prepare our future generations for success, including renovations at the Stamford Charter School of Excellence and facility investments at the Grove Head Start Center.”

“I’m also grateful that Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission followed the Community Investment Funds’ recognition of the need to expand affordable housing and support women in recovery through Liberation House.”

“These vital investments will strengthen critical services and create new opportunities for Stamford residents,” said Rep. Matt Blumenthal, D-Stamford. “These initiatives expand access to early-childhood education, advance affordable-housing development, support substance-use treatment programs, and make much-needed school renovations. Thanks to the Fund and Governor Lamont for their continued partnership and commitment to Stamford’s future.”

“These projects address real needs in Stamford, including strengthening early childhood education, advancing affordable housing, and supporting women’s recovery treatment services,” said Rep. Jonathan Jacobson, D-Stamford. “We are investing in Stamford. I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for recognizing the importance of these initiatives for our city.”

“This investment supports critical services that many Stamford residents rely on. Projects including advancing affordable housing development at St. John Towers, strengthening early learning at Children’s Learning Centers of Fairfield County, investing in services at Liberation Programs Inc., and supporting renovations at the Stamford Charter School of Excellence meet the needs of our community and allow Stamford to continue to grow and thrive,” said Rep. Eilish Collins Main, D-Stamford. “Thank you to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving this funding and making a real investment in our community.”

“These investments bring real resources home to our community,” Rep. Hubert Delany, D-Stamford, said. “This funding will expand early childhood education through the Grove Head Start project, prepare the St. John Towers for future affordable housing, enhance recovery services for women through Liberation Programs, and support renovations at the Stamford Charter School for Excellence. This funding will help to create opportunities for residents and families and ensure Stamford continues to grow in a way that supports the people who live here.”

The three Community Investment Fund projects were among several CIF recommendations the board approved in March following a competitive application process. The CIF directs state bonding dollars to community-based capital projects across Connecticut.

Senator Hartley Welcomes $1 Million to Flanders Nature Center

Posted on May 29, 2026 by SDO Automation

Senator Hartley Welcomes $1 Million to Flanders Nature Center

Today, state Senator Joan Hartley (D-Waterbury) is welcoming $1 million approved by the State Bond Commission for Flanders Nature Center for renovations to its facilities in Woodbury. The investment will support the construction of a new Agricultural Education Pavilion and code compliance renovations to the center’s early childhood education program facilities.

The funding, secured through Senator Hartley’s initiative, reflects her longstanding commitment to environmental education and land conservation in the communities she serves.

“Flanders Nature Center is a treasure for Woodbury and for the entire region,” said Senator Hartley. “It has opened children’s eyes to the natural world and provides hands-on learning experiences that simply cannot be replicated in a classroom. This investment will ensure that Flanders can continue and expand that vital work for years to come, and that its youngest learners have a safe, modern facility where they can thrive.”

The funding will support two key priorities at the center. The new Agricultural Education Pavilion will create dedicated space for programming that connects children and community members to farming, food, and land stewardship, and hands-on experiences that are increasingly rare and increasingly important. Alongside the new pavilion, the grant will fund critical code compliance renovations to the facilities that house the center’s early childhood education programs, ensuring those spaces meet current safety and accessibility standards.

The effort to secure this funding drew broad community support. Waterbury and Middlebury Board members championed the project, recognizing Flanders as an invaluable regional resource. Their advocacy underscored the deep ties between the center and the communities it serves.

The Waterbury Public School students have participated in the center’s programming enriching their classroom learning with real-world environmental and agricultural experiences. That relationship has made Flanders a meaningful extension of Waterbury’s educational community, and this investment will allow that partnership to grow and serve even more students in the years ahead.

Flanders Nature Center serves as a cornerstone of environmental education and land conservation in the greater Woodbury area. Its early childhood programs introduce young learners to the natural environment at a formative age, building a foundation of environmental awareness, curiosity, and stewardship that lasts a lifetime.

The addition of an Agricultural Education Pavilion will expand the center’s capacity to offer programming that connects participants directly to sustainable farming and food production, critical knowledge in an era of growing concern about food security and environmental sustainability.

Senator Hartley Welcomes $1 Million to Flanders Nature Center

Posted on May 29, 2026 by SDO Automation

Senator Hartley Welcomes $1 Million to Flanders Nature Center

Today,state Senator Joan Hartley (D-Waterbury) is welcoming $1 million approved by the State Bond Commission for Flanders Nature Center for renovations to its facilities in Woodbury. The investment will support the construction of a new Agricultural Education Pavilion and code compliance renovations to the center’s early childhood education program facilities.

The funding, secured through Senator Hartley’s initiative, reflects her longstanding commitment to environmental education and land conservation in the communities she serves.

