Author: Devin James

SEN. LESSER HIGHLIGHTS WETHERSFIELD, MIDDLETOWN AND NEWINGTON BEING NAMED IN ZILLOW’S TOP 10 MOST POPULAR MARKETS

Posted on by Devin James
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Garnet McLaughlin | Garnet.McLaughlin@cga.ct.gov

SEN. LESSER HIGHLIGHTS WETHERSFIELD, MIDDLETOWN AND NEWINGTON BEING NAMED IN ZILLOW’S TOP 10 MOST POPULAR MARKETS

Today, State Sen. Matt Lesser welcomed news that Wethersfield, Middletown and Newington made Zillow’s list of Top 10 Most Popular Markets of 2023. These areas saw the largest volume of page visits, and New England towns were extremely popular for Zillow surfers: seven of the 10 most popular markets of 2023 were in either Connecticut or New Hampshire. The Hartford regional housing market remains very strong nationally, and housing inventory remains low.

“The 9th Senate District is a fantastic place to live, work and raise a family,” said State Sen. Matt Lesser. “More and more people are looking towards our communities when considering their next move, and it is clear why – we have great schools, thriving downtowns, engaged communities, historic charm and so much more.”

The top 10 most popular markets on Zillow of 2023:

1. West Chester, Pennsylvania
2. Nashua, New Hampshire
3. Manchester, New Hampshire
4. Wethersfield, Connecticut
5. West Hartford, Connecticut
6. Stow, Ohio
7. Middletown, Connecticut
8. Twinsburg, Ohio
9. Newington, Connecticut
10. Concord, New Hampshire

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Looney, Winfield Welcome State Bonding for New Haven

Posted on by Devin James

HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven) and Senator Gary Winfield (D-New Haven) welcomed over $10 million in state bonding to benefit New Haven. The funding will support improvements at Science Park and the Jenkin Waggoner Laboratory, infrastructure and housing development in Mill River, renovation at Edmund Cofield Preparatory Academy for Young Men, aid for the Glendower Union Square transformation, and downtown street improvements. The specific projects include:

  • $700,000 grant to Science Park Development Corporation for the identification, investigation, containment, removal or mitigation at the New Haven Science Park Tract A parcel in New Haven
  • $1 million grant for improvements to two greenhouses at the Jenkin Waggoner Laboratory in New Haven. Project consists of renovating the existing structures, address inefficient heating units, and for other repairs as needed.
  • $5 million grant to the City of New Haven to support property acquisition, public infrastructure, and housing development as part of the Mill River Municipal Development Plan.
  • $2 million grant to the Edmund Cofield Preparatory Academy for Young Men in New Haven for acquisition and renovation costs.
  • $1.4 million grant to the Housing Authority of New Haven for the Glendower Union Square Transformation Plan.
  • $500,000 grant to the City of New Haven to convert Chapel Street from York Street to Dwight Street into a 2-way street.

“We are deeply gratified to welcome this vital state bonding to New Haven, funding that serves as a testament to our commitment to economic development and social infrastructure,” said Senator Looney. “Governor Lamont’s support for these crucial initiatives underscores our collective dedication to enhancing education, housing, and community spaces to improve the quality of life for all New Haven residents.”

“The allocation of over $10 million in state bonding marks a significant investment in New Haven’s future,” said Senator Winfield. “This funding is instrumental in fortifying key areas like education, housing, and infrastructure, exemplifying our shared vision for a thriving community. Thanks to Governor Lamont for championing these essential projects that will positively impact the lives of many in our city.”

“These funds will go a long way in our ongoing efforts to strengthen New Haven and improve the quality of life for those who live in the city, including through increasing the availability of housing and supporting initiatives that boost economic development and job growth,” Governor Ned Lamont said.

“I would like to thank the New Haven delegation for its commitment to the projects approved by Governor Lamont and the Bon Commission today,” Rep. Robyn Porter said. “From the New Haven Correctional Center to the Housing Authority of New Haven to the Edmund Cofield Preparatory Academy for Young Men, the funding for these projects and several others will be of great benefit to our greater community.”

The Bond Agenda was approved on Friday, December 15.

