Author: sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

STATEMENT OF DEMOCRATIC STATE SENATORS NORM NEEDLEMAN AND CHRISTINE COHEN ON THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S CANCELLATION TODAY OF MULTIPLE EAST COAST OFFSHORE WIND PROJECTS, INCLUDING REVOLUTION WIND

Posted on by sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

STATEMENT OF DEMOCRATIC STATE SENATORS NORM NEEDLEMAN AND CHRISTINE COHEN ON THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S CANCELLATION TODAY OF MULTIPLE EAST COAST OFFSHORE WIND PROJECTS, INCLUDING REVOLUTION WIND

State Senator Christine Cohen (D-Guilford), who is Senate Chair of the Transportation Committee, and Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex), who is Senate Chair of the Energy & Technology Committee, issued the following statement today in response to the Trump Administration’s cancellation today of several East Coast offshore wind farm projects, including Revolution Wind.

The Revolution Wind project by Orsted is located off the Connecticut/Rhode Island coast. Over $100 million has been invested, the project is 80% complete, it is supporting more than 2,000 direct jobs in construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding, and is expected when complete to provide 304 MW of power to Connecticut and 400 MW to Rhode Island.

“This decision by Donald Trump is anti-business, anti-environment, and anti-employee. Imagine the private sector pulling a contract when the work is 80% complete and $100 million has been invested. Imagine being told a few days before Christmas, don’t bother showing up for work tomorrow. Imagine the environmental impact of the loss of electrical capacity not being generated by nuclear power plants or natural gas. Imagine the impact on the State Pier, our Port Authority, shoreline transportation and Connecticut’s shipping-based economy. It is our sincere hope that this move by the  Republican Trump Administration will be defeated in court just like his last attack on wind power was. We also look forward to our Republican colleagues publicly condemning this action.”

STATEMENT OF DEMOCRATIC STATE SENATORS NORM NEEDLEMAN AND CHRISTINE COHEN ON THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S CANCELLATION TODAY OF MULTIPLE EAST COAST OFFSHORE WIND PROJECTS, INCLUDING REVOLUTION WIND

Posted on by sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

STATEMENT OF DEMOCRATIC STATE SENATORS NORM NEEDLEMAN AND CHRISTINE COHEN ON THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S CANCELLATION TODAY OF MULTIPLE EAST COAST OFFSHORE WIND PROJECTS, INCLUDING REVOLUTION WIND

State Senator Christine Cohen (D-Guilford), who is Senate Chair of the Transportation Committee, and Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex), who is Senate Chair of the Energy & Technology Committee, issued the following statement today in response to the Trump Administration’s cancellation today of several East Coast offshore wind farm projects, including Revolution Wind.

The Revolution Wind project by Orsted is located off the Connecticut/Rhode Island coast. Over $100 million has been invested, the project is 80% complete, it is supporting more than 2,000 direct jobs in construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding, and is expected when complete to provide 304 MW of power to Connecticut and 400 MW to Rhode Island.

“This decision by Donald Trump is anti-business, anti-environment, and anti-employee. Imagine the private sector pulling a contract when the work is 80% complete and $100 million has been invested. Imagine being told a few days before Christmas, don’t bother showing up for work tomorrow. Imagine the environmental impact of the loss of electrical capacity not being generated by nuclear power plants or natural gas. Imagine the impact on the State Pier, our Port Authority, shoreline transportation and Connecticut’s shipping-based economy. It is our sincere hope that this move by the  Republican Trump Administration will be defeated in court just like his last attack on wind power was. We also look forward to our Republican colleagues publicly condemning this action.”

Senator Honig Welcomes $1.2 Million in State Grants to Clean Up Torrington Brownfield Sites

Posted on by sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

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Senator Honig Welcomes $1.2 Million in State Grants to Clean Up Torrington Brownfield Sites

Senator Paul Honig, D-Harwinton, today welcomed the announcement that Torrington will receive $1.2 million in state grants to remediate blighted properties and support future redevelopment in the city.

The grants, announced by Governor Ned Lamont through the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s Brownfield Remediation and Development Program, will fund three projects in Torrington:

  • $800,000 for cleanup of the 7.54-acre former Torrington Company/Excelsior Needle Company site at 59 Field Street, including abatement and demolition of a 24,000-square-foot building and creation of additional parking to support adjacent commercial space.
  • $200,000 to complete environmental assessment activities at the former Torrington Standard Plant site on 4.61 acres at and around 52 Norwood Street to identify contaminants and inform future redevelopment.
  • $200,000 for comprehensive brownfield planning for downtown Torrington, focused on the north end of Main Street, to develop a long-term remediation and redevelopment strategy.

