New Haven Delegation Announces State Funding for Five Local Projects

Posted on September 8, 2026September 8, 2026 by SDO Automation

New Haven Delegation Announces State Funding for Five Local Projects

HARTFORD — Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven), State Senator Gary Winfield (D-New Haven), and State Representatives Pat Dillon, Roland Lemar, Juan Candelaria, Al Paolillo, Steve Winter, and Toni Walker today announced that five New Haven projects received a combined $1.65 million in state funding at the September 8, 2026 meeting of the State Bond Commission.

The funding, approved through grants-in-aid administered by the Office of Policy and Management, the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, and the Department of Housing, will support improvements to city parks and shoreline facilities, expanded senior and youth programming, and affordable housing development in neighborhoods across the city.

The funded New Haven projects are:

The City of New Haven will receive $750,000 for improvements to the bathhouse and other facilities at Lighthouse Point Park.
Believe in Me Empowerment Corporation of New Haven will receive $300,000 for an affordable housing project.
The City of New Haven will receive $250,000 for Phase II of improvements to Quinnipiac River Park.
The City of New Haven will receive $250,000 for interior renovations supporting senior and youth programming at the Atwater Senior Center.
The City of New Haven will receive $100,000 for improvements to Wooster Park.

“Each of these projects strengthens the fabric of New Haven and reflects our continuing commitment to ensuring that every resident has a safe and stable place to call home. Public spaces and community institutions are what hold our neighborhoods together, and it is the responsibility of state government to invest in them. I am grateful to Governor Lamont and our entire New Haven delegation for their partnership in securing this funding,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney.

“Improving these spaces means safer and more welcoming places for New Haven families, and the investment in an affordable housing project speaks directly to one of the most urgent challenges our residents face. When we invest in our parks, in programming for our seniors and young people, and in housing, we are investing in the quality of life and the dignity of everyone who calls New Haven home. I thank Senator Looney, my colleagues in the delegation, and Governor Lamont for their work in delivering these resources for New Haven,” said State Senator Gary Winfield.

“Each of these projects helps our great city in a unique way, whether it’s improving our parks to enhance the experience for residents and visitors, providing engaging programming for our youth and seniors, or continuing to address the critical need for housing in our state. Thank you to my legislative colleagues for their efforts, and to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their continued support of New Haven,” said State Rep. Juan Candelaria.

“Investing in New Haven’s neighborhoods is about creating communities where families can thrive and every resident has the opportunity to feel safe, supported, and at home. From revitalizing parks and strengthening programs for seniors and young people to expanding affordable housing, these investments address critical needs while improving quality of life. Public spaces, community institutions, and stable housing are the foundation of strong neighborhoods, and state government has a responsibility to invest in the people and places that hold our communities together,” said Rep. Roland Lemar

“I’m extremely thankful this funding has been approved for these five projects in New Haven,” said Rep. Al Paolillo. “Especially for the timely approval of funding for the Lighthouse Point Park that suffered recent storm damage; in Fort Wooster Park as well. When the governor came out to assess the damage, it made a big difference having a full team effort led by Senator Looney and members of the New Haven delegation. All of these projects as a whole will help benefit the quality of life in New Haven for residents. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for seeing the importance of these projects and approving the funding for them.”

“These projects represent meaningful investments in New Haven and in the people who call our city home. Strong neighborhoods depend on safe housing, vibrant public spaces, and community institutions that bring residents together. State government has an important role to play in supporting and strengthening these shared resources. I join my colleagues in thanking Governor Lamont for working together to make this funding possible,” Rep. Toni Walker said.

“These investments will make a real difference in New Haven by strengthening the neighborhoods and communities where people live, work, and raise their families. Quality housing, welcoming public spaces, and strong community institutions are essential to creating neighborhoods where residents can thrive. My thanks go out to Governor Lamont for prioritizing these projects and my colleagues for their partnership in securing this funding for New Haven,” said Rep. Steve Winter.