Contact: Kevin Coughlin | 203-710-0193 | kevin.coughlin@cga.ct.gov
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SENS. FLEXER AND GORDON WELCOME STATE BONDING FOR THOMPSON PLAYGROUND

Posted on by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, December 15, 2023

SENS. FLEXER AND GORDON WELCOME STATE BONDING FOR THOMPSON PLAYGROUND

THOMPSON – State Senators Mae Flexer and Jeff Gordon announced that the State Bond Commission today approved $80,000 to create an ADA-compliant playground at the Mary R. Fisher Elementary School in Thompson, which is home to about 400 students.

Mary R. Fisher Elementary School PTO Treasurer Jessica Bolte, who is also a member of the Thompson Board of Education, said the playground has been closed to students for over a year, leaving them to play on blacktop and a soccer field with materials handed out on “recess carts” by teachers.

“This new playground will be fantastic and will allow our students to go out and play, and maybe make many of them want to go to school even more,” Bolte said. “Our kids need the ability to play. It’s good for motor skills and social development.”

“Mary Fisher students should never have gone this long without a functional playground in the first place. It’s hard to understand why local resources weren’t allocated. But after seeing the fenced-off former playground for myself, I knew something had to change,” Sen. Flexer said. “Thank goodness the Mary Fisher PTO and Thompson parents did a fantastic job of raising tens of thousands of dollars over the past year for this project, and now state money is putting it over the top. Thanks to these amazing volunteers, the community, and the state, these students will finally get the recess time that all kids want and deserve.”

“This funding will make the playground usable, safer, and more accessible,” said Sen. Gordon, who represents part of Thompson. “I have seen the playground firsthand. It definitely needs repair and upgrades. This improvement project has bipartisan support and will increase recreational opportunities for Thompson children and their families. I am very happy to have helped move things forward. It needed to be done for the kids! I thank Governor Lamont for recognizing the merits of this project. Thank you also to the Thompson PTO for raising money for this project. I will continue to work collaboratively with my legislative colleagues, state and local officials, and others in town, to help the people of Thompson.”

“On behalf of the students of the Mary R. Fisher Elementary School, I would like to thank Senators Flexer and Gordon for advocating for this much-needed funding to build a new outdoor play area that promotes exercise and healthy activities for young children,” said Thompson Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Melinda A. Smith. “I also have much appreciation for the PTO parents who have gone above and beyond to creatively raise money for this project. It’s inspiring to see what can be done for the community when you have state leaders and parents working together.”

Bolte said over the past year the Mary R. Fisher Elementary School PTO has raised $60,000 for the new playground. She said the new playground – which is currently accessed by a hill – will be re-graded to allow for easier access by children with mobility issues. The new playground will also feature various types of swings, slides, climbing cubes, and smaller components. She excepts it will be installed next summer.

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SEN. LESSER, NEWINGTON DELEGATION WELCOME $120K FOR LUCY ROBBINS WELLES LIBRARY

Posted on by Devin James
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Garnet McLaughlin | Garnet.McLaughlin@cga.ct.gov

SEN. LESSER, NEWINGTON DELEGATION WELCOME $120K FOR LUCY ROBBINS WELLES LIBRARY

HARTFORD, CT – State Sen. Matt Lesser, State Representative Gary Turco, State Representative Kate Farrar and town leaders welcome $120,000 in state funding for renovations to Newington’s Lucy Robbins Welles Library, approved today by the State Bond Commission.

The library, originally built in 1939, will now move forward with a number of improvements to modernize the facilities, while preserving the charm of the historic building. The project involves structural changes, wiring upgrades, and furniture modifications to repurpose the space and better serve the needs of Newington residents. Specifically these funds will allow the library to:

  • Build a Multi-Language Learner Informational area, which aims to welcome and support new residents, particularly those who have recently moved to the United States and settled in Newington.
  • Improve the Quiet Study Area within the original building. The existing furniture is over 30 years old and needs replacing. The project also involves necessary structural changes and wiring upgrades to create a technology-friendly environment.
  • Upgrade the Staff Workspace, which currently does not meet the requirements of modern librarians. Renovating the Staff Workspace will provide ergonomically correct workspaces and better meet the needs of the library staff.

