Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Recognized by South Asian Bar Association

Posted on September 9, 2026 by SDO Automation

Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Recognized by South Asian Bar Association

Tonight, State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox will be recognized by the South Asian Bar Association of Connecticut (SABAC) as the Distinguished Legal Professional of the Year and the Annual Awards Gala Keynote Speaker.

Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox is a state senator and a Professor of Legal Studies at Quinnipiac University. She is the Executive Director of the Oxford Consortium for Human Rights and a Fulbright-Nehru Scholar. She is also the first woman of Indian origin to serve as a Senator in the State of Connecticut.

“The South Asian Bar Association has been a fantastic resource for me as a law professional and has helped encourage and celebrate diversity in the legal world,” said Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox. “I am honored to receive this award and serve as the keynote speaker for the annual awards gala, where I hope I can share my story and encourage others in the South Asian community to explore public office and ensure our voices are represented where laws are being made.”

SABAC was formed in 2004 to serve as a resource to South Asian lawyers and law students for growth, professional development, networking, and community outreach. SABAC is a member organization of the South Asian Bar Association of North America.

Middletown Delegation Welcomes $900k for Park Facilities

Posted on September 8, 2026 by SDO Automation

Middletown Delegation Welcomes $900k for Park Facilities

MIDDLETOWN – Today, State Senators Matt Lesser and Jan Hochadel, and State Representatives Kai Belton and Brandon Chafee welcome $900,000 from the State Bond Commission for prefabricated restroom facilities at Smith Park, Butternut Park and Harbor Park in Middletown.

The project includes the installation of precast concrete restroom facilities, made for high-use public environments at three city parks. The facilities will be ADA-compliant and accessible, and will feature heating, LED lighting, sensor operated plumbing fixtures and call-for-aid stations.

“I am grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their continued support of recreation in Middletown,” said Sen. Lesser. “From the playgrounds at Smith Park and Butternut Park to Harbor Park, these are some of Middletown’s best public spaces. This will improve quality of life for all of our residents.”

“This funding addresses an overdue need for residents and visitors in our parks in Middletown,” said Sen. Hochadel. “It makes our parks more accessible and welcoming for families, seniors, and anyone enjoying our green spaces. Public parks are one of the best investments a community can make and something as simple as reliable restroom access can make a real difference in heading to our parks together.”

“These bathrooms are low-maintenance, ADA-compliant, and vandal-proof, ensuring long-term durability,” Rep. Belton said. “Our residents deserve top-notch facilities at our public parks. These bathrooms will be great additions. Many thanks to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving these funds.”

I am grateful that the state making this investment in Middletown’s parks,” said Rep. Chafee. “Permanent bathroom facilities are long overdue and will make these parks much more family friendly. I’d like to thank Governor Lamont for making this investment, and the Middletown delegation for working to secure these funds.”

“The installation of precast restroom facilities represents a practical, efficient, and durable solution for expanding and improving public amenities throughout our city parks,” said Middletown Mayor Gene Nocera. “This innovative approach minimizes construction impacts while providing high-quality, long-lasting infrastructure that meets the needs of our residents and visitors. We are especially grateful to our state Senator Matt Lesser as well as Representatives Brandon Chafee, and Kai Belton for their leadership and assistance in securing funding for these precast restroom facilities for the City of Middletown. This grant represents a significant investment in Middletown, providing both substantial economic and practical benefits. It allows us to enhance our parks and recreational facilities while being responsible stewards of taxpayer resources. Most importantly, these improvements will provide our residents and visitors with better, more accessible public amenities for years to come. We sincerely thank our legislators for their partnership and commitment to Middletown and our community.”

Sen. Cohen Welcomes $52.9M for Connecticut Farmers

Posted on September 8, 2026September 9, 2026 by SDO Automation

Sen. Cohen Welcomes $52.9M for Connecticut Farmers

Today, State Senator Christine Cohen welcomed news that Connecticut will receive a $52.9 million Farm Recovery and Support Block Grant for farmers who experienced weather related losses in 2023 and 2024.

Constituent Willie Dellacamera of Cecarelli’s Harrison Hill Farm in Northford has been instrumental in getting these dollars to Connecticut farmers. He made headlines in 2024 when a hail storm decimated his crops and ability to make a living. Demanding federal assistance for local farmers across the country, Willie drove his tractor to Washington D.C. to advocate for a $220 million federal block grant to support small and medium farms like his, as well as $21 billion to cover agriculture losses caused by natural disasters.

The block grant funding was approved in December of 2024 and included $23 million for Connecticut farms; however funding was not released until July 2026.

In 2025 while the federal support remained in limbo, Senator Cohen, Willie Dellacamera, Keith Bishop of Bishop’s Orchards and many others worked together to pass comprehensive legislation to support Connecticut farms, including a state-backed safety net for farmers facing crop losses due to extreme weather.

“Farmers are critical to our food supply and they are faced with all sorts of obstacles – extreme weather events, tariffs, cold snaps, insects and more,” said Sen. Cohen. “When they are facing tough times, they need to know that we have their backs. I am so grateful to Willie for his advocacy and resilience, ensuring these dollars will finally reach the farmers who need it. I hope that the federal government will answer the call more promptly the next time our farmers need a hand.”