“Our city parks and public spaces are vital community hubs where New Haven residents go every day to gather, play, exercise, relax and enjoy nature. Investments in our parks and public facilities enhance our residents’ quality of life and strengthen our neighborhoods. These funds supporting improvements and renovations at Lighthouse Point Park, Quinnipiac River Park, Wooster Square Park and Atwater Senior Center will go a long way towards ensuring these parks and locations better serve New Haven children, youth, adults, seniors and families,” said New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker. “I want to thank Governor Lamont, Senator Looney, Speaker Ritter and the entire New Haven State Delegation for their advocacy and support of these critical projects.”

“These projects are each focused on making infrastructure improvements to facilities throughout New Haven that improve quality of life and strengthen neighborhoods,” Governor Ned Lamont said. “I am glad that we could partner with the City of New Haven and the legislative delegation to get these funds released.”

Senator Duff & Norwalk Delegation Secure $6.2 Million for Flood Relief, Meeting House, & Local Roads

Posted on September 8, 2026 by SDO Automation

Senator Duff & Norwalk Delegation Secure $6.2 Million for Flood Relief, Meeting House, & Local Roads

HARTFORD — The State Bond Commission’s September 8 agenda includes grants-in-aid to the City of Norwalk totaling more than $6.2 million, funding that Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) and Norwalk’s Democratic state legislative delegation have advocated for on the city’s behalf. The package directs $4.7 million to flood mitigation in the New Canaan Avenue and Ponus Avenue area, $300,000 to the restoration of the historic West Norwalk Meeting House, and $1,234,725 in Town Aid Road funding for local road maintenance and improvements.

Flood mitigation in the New Canaan Avenue and Ponus Avenue area ($4.7 million): Administered through the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, this grant will fund infrastructure to address the flooding that has affected homes, streets and businesses in the area during heavy storms. The funding is aimed at helping the neighborhood better manage severe weather and reduce the flooding that residents have dealt with for years.

West Norwalk Meeting House restoration ($300,000): Administered through the Department of Economic and Community Development, this grant will support foundation work, HVAC improvements, exterior repair and painting, and the installation of a new handicap-accessible ramp, preserving a community landmark and making it accessible to everyone.

Town Aid Road funding ($1,234,725): Administered through the Connecticut Department of Transportation, this money goes directly to Norwalk to maintain and improve local roads, with no local match required. The city decides which projects to fund, and eligible work ranges from road reconstruction and paving to bridge repair, snow plowing and sanding, tree trimming, and the upkeep of traffic signs and signals. The grant helps Norwalk keep the streets residents use every day safe and in good repair.

“For years, families in the New Canaan Avenue and Ponus Avenue area have watched the water rise every time a big storm rolls through. This funding will protect their homes, their streets, and their neighborhood from the kind of severe weather we are seeing more and more of along the Sound,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff. “And restoring the West Norwalk Meeting House brings a piece of our history back to life and, with a new accessible ramp, opens its doors to everyone. It also strengthens the local roads families drive every day, to work, to school, and to practice, with more than $1.2 million to keep them paved, plowed, and safe. Norwalk keeps growing, and this is how we keep our city safe, welcoming, and moving forward. I want to thank Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for standing with Norwalk, and I’m proud to have fought for this alongside our whole delegation.”

“This is wonderful news for Norwalk. West Norwalk Meeting House is an important cultural institution, and this much needed financial boost will greatly benefit their restoration project. I am also elated that the City received a grant to address flooding in the New Canaan/ Ponus Ave. area. As storms become more frequent, it is of the utmost importance that we improve our infrastructure to ensure all of our residents are safe and protected. Thank you to the bond commission for this round of funding,” said Rep. Roberts.