“These grants give Torrington the tools to reclaim land that has sat vacant for far too long,” Senator Honig said. “Cleaning up contaminated or blighted sites is essential to creating space for new businesses, housing, and opportunities. These investments will help reimagine what’s possible and position Torrington for the kind of growth the community deserves.”

Statewide, the $28.2 million in grants will support remediation and assessment of 16 blighted properties across 13 municipalities, helping to bring more than 200 acres of land back into productive use.

“By cleaning up blighted and vacant properties, we can put this land back into productive use in smart ways that support the growth of businesses and new jobs, and also to build new housing, which is significantly needed,” Governor Lamont said. “Through the remediation of these properties, we are creating new opportunities to revitalize neighborhoods and transform otherwise unusable lots into new spaces where businesses can thrive and residents can live.”

Senator Honig Applauds State Investment in Torrington Food Production and Children’s Museum

Posted on by sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

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Senator Honig Applauds State Investment in Torrington Food Production and Children’s Museum

Senator Paul Honig, D-Harwinton, today welcomed the State Bond Commission’s approval of $1.25 million in grants for two Torrington projects that will expand local food production and support planning for the KidsPlay Children’s Museum.

The Bond Commission on Thursday approved a $1 million grant recommended by the Community Investment Fund to expand the CT Food for Thought’s hydroponic lettuce operation in Torrington’s Technology Park. The project is expected to add new warehouse and greenhouse space to the existing facility, which currently produces lettuce for regional grocery stores and schools.

The Commission also approved a $250,000 planning grant for Torrington’s KidsPlay Children’s Museum to develop a comprehensive master plan for future growth.

“When I toured the CT Food for Thought greenhouses in August, I was struck by the scale of what they’ve built and the positive impact it’s having on our region,” Senator Honig said. “Ensuring access to healthy, locally grown food is more important than ever, and this operation does that while funding critical services in Torrington and the surrounding towns. This investment will expand local food production, and strengthen the programs our communities depend on. It’s also exciting to see funding for KidsPlay’s planning efforts so this vital resource can continue serving our children. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support of the Torrington community.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

Senate Leaders Condemn Embrace of Hate Symbols by Trump’s DHS

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Senate Leaders Condemn Embrace of Hate Symbols by Trump’s DHS

HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), Senator Martha Marx (D-New London), and Senator Paul Honig (D-Harwinton) strongly denounced the Department of Homeland Security’s recent U.S. Coast Guard policy revision that removed the explicit designation of swastikas and nooses as “hate symbols” and instead labeled these symbols as “potentially divisive.”

“Swastikas and nooses are unmistakable representations of hatred, terror, and historical atrocity,” said Senate President Looney. “The decision to soften their classification is a political choice and part of a disturbing pattern of minimizing the significance of the symbols of hatred to appease extremists by President Trump. Coast Guard members and the public deserve leadership that stands clearly and unequivocally against hate, especially as antisemitism and racially motivated violence rise across the country.”

“An administration that thinks a swastika and a noose are only potentially divisive shows the rot of hatred that infests the highest levels of the Trump administration,” said Senate Majority Leader Duff. “Connecticut rejects hate and the violence it enables and stands with service members who deserve clear moral leadership from Republicans in Washington.”

“Rebranding symbols of lynching and genocide as merely ‘divisive’ is despicable,” said Senator Marx. “I wish the Trump administration would spend more time supporting our men and women serving our country instead of enabling hate that endangers them and their families.”

“I struggle to understand what message the Department of Homeland Security sought to send when it went out of its way to normalize explicit hate symbols like nooses and swastikas,” Senator Honig said. “This change helps no one and addresses no legitimate concern. I’ve heard no rational defense of this policy, not in normal times and certainly not amid surging antisemitism and the recent mass murder at a Hanukkah event in Sydney. We must be better than this, and I call on the administration to immediately rescind this directive and prioritize the safety and dignity of all Americans.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Kevin Coughlin | kevin.coughlin@cga.ct.gov | 203-710-0193

Senate Leaders Condemn Embrace of Hate Symbols by Trump’s DHS

Posted on by sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

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Senate Leaders Condemn Embrace of Hate Symbols by Trump’s DHS

HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), Senator Martha Marx (D-New London), and Senator Paul Honig (D-Harwinton) strongly denounced the Department of Homeland Security’s recent U.S. Coast Guard policy revision that removed the explicit designation of swastikas and nooses as “hate symbols” and instead labeled these symbols as “potentially divisive.”

