Senator Cohen and Branford Delegation Announce $29.4 Million in Additional State Support for Branford School Construction

BRANFORD — State Senator Christine Cohen (D-Guilford), as well as State Representatives Robin Comey (D-Branford) and Moira Rader (D-Guilford) today announced $29.4 million in additional state reimbursement for Branford school construction projects at Mary T. Murphy Elementary School and Mary R. Tisko Elementary School through the recently passed state budget. The legislation increases the state reimbursement rate for both schools, generating $14.7 million in additional state support per school.

The Branford delegation was joined today at Murphy Elementary School by First Selectman Josh Brooks and Superintendent Dr. Christopher Tranberg to mark the occasion.

“This increased reimbursement rate is a major win for Branford taxpayers and, most importantly, for our students,” Senator Cohen said. “Securing an additional $29.4 million in state aid for the renovation of two new elementary schools ensures that our community will not have to shoulder the full financial burden alone while allowing us to deliver modern, state-of-the-art learning environments for our youngest learners. These investments will support student success for generations to come and reflect our commitment to providing every child with the best possible start.”

“Strong public schools are at the heart of a strong community, and these investments represent so much more than new buildings. They reflect our shared commitment to creating learning environments where every child feels supported, inspired, and able to thrive,” Representative Rader said. “By increasing the state reimbursement rate for these projects, we are helping Branford deliver modernized, welcoming schools while also easing the financial burden on local taxpayers. We are grateful for the partnership between local and state leadership that made this possible and proud to support investments that will serve Branford families for generations to come.”

“This additional state funding for renovations at Murphy and Tisko Elementary Schools will help advance Branford’s strategic vision for education, creating the high-quality learning environments our students, teachers, and families deserve,” Representative Comey said. “I’m grateful for the partnership with my colleagues and for Governor Lamont’s commitment to ensuring every child has access to an excellent education.”

Town officials highlighted that the increased reimbursement rate will help Branford continue investing in its schools while reducing financial pressure on taxpayers.

“When I ran for First Selectman, I made a promise to work closely with our state delegation to bring resources home to Branford,” said First Selectman Josh Brooks. “This additional support means our community does not have to choose between investing in our schools and protecting taxpayers. This is what strong local and state partnership looks like.”

Local school leaders further noted that the funding represents an important step forward as Branford continues planning for major upgrades to school facilities that now average more than 75 years in age.

“The Board of Education and Branford Public Schools are excited to begin the generational transformation of the district’s elementary and early learning programs. With critical new funding from the State of Connecticut, we can accelerate the redevelopment and modernization of our schools. Remarkably, for less than the cost of a cup of coffee a day, we will be able to achieve these long-term goals for our community,” said Branford Board of Education Chair Peter Berdon.

Senator Christine Cohen, Representative Robin Comey, and Representative Moira Rader at Murphy Elementary School