“This $5 million investment is about protecting Norwalk’s residents while preserving an important part of our city’s history. The $4.7 million for the New Canaan Avenue and Ponus Avenue area will allow us to address chronic flooding with infrastructure improvements designed to better protect homes, businesses and our roadways during severe storms. Residents should not have to live with the uncertainty and financial burden that repeated flooding can bring. The additional $300,000 for the West Norwalk Meeting House will help preserve a historic community landmark while making needed improvements, including greater accessibility. These are the types of state investments that have a direct and lasting impact on the quality of life in our neighborhoods. I appreciate Governor Lamont, the State Bond Commission, Senator Duff and my colleagues in the Norwalk delegation for continuing to work together to bring state resources back to our city,” said Rep. Travis Simms.

“Thank you to Governor Lamont and the bond commission for your continued investment in Norwalk. The neighborhood near New Canaan and Ponus Avenue is susceptible to flooding, and because of an increase in rainfall, this issue is constantly impacting residents and businesses in the area. This funding will provide much needed relief and will keep everyone safe. I am also thrilled that the West Norwalk Meeting House will receive funding to continue their restoration project,” said Rep. Johnson.

“I am grateful that this critical investment in flood mitigation for New Canaan and Ponus Avenues is part of the bonding agenda,” said Rep. Lucy Dathan (D-Norwalk/New Canaan). “This project will strengthen our communities, protect homes and businesses, and enhance our long-term resilience to extreme weather events. Taking proactive steps to address flood risks and ensuring that our infrastructure is better prepared to withstand future challenges is what responsible leadership and a commitment to our communities are all about.”

“This $4.7 million in state funding is a major investment in protecting our neighborhoods and addressing the flooding challenges that have impacted residents in the New Canaan Avenue and Ponus Avenue area for far too long,” said Mayor Barbara Smyth. “This project represents an important step forward in building the infrastructure Norwalk needs to better manage severe weather and reduce flooding. I am incredibly grateful to Senator Bob Duff for his continued advocacy and partnership in securing this critical funding for our community.”

The flood mitigation and Meeting House grants are part of the Office of Policy and Management’s grants-in-aid for urban development on the September 8 Bond Commission agenda. The $1,234,725 Town Aid Road grant is distributed to Norwalk through the Connecticut Department of Transportation and requires no local match. All three items are directed to the City of Norwalk.

Senator Honig, Representative Osborne Welcome $1.6 Million Grant For Eno Memorial Hall In Simsbury Through State Bond Commission

Posted on September 8, 2026 by SDO Automation

Senator Honig, Representative Osborne Welcome $1.6 Million Grant For Eno Memorial Hall In Simsbury Through State Bond Commission

September 8, 2026

Today, State Senator Paul Honig (D-Torrington) and State Representative Melissa Osborne (D-Simsbury) welcomed the state’s announcement of a $1.6 million grant supporting repairs to Eno Memorial Hall in Simsbury through the State Bond Commission.

The grant, approved at the Bond Commission’s September 8 meeting, will support enhancements including a roof replacement and a new HVAC system at the hall.

The Eno Memorial Hall hosts the town’s Senior Center and serves as a gathering space, performing arts venue and home to the Daughters of the American Revolution.

“For generations, the Eno Memorial Hall has supported the Simsbury community, bringing residents together and fostering new connections,” said Sen. Honig. “These upgrades will keep it in good shape, supporting residents for decades to come and ensuring comfortable conditions inside. I’m excited to see this work underway and am grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support.”

“Eno Memorial Hall plays an important role in the Simsbury community, and this critical funding will preserve this historic landmark for years to come. These improvements will continue to ensure that Eno remains a vibrant hub for the Simsbury Senior Center, Simsbury Community Media, and the many residents and organizations who rely on this space,” said Rep. Osborne. “I am deeply grateful to Senator Paul Honig for his advocacy on behalf of Simsbury, as well as Governor Ned Lamont, House Speaker Matt Ritter, House Majority Leader Jason Rojas, and the State Bond Commission for recognizing the importance of this project and continuing to invest in the future of our community.”