“Swastikas and nooses are unmistakable representations of hatred, terror, and historical atrocity,” said Senate President Looney. “The decision to soften their classification is a political choice and part of a disturbing pattern of minimizing the significance of the symbols of hatred to appease extremists by President Trump. Coast Guard members and the public deserve leadership that stands clearly and unequivocally against hate, especially as antisemitism and racially motivated violence rise across the country.”

“An administration that thinks a swastika and a noose are only potentially divisive shows the rot of hatred that infests the highest levels of the Trump administration,” said Senate Majority Leader Duff. “Connecticut rejects hate and the violence it enables and stands with service members who deserve clear moral leadership from Republicans in Washington.”

“Rebranding symbols of lynching and genocide as merely ‘divisive’ is despicable,” said Senator Marx. “I wish the Trump administration would spend more time supporting our men and women serving our country instead of enabling hate that endangers them and their families.”

“I struggle to understand what message the Department of Homeland Security sought to send when it went out of its way to normalize explicit hate symbols like nooses and swastikas,” Senator Honig said. “This change helps no one and addresses no legitimate concern. I’ve heard no rational defense of this policy, not in normal times and certainly not amid surging antisemitism and the recent mass murder at a Hanukkah event in Sydney. We must be better than this, and I call on the administration to immediately rescind this directive and prioritize the safety and dignity of all Americans.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Kevin Coughlin | kevin.coughlin@cga.ct.gov | 203-710-0193

Duff, Norwalk Delegation Applaud New State Bonding for Major Infrastructure and Housing Investments

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Sen. Duff and Norwalk State Delegation Applaud New State Bonding for Major Infrastructure and Housing Investments

HARTFORD – Today, Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) and the Norwalk state legislative delegation celebrated the approval of significant state bonding for Norwalk that will strengthen mobility, improve pedestrian safety, revitalize key commercial corridors, and support senior housing. The funding was adopted at today’s meeting of the State Bond Commission.

The State Bond Commission approved the following allocations for Norwalk:

  • Lexington Avenue Mobility Upgrades – $2.5 million
    This investment will redesign Lexington Avenue to improve traffic flow, enhance safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, and support ongoing neighborhood revitalization efforts. This funding was recently approved in an October meeting of the Community Investment Fund and received final approval by the State Bond Commission today.
  • Washington Street Streetscape – $1 million
    Funding will support streetscape improvements—including lighting, sidewalks, and pedestrian enhancements—on one of Norwalk’s most vibrant mixed-use corridors in South Norwalk. This funding was also recently approved in an October meeting of the Community Investment Fund and received final approval by the State Bond Commission today.
  • Sidewalk construction along Winfield Street – $3 million
  • Sidewalks on Silvermine Avenue between Bartlett Avenue and New Canaan Avenue – $1.2 million
  • Norwalk Senior Housing Project at 79 South Main Street & 6–8 Chestnut Street – $180,000
    This grant supports continued planning and development of affordable senior housing in South Norwalk, ensuring older residents can stay in the community they call home.

“This bond agenda delivers real, practical investments that make Norwalk safer, more walkable, and more inclusive,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff. “From major corridor upgrades and sidewalk expansions to planning support for senior housing, this funding reflects our shared priority of investing in infrastructure that improves everyday life and positions Norwalk for continued growth. I want to thank Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for believing in Norwalk and helping us move these projects forward.”

“I am grateful that this critical funding for housing infrastructure and sidewalks was approved,” said Rep. Lucy Dathan. “I heard from many constituents about their concerns and the urgent need for improvements to the Silvermine sidewalks, and I am proud to help deliver these much-needed upgrades. These investments will strengthen our neighborhoods, improve safety and accessibility, and better connect residents to vital resources and opportunities. By laying the groundwork for long-term stability and economic growth, we are enhancing the overall quality of life in our community.”

“This has been a great year for grant funding for Norwalk, and I am glad that we can celebrate another round of state funding for the City before 2025 comes to a close,” said Rep. Johnson. “These improvements will enable Norwalk to go far in our ongoing work to modernize our City’s infrastructure, making our community more welcoming and safer for current residents and visitors alike. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the bond commission for funding these vital projects.”