“I am thrilled to announce this investment in Newington’s Lucy Robbins Welles library, having worked closely with Library Director Lisa Masten to win the Governor’s support,” said State Sen. Matt Lesser. “Libraries provide an invaluable asset for their communities and I look forward to seeing the Lucy Robbins Welles Library propelled into today’s age while maintaining its historic charm. I want to thank Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for continuing to invest in municipalities big and small, all across the state.”

“The Lucy Robbins Welles Library is grateful to Senator Matt Lesser for advocating for the library to receive these funds for structural improvements within the library and for Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving them,” said Library Director Lisa Masten. “These funds will be used to repurpose and reconfigure several areas in the library to make better use of space and to address several areas of concern within the building, all with the intent of better serving our patrons. While the library works towards the possibility of major renovation in the coming years, this money will address immediate needs with many of the changes including furniture and equipment, able to be moved and used in any future renovation plans.”

“This bond funding aims to address critically needed enhancements on the first floor of the original building and will repurpose and improve the space to better serve library patrons and staff,” said State Rep. Gary Turco (D-Newington, New Britain). “These updates are also future-proof, even in the event of major future renovations, while also preserving the character and charm of the library that I personally love. I am glad that Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission support this funding, which will help the community enjoy the library for generations to come.”

“The state grant funding for the Lucy Robbins Welles Library will make vital improvements to the building’s aging structure. We all benefit from vibrant libraries as a source of knowledge, inspiration, and community engagement,” said Representative Kate Farrar (West Hartford, Newington). “I want to express my sincere gratitude to the State Bond Commission and Governor Lamont for investing in the Newington’s library to continue its role as a vital community resource.”

“The Town of Newington is so happy to receive this grant-in-aid for the Lucy Robbins Wells Library! We are tremendously grateful for Senator Lesser’s leadership in helping to secure this grant and we are so thankful to the state bond commission for approving the request,” said Newington Mayor Jon Trister. “The Lucy Robins Wells Library is a centerpiece of our community and this grant will help the library to complete much needed structural upgrades! Thank you all!”

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SEN. LESSER WELCOMES $5.3 MILLION IN STATE FUNDING FOR NEWINGTON, MIDDLETOWN

Posted on by Devin James
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Garnet McLaughlin | Garnet.McLaughlin@cga.ct.gov

SEN. LESSER WELCOMES $5.3 MILLION IN STATE FUNDING FOR NEWINGTON, MIDDLETOWN

HARTFORD, CT – State Senator Matt Lesser welcomes $5.3 million in state funding for a number of projects in Newington and Middletown, approved today by the State Bond Commission.

  • $120,000 for upgrades and renovations to the Lucy Robbins Wells Library in Newington
  • $3 million for land repairs and expansion of the Veterans Affairs Cemetery and Memorial Services Program in Middletown
  • $190,000 for the removal and replacement of an oil tank at Solnit Hospital in Middletown
  • $2 million for dam repairs at Crystal Lake in Middletown

“From Newington’s library to needed dam repairs to a historic expansion of the State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown, I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for investing in a wide breadth of improvements all across our district.” said State Sen. Matt Lesser.

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Senator Hochadel Welcomes State Bonding for Projects in Cheshire and Middletown

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Hochadel Welcomes State Bonding for Projects in Cheshire and Middletown

Today, state Senator Jan Hochadel (D-Meriden) is welcoming over 5.5 million dollars in funding approved by the State Bond Commission for projects in Middletown and Cheshire. Funds will be allocated to the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Solnit South hospital facility, and two state dams in Middletown. Funds will also be provided to the Yankee Expressway Highlands in Cheshire.

“This funding will upgrade existing infrastructure, enhance open space and provide additional land and structure improvements for veterans in Middletown, said Sen. Hochadel. “Thank you to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving these grants and investing in our communities.”

Under the bonding agenda, $3 million will be allocated to finance land acquisition for the Department of Veterans Affairs Cemetery and Memorial Services Program in Middletown. The Middletown State Veterans Cemetery provides burial plots for Connecticut Veterans and eligible dependents. The Department plans to acquire additional suitable land for additional burial sites and structures and to repair and improve its’ current sites.

Two state dams in Middletown are also being given funding. Crystal Lake in Middletown will be receiving $2 million and Dooley Pond in Middletown will be receiving $350,000.