“Flanders Nature Center is a treasure for Woodbury and for the entire region,” saidSenator Hartley. “It has opened children’s eyes to the natural world and provides hands-on learning experiences that simply cannot be replicated in a classroom. This investment will ensure that Flanders can continue and expand that vital work for years to come, and that its youngest learners have a safe, modern facility where they can thrive.”

Senator Duff Welcomes Court Ruling Temporarily Blocking Trump Slush Fund

Posted on May 29, 2026 by SDO Automation

Senator Duff Welcomes Court Ruling Temporarily Blocking Trump Slush Fund

“A federal court did the right thing today. Whether it holds is another question. We have seen the courts cave to this regime before, and nobody should assume this ruling survives. What is at stake is $1.8 billion in hard-earned taxpayer money being handed to people guilty of corruption, people who assaulted police officers and tried to overturn a free election. We are already exploring legislation to impose a 100% state tax on any payments Connecticut residents collect from this fund. If Republican slush fund dollars begin to flow to people guilty of these crimes, we will be ready to act.”

– Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) on a federal court decision temporarily blocking the Trump administration’s so-called “Anti-Weaponization Fund.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Hugh McQuaid | hugh.mcquaid@cga.ct.gov

SENATOR MAHER ISSUES STATEMENT AS STATE BOND COMMISSION APPROVES $16.5 MILLION IN GRANTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS

Posted on May 29, 2026 by SDO Automation

SENATOR MAHER ISSUES STATEMENT AS STATE BOND COMMISSION APPROVES $16.5 MILLION IN GRANTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 29, 2026

“Our state’s continued investment in child care is heartening, as we’re making a direct commitment to supporting families while reducing the high cost and barriers to access experienced by so many parents. Today’s release of $16.5 million will go to child care providers and centers to upgrade facilities and expand the number of children served. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their quick actions and continued focus on supporting the children and families of Connecticut.”

State Senator Ceci Maher, D-Wilton, Senate Chair of the Committee on Children, after the State Bond Commission today approved $16.5 million in funds supporting child care center capital improvements and expansion to meet a goal of adding 16,000 child care spaces in the next five years.

Senator Gaston Welcomes over $47 Million in State Funding for Bridgeport

Posted on May 29, 2026 by SDO Automation

Senator Gaston Welcomes over $47 Million in Funding for Bridgeport

State Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport) is welcoming over $47 million in funding approved by the State Bond Commission for the City of Bridgeport. Funding will support investments in community health, housing, parks, and public library services.

“These investments reflect our ongoing commitment to the people of Bridgeport,” said Senator Gaston. “This will make a real difference in the daily lives of our residents. Bridgeport deserves world-class facilities, vibrant public spaces, and accessible healthcare for every resident. I am proud to have fought for these resources and I thank the State Bond Commission for their approval of this necessary investment.”

The funding includes the following:

Greater Bridgeport Community Health Center: $33.7 million
A total of $33.7 million has been allocated to the Greater Bridgeport Community Health Center, including $8.3 million for one phase of operations and $25.6 million for an additional phase, to support expanded access to quality community health services.
Optimus Health: $2.4 million
Funded through the Community Investment Fund (CIF), this investment will support major renovations at 982 East Main Street, including OB/GYN, Pediatric, and Dental facilities on the first floor. The work is designed to increase safety, accessibility, and long-term building sustainability.
Trumbull Gardens Community Center: $1.5 million
These funds have been reallocated to the Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport to support services and improvements at the Trumbull Gardens Community Center.
Sliver by the River Waterfront Park & Seawalk: $5 million
A grant-in-aid of $5 million will be provided to the City of Bridgeport to fund the Sliver by the River Waterfront Park and Phase 1 of Bridgeport’s Seawalk project along the Lower Pequonnock River, enhancing public access to the waterfront.
Lower East Side Branch Library: $2.4 million
These funds are being reallocated to the Bridgeport Public Library to support the continued development and construction of the new Lower East Side Branch Library, delivering expanded library services to the community.
Remington Site Redevelopment (812 & 889 Barnum Ave): $2 million
A grant-in-aid of $2 million will be provided to the City of Bridgeport for site redevelopment activities at the former Remington manufacturing facility located at 812 and 889 Barnum Avenue. Funds will support the reuse of the site, including the further stabilization and building rehabilitation of the historic “shot tower.”
Klein Memorial Auditorium: $246,000
A grant-in-aid of $246,000 will be provided to the Klein Memorial Auditorium to support continued construction and improvements at the facility in Bridgeport.

SENATOR SLAP ISSUES STATEMENT AS BOND COMMISSION APPROVES MYCHESLA GRAD LOAN PROGRAM FUNDING

Posted on May 29, 2026 by SDO Automation

SENATOR SLAP ISSUES STATEMENT AS BOND COMMISSION APPROVES MYCHESLA GRAD LOAN PROGRAM FUNDING

“The approval of funds for Connecticut’s grad student loan program means that thousands of nurses, teachers and social workers will have access to low-interest student loans so they can continue their careers and avoid being buried by debt. The Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee made the creation of this program a top priority this year and I’m gratified to see it get done. Thanks to Governor Lamont and members of the Bond Commission for taking action and stepping up at a time when the Trump administration and national Republicans are abandoning public servants.”