“Once completed, these projects will greatly benefit individuals who travel by foot, as well as older residents, two groups that are often overlooked,” said Rep. Roberts. “Thank you again to Governor Lamont and the bond commission for your consideration.”

“I’m proud to serve as part of Norwalk’s state legislative delegation and to represent the 140th District, including much of South Norwalk,” said Rep. Simms. “These investments are about improving everyday life – making our streets safer, strengthening walkability, and supporting seniors who want to remain in the community they call home. This funding reflects a shared commitment to smart infrastructure investments that help Norwalk grow in a way that is inclusive, practical, and built to last.”

“I want to thank Governor Lamont, Senator Duff and the Bond Commission for continuing to prioritize Norwalk residents’ quality of life through these critical infrastructure investments,” said Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling. “I am proud of the progress we’ve made in building an integrated, safe, and accessible mobility network while strengthening Norwalk’s infrastructure in partnership with the State. Funding for sidewalks on Winfield Street and Silvermine Avenue, mobility upgrades on Lexington Avenue, streetscape improvements on Washington Street, and more affordable housing for our seniors will help Norwalk continue to increase livability, safety and affordability for our residents.”

“We are incredibly excited and grateful for Senator Duff’s leadership in securing these critical state investments for Norwalk,” said Jim Travers, Norwalk Director of Transportation, Mobility, and Parking. “These projects will significantly improve safety, accessibility, and mobility for people of all ages and abilities—whether they are walking, biking, taking transit, or driving. The upgrades to Lexington Avenue, Winfield Street, and Silvermine Avenue directly advance Norwalk’s Complete Streets legislation by creating safer, more connected corridors that support our residents, local businesses, and neighborhoods. This funding allows us to continue building a transportation network that reflects our community’s values and prioritizes safety for everyone.”

Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Welcomes $900k for Trumbull Veterans Center Project

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Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Welcomes $900k for Trumbull Veterans Center Project

TRUMBULL – Today, State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox applauded the approval of $900,000 for the Trumbull Veterans and First Responder Center project. The State Bond Commission approved the funding unanimously on Thursday.

The project is in Phase 2 and the building committee worked together with Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox to apply for this supplemental state funding, as the project has struggled with the rising cost of construction.

Once completed, the center will be a 5,500 square-foot multi-use facility for Trumbull and the region’s veterans, first responders, small businesses, civic groups and residents. Professional staff will offer access to job training and career development, healthcare and more. The facility will be available for use by local organizations, and for rent for social functions like weddings, showers and birthdays, which will provide a stream of income to fund operational expenses and programs.

“This funding is a great example of a strong state and local partnership and I’m proud that we were able to secure this funding to better support the brave men and women who served our country,” said Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox. “I am grateful to First Selectwoman Tesoro and Chairman Ray Baldwin for their vision and leadership in getting this tremendous project underway, and to the State Bond Commission for approving these critical funds.”

“I want to thank Senator Gadkar Wilcox for her leadership in securing this critical supplemental funding. I also thank Representative Keitt who was a strong advocate for these funds and the entire delegation. With the continued efforts of our Building committee and community we hope to go to vertical construction in the spring,” said Trumbull First Selectwoman Vicki Tesoro.

“I very much appreciate the leadership of Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox in getting this done for us, with the support of Representatives Keitt and Rutigliano,” said Building Committee Chairman Raymond Baldwin Jr. “The Senator has embraced and championed this important project, and I also appreciate the Governor’s support and consideration. The State has been a strong partner to the Trumbull Veterans & First Responders Center and this project will help the center serve 30,000 veterans in the greater Trumbull area.”

Sen. Cohen, Reps. Comey, Rader Welcome $100k for Branford Food Pantry

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Sen. Cohen, Reps. Comey, Rader Welcome $100k for Branford Food Pantry

For Immediate Release
Contact: Garnet McLaughlin – Garnet.McLaughlin@cga.ct.gov – 860-304-2319
 

BRANFORD – Today, State Senator Christine Cohen and State Representatives Robin Comey and Moira Rader welcomed $100,000 for the Branford Food Pantry. The state Bond Commission voted unanimously on Thursday to approve the funding.
 
Senator Cohen and Representatives Comey and Rader submitted requests to the Bond Commission for this funding. The funding will replace aging infrastructure at the Branford Food Pantry, specifically an aging conveyor belt which moves thousands of pounds of food into the Food Pantry everyday. The food pantry will also use these funds to upgrade their flooring to a commercial grade flooring for durability and to comply with health regulations.
 