Also in Middletown, $190,000 is approved to finance the removal of an underground oil tank and replacement with an above ground tank at Solnit South hospital facility in Middletown.

In Cheshire, funding of $50,000 is being allocated to improve the open space at the Yankee Expressway Highlands.

SENATOR MARX WELCOMES $650,000 IN STATE FUNDING TO SUPPORT EAST LYME, WATERFORD

Posted on by Devin James
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                               CONTACT
December 15, 2023                                                   Joe O’Leary 508-479-4969

SENATOR MARX WELCOMES $650,000 IN STATE FUNDING TO SUPPORT EAST LYME, WATERFORD
Funds will support Camp Harkness in Waterford, dam repairs in East Lyme

Today, State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London) welcomed the State Bond Commission’s approval of $650,000 to be released to support projects at Camp Harkness in Waterford and dam repairs and projects in East Lyme.

“It’s encouraging to know our communities are receiving this important support for the state for important projects,” said Sen. Marx. “Camp Harkness is a vital resource for individuals with disabilities around our state and these repairs will make sure those visiting can enjoy it safely and with a new playscape ready to weather shoreline elements. Additionally, repairs to our dams will keep watersheds and local water resources safer and more accessible. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support.”

The State Bond Commission today approved the release of $500,000 to finance renovations and improvements at Camp Harkness in Waterford to support the installation of a new occupational playscape, safety improvements and code compliance. The playscape will be constructed of materials designed to resist the corrosion that occurs over time at an oceanfront park. Additional sitework will include walls, fencing, planting and walkways.

Camp Harkness is a state park dedicated for exclusive use by citizens with disabilities, accompanied by families and friends. It is state-owned and managed by the Department of Developmental Services.

Another $150,000 will be allocated to support dam repairs at Power Lake and Pattagansett Lake in East Lyme, with each project costing $75,000.

SENATOR MAHER WELCOMES $9.475 MILLION IN STATE FUNDING TO SUPPORT STAMFORD HOUSING REHAB AND ROAD SAFETY, NEW CANAAN PLAYHOUSE THEATER, RIDGEFIELD ART MUSEUM

Posted on by Devin James
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                          CONTACT
December 15, 2023                                                   Joe O’Leary 508-479-4969

SENATOR MAHER WELCOMES $9.475 MILLION IN STATE FUNDING TO SUPPORT STAMFORD HOUSING REHAB AND ROAD SAFETY, NEW CANAAN PLAYHOUSE THEATER, RIDGEFIELD ART MUSEUM

Today, State Senator Ceci Maher (D-Wilton) welcomed the State Bond Commission’s approval of $9.475 million in grant funding for the 26th Senate District that will support local organizations and communities including rehabilitation of Stamford’s Parkside Gables community, the New Canaan Playhouse Theater, Stamford intersections and sidewalks and the Aldrich Art Museum in Ridgefield.

“This local support will play such a valuable role in aiding housing, transportation and the arts throughout the 26th Senate District,” said Sen. Maher. “From local affordable housing receiving valuable upgrades to local arts organizations like the Playhouse and the Aldrich experiencing new upgrades, to say nothing of improved safety on roads throughout Stamford, this funding will be transformative over time. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for investing in our communities.”

The State Bond Commission today approved the release of $4 million to provide a loan assisting with rehabilitation of Parkside Gables in Stamford, a 69-unit property that serves families earning up to 60% of the area’s median income. The project will include new windows and doors to support energy efficiency, upgrades to building systems, interior improvements like painting and new flooring and exterior improvements such as roof replacement and sidewalk upgrades.

An additional $2 million will be released for renovations and improvements to the Playhouse theater in New Canaan. The theater, which was built 100 years ago, needs up to $7.9 million in renovations, with needed work including a new HVAC system, structural work to the property and a third floor to house the HVAC system.

In Stamford, another $2 million in grant funds will lead to the construction of a raised intersection at the intersection of Washington Boulevard and Richmond Hill Avenue with further improvements such as pedestrian refuge islands and pedestrian ramps, while a separate grant of $1 million will support construction of new sidewalks along Long Ridge Road, new crosswalks, new bus shelters and new pedestrian ramps.