If you are a Connecticut farmer who experienced weather-related losses please visit https://portal.ct.gov/FRS to apply for assistance.

Senator Gadkar-Wilcox Welcomes $478 Thousand in Funding for Trumbull School

Posted on September 8, 2026 by SDO Automation

Senator Gadkar-Wilcox Welcomes $478 Thousand in Funding for Trumbull School

Today, state Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox (D-Bridgeport) welcomed the State Bond Commission’s approval of $478,183 in grants set for Regional Center for the Arts in Trumbull.

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

“Trumbull’s Regional Center for the Arts is a vital resource for students and the broader community, and this funding ensures the building itself can keep up with the programs inside it,” said Senator Gadkar-Wilcox. “These repairs are the kind of behind-the-scenes investments that don’t always get attention, but they’re essential to keeping this facility safe, functional and welcoming for years to come.”

Senator Maroney Welcomes $56,000 Grant to Upgrade Milford’s Shoreline Early Warning System

Posted on September 8, 2026 by SDO Automation

Senator Maroney Welcomes $56,000 Grant to Upgrade Milford’s Shoreline Early Warning System

Today, state Senator James Maroney (D-Milford) is welcoming a grant, approved by the state bond commission to replace the Shoreline Early Warning System in Milford. The system notifies residents of impending storms, floods, and other emergencies.

The $56,000 grant is essential to ensure Milford maintains a reliable, modern emergency warning system for its vulnerable shoreline communities. Upgrading this infrastructure represents a critical investment in public safety, resilience, and disaster readiness.

“This funding will strengthen life safety and evacuation effectiveness, enhance coastal resiliency and emergency preparedness, and ensure a rapid and reliable dissemination of critical information,” said Sen. Maroney. “Our early warning system has served residents well for decades, but the equipment is aging and that’s not something we can afford when it comes to protecting lives during a hurricane or major coastal storm. With 17 miles of coastline, Milford is one of the most vulnerable communities in Connecticut and this funding ensures our residents will continue to have the modern, dependable warning system they deserve.”

The current siren system is aging, outdated and unreliable. The equipment has been in service for decades and is beyond its intended lifecycle. If it is not updated and fixed, it could present operational risks particularly during major storms.

Milford currently operates a shoreline early warning siren network that provides immediate, audible emergency notifications to residents and visitors during coastal storms, hurricanes, flooding, and evacuation events. The system consists of six pole-mounted dual-horn sirens capable of broadcasting siren tones followed by recorded or live voice instructions.

The sirens are located at Sand Street, Naugatuck Avenue & East Broadway, James Street, Bay Shore Drive, Morehouse Avenue, and Hillside Avenue & Edgefield Avenue.

Milford includes approximately 17 miles of coastline along Long Island Sound and the Housatonic River, placing it among Connecticut’s most storm and flood-vulnerable shoreline communities.

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

Senator Gaston Welcomes $1.57 Million in Grants for Bridgeport Magnet School

Posted on September 8, 2026 by SDO Automation

Senator Gaston Welcomes $1.57 Million in Grants for Bridgeport Magnet School

Today, state Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport), welcomed the State Bond Commission’s approval of $1,578,995 in grants set for Six to Six Magnet School in Bridgeport.

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

“Six to Six Magnet School has served Bridgeport’s children and families for years, and it’s long past time this facility got the investment they deserve,” said Sen. Gaston. “This funding will help with upgrades that our students and teachers need to have a safe, functional place to learn. I’m grateful to the State Bond Commission for recognizing Bridgeport’s needs.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Garnet McLaughlin | garnet.mclaughlin@cga.ct.gov | 860-304-2319

Senator Gaston Welcomes Grant to Redevelop Former Stratford Engine Plant into Flood-Resilient Housing

Posted on September 8, 2026 by SDO Automation

Senator Gaston Welcomes Grant to Redevelop Former Stratford Engine Plant into Flood-Resilient Housing

Today, state Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport) is welcoming a grant-in-aid, approved by the state bond commission, to support the redevelopment of the former Stratford Engine Plant property in Stratford. The funding will help transform the long-vacant industrial site into a mixed-use residential development built to modern flood resiliency standards.

The $2 million grant is essential to advancing the reuse of a site that has sat dormant for years, unlocking new housing opportunities while ensuring the property meets flood resiliency guidelines set by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). Redeveloping this property represents a critical investment in Stratford’s economic future, housing capacity, and long-term resilience against flooding and climate impacts.

“This funding will help turn an underutilized industrial site into a vibrant, mixed-use community while making sure it’s built to withstand the flooding risks our shoreline towns increasingly face,” said Sen. Gaston. “The former Stratford Engine Plant has enormous potential, and this investment ensures that as we redevelop it, we’re doing so responsibly. This is exactly the kind of forward-thinking investment that benefits both Stratford residents and the broader region.”

The project reflects a broader effort to convert underused industrial land into productive, resilient community space, supporting housing growth while addressing the environmental and flood-related challenges facing Connecticut’s coastal and riverfront communities.

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