Sen. Honig and Rep. Osborne helped secure the grant for the Memorial Hall, which is a National Register of Historic Places landmark and has stood as a community gathering point since 1932. Its HVAC system and roof are both nearing their end-of-life and need critical work to keep the Senior Center operating.

The grant supports efforts to revitalize Simsbury, following upgrades to local entrances, parking lots, street parking and street conversion.

This project is expected to be complete in November 2028 and has a total cost of $5.6 million, with additional financial support coming from Simsbury and the Eno Wood Memorial Trust.

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

SENATOR ANWAR ISSUES STATEMENT AS STATE BOND COMMISSION RELEASES $25 MILLION TO SUPPORT CRUMBLING FOUNDATIONS

Posted on September 8, 2026 by SDO Automation

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

September 8, 2026

SENATOR ANWAR ISSUES STATEMENT AS STATE BOND COMMISSION RELEASES $25 MILLION TO SUPPORT CRUMBLING FOUNDATIONS

Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), a co-chair of the Crumbling Foundations Caucus, released the following statement as the State Bond Commission released $25 million to support the Connecticut Foundation Solutions Indemnity Company, Inc.’s Crumbling Foundations Assistance Fund:

“For more than a decade now, the issue of crumbling foundations has negatively impacted countless homeowners throughout north-central Connecticut, and these funds represent our state’s continued response to support them. This ticking time bomb sitting in so many homes’ foundations has harmed so many, but this plays an important role in providing them help in a dire situation that can otherwise cause serious issues. I’m grateful our state continues to take action to support this pervasive issue.”

SENATOR CABRERA WELCOMES STATE INVESTMENT IN NAUGATUCK STATE FOREST

Posted on September 2, 2026 by SDO Automation

SENATOR CABRERA WELCOMES STATE INVESTMENT IN NAUGATUCK STATE FOREST

NAUGATUCK – State Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden) today welcomed the news that the State Bond Commission is poised to approve funds for the reconstruction and repair of several pedestrian and vehicular bridges in the Naugatuck State Forest when the commission meets Tuesday, September 8, in the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.

The Naugatuck State Forest improvements are part of $10 million in alterations, renovations, and new construction at state parks and recreational facilities across Connecticut that the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection will undertake in the coming year.

“One of the big reasons for Connecticut’s excellent quality of life is all of our public green spaces, including the Naugatuck State Forest. Maintaining the bridges there helps people to continue enjoying the great outdoors here in Connecticut,” Sen. Cabrera said.

The Naugatuck State Forest is almost 5,000 acres of wild, undeveloped woodlands, grasslands, rivers, lakes, ravines, and swamp in the scenic Naugatuck River valley. The forest is crossed by several blue-blazed trails, including the Quinnipiac Trail and Naugatuck Trail (including the Whittemore spur), a mountain biking trail network, including miles of singletrack in the Quillinan Block, the Larkin Bridle Trail, and miles of trails for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, trail running, hiking, and more. Along with the trails, the forest is home to a target shooting range, spectacular waterfalls, and some of the best birdwatching in the state.

The massive forest is spread across Naugatuck, Beacon Falls, Oxford, Bethany, Hamden, Cheshire, Ansonia, and Seymour.

Connecticut’s AI Working Group Holds Inaugural Meeting

Posted on September 2, 2026 by SDO Automation

Connecticut’s AI Working Group Holds Inaugural Meeting

This week, the Connecticut General Assembly’s Artificial Intelligence Working Group held its inaugural meeting bringing together voting and non-voting members to begin conversation about how the state should approach the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence technology.

The group is co-chaired by state Senator James Maroney (D-Milford), and state Representative Roland Lemar (D-New Haven), both of the General Law Committee, which has taken a leading role in shaping Connecticut’s AI policy in recent years.

The meeting opened with a discussion aimed at informing both the direction of the General Law Committee and the broader public conversation among Connecticut residents about the advancements, opportunities, and challenges the state will face as artificial intelligence continues to reshape daily life.