Ridgefield’s Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum will receive $475,000 in grant funding to redevelop its sculpture garden. The museum seeks to make its campus united by matching its outdoor sculpture garden with the modern amenities offered by its museum building, which was improved in 2004.
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STATE GIVES FINAL APPROVAL TO RELEASE FUNDS TO IMPROVE SECURITY AT HOUSES OF WORSHIP

Posted on by Devin James
Senator Derek Slap
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                               CONTACT
December 15, 2023                                                             Garnet McLaughlin
860-304-2319

 

STATE GIVES FINAL APPROVAL TO RELEASE FUNDS TO IMPROVE SECURITY AT HOUSES OF WORSHIP

Senators Slap and Anwar, introducers of the program, say the need for funds is tragic, but urgent.

HARTFORD, CT – Today, the State Bond Commission gave final approval to release another $5 million in funds to improve security at houses of worship and eligible nonprofit organizations that are at heightened risk of being the target of a hate crime or violent act. State Senators Derek Slap (D-West Hartford) and Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) welcome this release of funding, as they led the initiative to create this grant program in 2019, and have been strong advocates for increasing protections in recent years amid a rise of hate crimes and violent incidents in houses of worship. To read more on the grant program and the need for this funding, please click here.

“At this time of increased hate speech, antisemitism and Islamophobia it’s critical that we help protect our houses of worship,” said State Sen. Derek Slap. “No one should be afraid to attend services and this funding will go directly to harden infrastructure and improve security. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for putting this important funding on the agenda.”

“It is relieving, especially in times of heightened tensions and increased reports of antisemitism and Islamophobia, that this funding will continue to protect and support houses of worship across our state,” said State Sen. Saud Anwar. “Everyone should be free to practice their religion without interference or threat and this funding will make our faith communities safer. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for their support.”

“No one should be put in danger while attending a place of worship or non-profit,” said State Rep. Jillian Gilchrest. “It is beyond troubling that hateful incidents and threats are on the rise. I am grateful that additional security funding is being made available to help these organizations.”

“The Jewish community is thankful we live in a state that understands its role in public safety,” said Michael Bloom, Executive Director of the Jewish Federation Association of Connecticut. “Thank you Senator Slap, Senator Anwar and Governor Lamont for releasing these dollars which are crucial because of the rise of Jew hatred we are seeing.”

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN WELCOMES $1.445 MILLION IN STATE FUNDING TO SUPPORT HADDAM LIBRARY, WESTBROOK NONPROFIT, LOCAL DAMS

Posted on by Devin James
State Senator Norm Needleman
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe O’Leary | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov | 508-479-4969
December 15, 2023

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN WELCOMES $1.445 MILLION IN STATE FUNDING TO SUPPORT HADDAM LIBRARY, WESTBROOK NONPROFIT, LOCAL DAMS
Funds will support Brainerd Memorial Library, Vista Life Innovations

Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) welcomed the State Bond Commission’s approval of $1.445 million in state funding to be released, with funding supporting projects including repairs and restoration of the Brainerd Memorial Library, construction of a new building for Westbrook nonprofit Vista Life Innovations and repairs to dams in East Haddam and Portland.

“This local support from state leaders will play a vital role in supporting our communities,” said Sen. Needleman. “Support for valuable resources including Vista Life, which aids families from around the state, and Brainerd Library, which benefits the Haddam community, will provide great new opportunities for residents for years to come. Additionally, repairs to local dams will keep our local watersheds and bodies of water operating for decades to come. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support.”

The State Bond Commission today approved the release of $500,000 for a grant supporting the construction of a new building for Vista Life Innovations in Westbrook. Vista Life Innovations is a nonprofit training program serving individuals with disabilities such as developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders and brain injuries. The program provides hands-on training in community settings to support individuals with disabilities, allowing them to become fully engaged members of the community.

An additional $380,000 in grant funds will go to the Brainerd Memorial Library in Haddam for repairs and restoration of the library, a redesign of the Children’s Room, new glass enclosed meeting rooms and an updated circulation desk. The project, which will cost a total of $1.35 million, has $970,000 in additional funding from other sources.

Another $565,000 in funds will support dam repairs throughout the region, including $450,000 for Pickerel Lake in East Haddam, $75,000 for Gillette Castle Lower Pond in East Haddam and $40,000 for Great Hill Pond in Portland.

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