New Haven Delegation Secures More Than $7.7 Million in State Bond Commission Funding

HARTFORD—Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney, Senator Gary Winfield, and State Representatives Pat Dillon, Roland Lemar, Juan Candelaria, Al Paolillo, Steve Winter, and Toni Walker today announced that New Haven secured more than $7.7 million in state bond funding approved by the State Bond Commission at its May 29, 2026 meeting.

The approved funding supports community development, education, parks, recreation, and nonprofit infrastructure across New Haven. The funded projects are:

Through the Community Investment Fund 2030:

• Albertus Magnus College will receive $500,000 to modernize infrastructure at the Cosgrove Marcus Messer Athletic Center, including its recreation and swimming facility.
• The City of New Haven will receive $250,000 for a planning grant to support revitalization of Ball Island as part of the Mill River Municipal Development Plan.
• Friends Center for Children, Inc. will receive $2,000,000 for a Phase II planning grant to expand childcare capacity and community assets at its Flint Street campus.
• Leadership, Education, and Athletics in Partnership, Inc. (LEAP) will receive $1,300,000 for abatement and renovation of the Roslyn M. Meyer Community Center on Jefferson Street.
• Leeway, Inc. will receive $250,000 for a planning grant to develop an integrated residential care continuum option in New Haven.

Through the Office of Policy and Management Urban Development Program:

• Friends Center for Children, Inc. will receive $1,500,000 for facility expansion and equipment.
• The City of New Haven will receive $243,000 for lighting and power access improvements at Edgewood Park.
• The City of New Haven will receive $1,000,000 for improvements to East Shore Park, including youth soccer facilities.

Through the Department of Administrative Services Charter School Capital Program:

• Amistad Academy Middle School will receive $672,079 for student bathroom renovation, alarm system upgrades, and PA system improvements.

“These investments reflect the deep and sustained commitment of the New Haven delegation to ensuring that our city’s community institutions, public spaces, and educational facilities receive the capital support they need to serve residents effectively,” said Senator Looney. “Each of these projects strengthens the fabric of New Haven and advances the goals this delegation has long championed through the Community Investment Fund and our ongoing state budget work. I am grateful to my colleagues on the State Bond Commission and to the organizations and city officials who made the case for these investments.”

“These investments reach into the everyday lives of New Haven families, from childcare and youth recreation to residential care and educational facilities,” said Senator Winfield. “That breadth reflects what this delegation has worked to build: a sustained commitment to the community institutions that make New Haven function for the people of our city. I am proud to stand with my colleagues in securing these resources.”

“Being able to follow up on the $26 million in increased State Aid at the end of the session, this new bond funding also shows our continued commitment to investing in our community and, in particular, our youth. I am very excited about East Shore Park improvements for youth soccer that I have been involved with, which will provide such a fun, positive, and safe outlet for our kids,” said Rep. Paolillo. “Whether it is schools, parks, supportive housing, or organizations like the Friends Center, I want to thank Governor Lamont, Senator Looney, and our New Haven legislative delegation for prioritizing these projects that will help improve the quality of life for New Haven residents.”

“This bonding money provides critical funds to projects in New Haven that reflect our values, including childcare expansion, infrastructure improvements, and more,” Rep. Candelaria said. “Thank you to my fellow New Haven legislators for your tireless commitment to our city, and to Gov. Lamont and the entire State Bonding Commission for approving these funds.”

“I am excited that Edgewood Park will receive funding for lighting. It will improve park safety and boost the local economy. Thank you to the State Bond Commission for this investment and all of the investments for New Haven,” said Rep. Dillon.

“These investments represent a major commitment to New Haven’s future and to the people who call our city home. From expanding access to high-quality childcare and strengthening community centers, parks, schools, and recreational facilities, these funds will help create opportunities for residents of all ages,” said Rep. Roland Lemar. “I am especially proud to see support for organizations and projects that enhance educational outcomes, promote healthy communities, and drive neighborhood revitalization. I want to thank Governor Lamont and our state partners for recognizing the importance of investing in New Haven’s families, students, and community institutions. Together, these projects will make a lasting difference and help ensure our city continues to thrive for generations to come.”

“I am fortunate to work alongside a group of experienced colleagues who understand the process in Hartford and collaborate effectively to deliver for New Haven. This funding will help meet community needs in several important areas for our residents,” said Rep. Steve Winter. “I want to thank Governor Lamont for his support and collaboration in including these items on the agenda.”