“Our goal is to make Connecticut the leader in responsible AI development,” said Senator Maroney. “This group brings together industry, academic, and government, and the work we do will be critical towards reaching that goal.”

“The first meeting of our AI Working Group is not about having all the answers. It is about creating a space to ask the right questions, share ideas and perspectives, learn from one another, and explore what is possible,” said Rep. Lemar. “Together, we can approach AI with curiosity, purpose, and thoughtful consideration while building a shared understanding and a practical path forward that supports innovation, collaboration, and meaningful impact.”

“I am honored to represent the Connecticut Academy of Science and Engineering (CASE) as a Co-Chair of the AI Working Group,” said Vince Wilczynski, Co-Chair of CASE. “CASE’s mission includes providing expert guidance on science and technology to the citizens and the state, as well as promoting the application of science and technology to human welfare and economic well-being. CASE’s contributions to the AI working group, including the service of two CASE members on the AI Working Group, exemplify the organization’s ability to accomplish its mission. As an engineer, educator, and AI-practitioner in the field of robotics & STEM outreach, I am continuously reminded of AI’s influence on our daily lives. I congratulate the Connecticut General Assembly for its leadership in this rapidly developing field of AI and its impact on education, industry, and society.”

A focus of the inaugural meeting was establishing a framework for evaluating the state’s existing AI-related legislation going forward. Rather than starting from scratch, the working group agreed to review previously passed legislation using a “start, stop, continue” model.

They worked to identify new actions the state should take as AI technology advances, existing approaches that should be discontinued because they are no longer effective, and current efforts that are working well and that should continue.

Members noted that Connecticut has positioned itself as an early leader among states in AI policy, but the state’s own framework will need to continue to evolve over time.

Members heard a series of presentations and held discussions on the current state of AI in Connecticut, setting the stage for the group’s ongoing work.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Michelle Rappaport | Michelle.Rappaport@cga.ct.gov| 860-240-8671

SENATOR ANWAR WELCOMES $3.96 MILLION IN GRANTS FOR EAST HARTFORD MAGNET SCHOOLS

Posted on September 2, 2026 by SDO Automation

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

September 2, 2026

SENATOR ANWAR WELCOMES $3.96 MILLION IN GRANTS FOR EAST HARTFORD MAGNET SCHOOLS

Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) welcomed the State Bond Commission’s announced $3.96 million in grants set for release to support East Hartford magnet schools.

Under the State Bond Commission’s agenda for its September 8 meeting, Riverside Magnet School in East Hartford will receive $3.651 million and the Academy of Computer Science and Engineering Middle School in East Hartford will receive $307,925.

The grants are meant for capital expenses and improvements, including roof repairs, boiler replacements, HVAC upgrades and other capital upgrades.

“These grants will play a significant role in supporting local education, providing significant opportunities to improve necessary resources and ensure classes can go on without issue,” said Sen. Anwar. “I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support.”

SENATOR RAHMAN WELCOMES $266,250 GRANT FOR GLASTONBURY MAGNET SCHOOL

Posted on September 2, 2026 by SDO Automation

SENATOR RAHMAN WELCOMES $266,250 GRANT FOR GLASTONBURY MAGNET SCHOOL

September 2, 2026

Today, State Senator MD Rahman (D-Manchester) welcomed the State Bond Commission’s announced $266,250 grant set for release to support a Glastonbury magnet school.

Under the State Bond Commission’s agenda for its September 8 meeting, Glastonbury East Hartford Magnet in Glastonbury will receive the grant upon its approval.

The grant is meant for capital expenses and improvements, including roof repairs, boiler replacements, HVAC upgrades and other capital upgrades.

“This grant will play a significant role in supporting and enhancing resources for local education,” said Sen. Rahman, “making sure classes can continue without issue and making needed enhancements. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support.”