The Branford Food Pantry provides groceries to over 200 families every week and provides critical support to Branford families in need:

  • More than 30% of Branford students qualify for free or reduced lunch programs
  • 1 in 6 residents struggle with food insecurity
  • 4,272 Branford households are struggling to make ends meet, 39% of all households
  • Branford is also the home to as many as 3,852 Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) families with an additional 874 families living in poverty.

 
“I am so pleased that the Bond Commission approved this vital funding that will help the Branford Food Pantry continue to support our families in need,” said Sen. Christine Cohen (D-Branford, Guilford, Madison, Killingworth, Durham, East Haven, North Branford, Middlefield). “Families everywhere are feeling the strain of higher prices, and the work of the Branford Food Pantry has never been so important. I’m grateful to Jaye and her team for their work, and to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for approving this funding.”
 
“The Branford Food Pantry plays a vital role in supporting families and seniors in our town and I’m proud to support this $100,000 bonding allocation. This investment reflects the strength of our partnership between state government and local organizations serving our most vulnerable residents. When we work together, we can deliver real, meaningful support to those who need it most,” said Rep. Robin Comey (D-Branford).
 
“Food insecurity is a real and growing challenge for many across our communities, including far too many right here in Branford,” said Rep. Moira Rader (D-Branford & Guilford). “This funding will help ensure that the Branford Food Pantry can continue to serve families with dignity, safety, and efficiency at a time when demand remains high. I’m grateful to the Bond Commission, Governor Lamont, and my legislative colleagues for supporting this investment, and to the dedicated staff and volunteers who show up every day to support our neighbors in need.” 
 
“Approval of this bond issue on behalf of the Branford Food Pantry means so much to us,” said Jaye Andrews, President of the Branford Food Pantry. “We are located on the basement level and each week we move thousands of pounds of food in and out of the Pantry as we serve over 200 Branford households struggling to make ends meet. This funding will enable us to replace our ancient conveyor system—our life line for moving so much food—with a safe and reliable conveyor. Additionally, we are able to make interior improvements which will provide a cleaner, healthier environment for our clients and the dozens of volunteers that make the Branford Food Pantry come to life. We are truly grateful to everyone who stood up for our 100% volunteer organization and our community to make this funding possible.”

 

EAST HARTFORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $3.8 MILLION STATE BOND COMMISSION INVESTMENT IN RENTSCHLER FIELD

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Senator Anwar

EAST HARTFORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $3.8 MILLION STATE BOND COMMISSION INVESTMENT IN RENTSCHLER FIELD

Today, the East Hartford delegation of lawmakers including State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), House Majority Leader Jason Rojas (D-East Hartford, Manchester), State Representative Henry Genga (D-East Hartford) and State Representative Patrick Biggins (D-East Hartford, Manchester) welcomed the State Bond Commission’s approval of $3.8 million to be used for upgrades and improvements to Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field in East Hartford.

The funds will be used to improve security, communications, television broadcast and audio-visual upgrades at the stadium and field. The site is the home stadium of the UConn Huskies football team, also host to events including international soccer games and concerts. It is owned by the state.

“The state’s continued investments in Pratt and Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field will be directly beneficial for the University of Connecticut, East Hartford community and numerous football fans, whether they’re at the stadium or watching from home,” said Sen. Anwar. “I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their consideration.”

“I thank the Governor and the Bond Commission for approving funding for continued improvements to Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field,” said Majority Leader Rojas. “From hosting local, national, and international events to serving as the home of an undefeated UConn football season, The Rent in East Hartford is a point of pride for our state, and investing in modern upgrades ensures a safe, accessible, and first-class experience for fans and visitors alike.”

“We are grateful for the funds granted to finance critical upgrades and improvements to Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field,” said Rep. Genga. “These investments will support a wide range of enhancements, including strengthened security; upgraded communications systems; and modernized television broadcast capabilities. This support ensures the stadium can continue to serve the community safely, efficiently, and at a high standard.”

“Rentschler Field has become part of the fabric of East Hartford and Connecticut,” Rep. Biggins said. “The home to our beloved UConn Huskies football team has provided many memorable moments, including this season. We must ensure that the facility is in optimal condition for the football program and the many fans who visit. So, the upgrades and improvements are necessary and welcome. I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving the funds to ensure The Rent stays on top of its game for many years to come.”