State Senator Derek Slap (D-West Hartford), Senate Chair of the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee, in response to the State Bond Commission’s May 29 release of $10 million for the MyCHESLA Grad loan program, created to fill a gap left by the impending elimination of the federal Grad PLUS loan program.

Senator Lopes Welcomes $5 Million in State Bond Funding to New Britain

Posted on May 29, 2026 by Devin James

Senator Lopes Welcomes $5 Million in State Bond Funding to New Britain

Today, state Senator Rick Lopes (D-New Britain) is welcoming funding approved by the State Bond Commission, to New Britain. Today $5 million was approved to help improve the Allen Street drainage system in New Britain.

“This project has been overdue for nearly a decade,” said Senator Lopes. “All the rain we’ve seen in recent years makes it absolutely necessary that this project gets done. New Britain residents and business owners on and around Allen Street have dealt with flooding and property damage for far too long. This funding will finally deliver the infrastructure upgrades our community deserves, and I’m proud to have fought to make it happen.”

The Allen Street Drainage Improvements and Reconstructions Phase 2 project will improve the storm and sanitary lines that are part of a system that was installed over 100 years ago. Severe flooding has been occurring every year which causes significant damage to private properties and impacts a major thoroughfare each time one of these extreme rain events occur. The project will include approximately 2,400 feet of full depth reconstruction of the lines on Allen Street between Oak Street and Stanley Street. Most of the work required is due to the fact that the sections of the existing systems are over 17 feet deep and located in areas of high ledge.

Residents and property owners along Allen Street and the surrounding neighborhoods will benefit from reduced flooding and property damage. Local businesses that depend on Allen Street as a major thoroughfare will see fewer disruptions during heavy rain events. The broader New Britain community will benefit from modernized, more resilient infrastructure capable of handling increasingly severe weather.

This project is expected to be done by Spring 2026.

EAST HARTFORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $9 MILLION IN STATE BONDING FOR RENTSCHLER FIELD, $1 MILLION FOR PARK REDEVELOPMENT

Posted on May 29, 2026 by SDO Automation

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

May 29, 2026

EAST HARTFORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $9 MILLION IN STATE BONDING FOR RENTSCHLER FIELD, $1 MILLION FOR PARK REDEVELOPMENT

Today, the East Hartford delegation of lawmakers including State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), House Majority Leader Jason Rojas (D-East Hartford, Manchester), State Representative Patrick Biggins (D-East Hartford, Manchester) and State Representative Henry Genga (D-East Hartford) welcomed a total of $10 million supporting East Hartford approved by the State Bond Commission.

The Bond Commission on May 29 approved $9 million to support renovations at Rentschler Field, including $4.25 million for field replacement, $2.5 million for scoreboard and ribbon board replacements, $2.5 million for LED bowl lighting and $250,000 for emergency/minor capital repairs.

It additionally approved $1 million for the redevelopment of Bicentennial Square Park. A town plan to rework the park’s design would include expanded programming there, more off-street parking for residents to utilize the area, and enhancements to memorials honoring local veterans.

“This funding will benefit important East Hartford landmarks, including Rentschler Field, which draws people statewide and beyond for UConn football, national and international soccer and concerts, among other events, helping our local economy in the process,” said Sen. Anwar. “In addition, redeveloping Bicentennial Square Park will allow for better access and resources for our residents. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their continued support.”

“East Hartford continues to be a destination for major events, community activity, and economic growth, and these investments help ensure that remains true for years to come,” said Majority Leader Rojas. “Upgrades at Rentschler Field will strengthen a venue that attracts visitors from across the region, while improvements to Bicentennial Square Park will enhance an important community space for residents, families, and veterans.”

“Rentschler Field is an economic and cultural asset for East Hartford, attracting entertainment and visitors who boost our economy,” Rep. Biggins said. “Ensuring its top performance benefits the entire community. I couldn’t be more pleased with the funding earmarked for the redevelopment of the tranquil Bicentennial Square Park so our residents can continue to experience and enjoy its beauty and its nearby attractions even more. I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their investment and commitment to East Hartford.”

“I am grateful to Governor Ned Lamont for securing funding to support critical upgrades and improvements at Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field, as well as the redevelopment of Bicentennial Square Park,” said Rep. Genga. “These investments will help enhance the stadium’s infrastructure and attract more events, visitors, and economic activity to Rentschler Field, providing a meaningful boost to our local economy and supporting businesses throughout the community.

At the same time, the redevelopment of Bicentennial Square Park will create an improved public space that residents and families can enjoy for years to come. Together, these projects represent an important investment in East Hartford’s future by strengthening community spaces, encouraging economic growth, and improving quality of life for our residents.”