SENATOR MARX WELCOMES MILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN STATE SUPPORT FOR 20TH SENATE DISTRICT THROUGH STATE BOND COMMISSION

Posted on September 1, 2026 by SDO Automation

SENATOR MARX WELCOMES MILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN STATE SUPPORT FOR 20^TH SENATE DISTRICT THROUGH STATE BOND COMMISSION

September 1, 2026

State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London) welcomed the announcement that millions of dollars in state support and funding will support organizations around the 20^th Senate District pending a final vote by the State Bond Commission.

Among the funding set for release pending approval by the Bond Commission on September 8, projects include:

Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford will receive a significant part of a $20 million total allocation for renovations and improvements at state parks, with work including restoration and preservation for key features throughout the Harkness property, including improvements to the Eolia Mansion, Carriage House, Water Tower and Greenhouse complex
Camp Harkness in Waterford will receive $500,000 for accessibility and capital improvements
The Regional Multicultural Magnet School, or RMMS, in New London will receive $2,492,577 to support capital repairs which can include roof repairs, boiler replacements and HVAC upgrades
Flanders Elementary School in East Lyme will receive $650,000 to support an inclusive playground at Flanders Elementary School, an effort led by the Miracle League of Southeastern Connecticut and executive director David Putnam
The Montville VFW Post 10060 will receive $75,000 for renovations and upgrades

“To see such significant funding and support come from the state for these important purposes is so incredibly meaningful. Important projects supporting improvements and upgrades will help local schools, organizations and parks better support the community, which will benefit countless residents,” said Sen. Marx. “I am grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their continued support of our region.”

HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE THREATENS TO SUBPOENA CT CHILDREN’S OVER TRANSGENDER CARE CAPITULATION TO TRUMP REGIME

Posted on September 1, 2026 by SDO Automation

HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE THREATENS TO SUBPOENA CT CHILDREN’S OVER TRANSGENDER CARE CAPITULATION TO TRUMP REGIME

HARTFORD – The two chairs of the Human Services Committee are threatening to use their subpoena power to compel Connecticut Children’s Medical Center to produce its agreement with the Trump administration to end transgender care at the hospital, despite the hospital’s legal requirement as a Medicaid provider not to discriminate against patients based on their sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) and Representative Jillian Gilchrest (D-West Hartford) on Monday wrote CCMC President and CEO Shannon Sullivan demanding a copy of the hospital’s agreement with the Trump Justice Department, and copies of all correspondence, memoranda, and medical records associated with that agreement, by this Friday, September 4. “Failure to provide a timely response by that date will warrant more robust action by the Human Services Committee, including potential use of our statutory subpoena power,” the chairs wrote.

The demand comes less than a month after CCMC agreed to a settlement with the Trump administration that included numerous onerous terms, including the payment of an undisclosed financial penalty. The demand also comes after Sen. Lesser and Rep. Gilchrest received complaints from CCMC staff and patients.

“CCMC signed a legally binding contract with the State of Connecticut in which they promised not to discriminate against any class of their patients. By submitting to political pressure from the Trump administration, they appear to be breaking our state laws,” Sen. Lesser said. “What’s also concerning is that they have not been forthcoming with the public or their own patients about what they’ve agreed to or why. CCMC is funded by Connecticut taxpayers, and our residents have a right to know what they are doing and what they have agreed to. We will compel them to be transparent if they will not be so voluntarily. Many families see their acquiescence as a betrayal by a trusted medical provider – and CCMC has a lot of explaining to do to win back their trust.”

“Connecticut has positioned itself as a safe state to receive care for transgender youth and adults,” Rep. Gilchrest said. “The actions taken by CCMC have betrayed Connecticut families, parents, doctors, and most importantly, our youth. These coercive tactics by the Trump administration are a shocking abuse of federal power, and we should be doing everything we can to protect essential medical care and push back, not capitulate to this Administration’s ideological warfare. Our request, so we can better understand CCMC’s agreement with the Trump Administration, is minor in light of how major the impact of this decision is.”