Looney, Paolillo Welcome $650,000 in State Bonding for Neighborhood Parks
HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M Looney (D-New Haven) and State Representative Al Paolillo, Jr. (D-New Haven) welcomed $650,000 in state bonding for improvement at four local parks and the Annex Little League. The specific projects and amounts are:
Quinnipiac River Park – $250,000 – implement and restore city plan; Fort Wooster Park – $100,000 – upgrade and restore park and facilities ; Fairmont Park – $100,000 – improvement to recreation areas; Lighthouse Park – $100,000 – renovation of bathhouses, erosion prevention, beach upgrades; Annex Little League – $100,000 – upgrades to little league park facilities.
“I am thrilled to announce the arrival of new state bonding dedicated to enhancing our local parks and the Annex Little League facilities,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney. “This investment represents our ongoing commitment to creating vibrant, accessible spaces for the community to enjoy. With these additional resources, the City can now embark on important projects that will breathe new life into our parks, ensuring they continue as cherished gathering places for families and neighbors. Furthermore, the upgrades of the Annex Little League facilities will enhance the safe and nurturing environment for our young athletes to develop their skills and forge lifelong memories. I extend my sincere gratitude to Governor Lamont for his partnership and support in addressing these projects for New Haven.”
“This state funding will support parks and recreational facilities across New Haven, ensuring that these well-visited locations remain in a state of good repair for people to enjoy for years to come,” said Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission and sets its agenda. “I am glad we could partner with the city to get these projects done.”
“Thank you to Governor Lamont and the hard work of the New Haven Delegation for recognizing the important role that these parks play in improving the quality of life in the New Haven community for the families and visitors who will benefit,” said Representative Paolillo. “The $650,000 will go a long way towards making the necessary upgrades and improvements to these recreational areas, such as the Annex Little League and Lighthouse Park among other projects, which provide such positive, enriching programs and events for our youth and families.”
The Bond Agenda was approved on Friday, June 30.
EAST HARTORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $14.23 MILLION IN STATE BOND FUNDING FOR REDEVELOPMENT AND PLAYSCAPES
EAST HARTORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $14.23 MILLION IN STATE BOND FUNDING FOR REDEVELOPMENT AND PLAYSCAPES
Today, the East Hartford delegation of lawmakers welcomed $14.23 million in state bond funding approved and released by the State Bond Commission supporting redevelopment efforts in two significant business areas of town, as well as for replacements of playscapes at local schools to provide new resources to schoolchildren.
“These funds will support important initiatives in East Hartford including important economic redevelopment and housing development, while also ensuring local children will have improved resources to learn and play,” said State Senator Saud Anwar (D-East Hartford). “I’m very encouraged by Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission’s investment in our town.”
“From support for housing initiatives to improving playgrounds for our kids and continuing to support economic development efforts, this funding is the result of a delegation that works together to secure state resources to support our priorities,” said Majority Leader Jason Rojas (D- East Hartford, Manchester). “I want to thank Governor Lamont and the state Bond Commission for prioritizing this important funding and look forward to seeing the outcome of the investment.
“These allocated funds promote new beginnings and invest in the future of East Hartford,” said State Representative Genga. “The Founders Plaza site has the potential to provide an economic boost to our city. Clearing the area is an important first step towards a revitalized East Hartford. Additionally, meaningful outdoor activity is just as crucial to the development of a child as a good education. The funding for playscape replacements will provide our children with a space to explore creatively and have fun. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for their inclusion of East Hartford.”
“This funding invests in three important pillars of our community – economic redevelopment, housing and resources for children – so I appreciate the administration and the State Bond Commission’s approval and recognition,” said State Rep. Jeff Currey (D-East Hartford, Manchester). “This will help make East Hartford a better place to work, live, play and learn for all of its residents.”
“I’m glad that we can get this state funding out to East Hartford to support these projects that will aid in economic and job growth in the town and build more housing,” said Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission and sets its agenda.
Among the many projects with funding approved by the State Bond Commission today were several in East Hartford, including:
$6.5 million for the abatement and demolition of buildings on and adjacent to the Founders Plaza site on East River Drive in East Hartford, aiding economic redevelopment in the area; $6.98 million in previously allocated funds will now be committed to support the construction of new residential units on the former Showcase Cinema site, helping create new housing in the area; funds were previously allocated for redevelopment of the Rentschler Field and Silver Lane corridor in 2018; $750,000 for a grant-in-aid to the City of East Hartford for playscape replacements at East Hartford elementary schools.
NEW LONDON DELEGATION GRATEFUL AS STATE BOND COMMISSION APPROVES FUNDING FOR EASTERN CONNECTICUT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RELOCATION
NEW LONDON DELEGATION GRATEFUL AS STATE BOND COMMISSION APPROVES FUNDING FOR EASTERN CONNECTICUT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RELOCATION
Today, the New London delegation of lawmakers including State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London), State Representative Anthony Nolan (D-New London) and State Representative Christine Conley (D-New London) thanked the State Bond Commission and Governor Lamont for their investment in the 20th Senate District as the Commission approved a $120,000 grant that will support the relocation of the Eastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce from Waterford to downtown New London.
“The Eastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce is investing in New London and working to support our communities’ economic success. I’m so glad the state is supporting this effort,” said Sen. Marx. “The resources the Chamber will bring to downtown New London will be beneficial to not only the town but the entire region. I’m so grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support.
“I am thrilled the Eastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce will be moving to New London,” Rep. Nolan said. “This relocation will bring more attention and business to our thriving community, and I can’t wait to see the results from this partnership.”
“Moving the Eastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce to New London helps residents in the short and long term,” Rep. Conley said. “The Chamber sees the great opportunities New London has for even more economic success, and this is the latest sign of our community’s immense potential.”
“For many years, the Eastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce has assisted small businesses in New London in their efforts to grow and create new jobs,” said Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission and sets its agenda. “By partnering with this organization on this project, the state is helping ensure that New London businesses continue to have the support of this chamber for many more years to come.”
The State Bond Commission today approved a number of funding releases, including an $125,000 grant supporting the Chamber of Commerce’s move from Waterford to downtown New London. The Chamber plans to offer a startup incubator and coworking space called the Thames River Innovation Center, which will serve to support training and other services to support the region.
SENATOR MARX THANKS STATE BOND COMMISSION AS ROCKY NECK STATE PARK RECEIVES $2.725 MILLION FOR FACILITY UPGRADES
SENATOR MARX THANKS STATE BOND COMMISSION AS ROCKY NECK STATE PARK RECEIVES $2.725 MILLION FOR FACILITY UPGRADES
Today, State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London) thanked the State Bond Commission and Governor Lamont for their investment in the 20th Senate District as the Commission approved a $2.725 million grant that will support upgrades at Rocky Neck State Park in East Lyme.
“I am so proud that our local park, offering beautiful recreation opportunities to residents state-wide, will receive additional funding for important upgrades,” said Sen. Marx. “This will make sure Rocky Neck State Park remains a local landmark for decades to come. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their consideration.”
“With a soft sandy beach, trails, and salt marsh viewing platforms, Rocky Neck State Park is a beautiful shoreline natural resource that has been protected for visitors to enjoy in perpetuity,” said Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission and sets its agenda. “We are releasing this state funding so that we can maintain its operations and keep its valuable amenities accessible to everyone for many more years.”
The State Bond Commission today approved a number of funding releases, including an allotment of $2.725 million for Rocky Neck State Park in East Lyme. The funds are intended to support utility upgrades and replacements at the state park, which has significant infrastructure that is decades old and requires upgrades and repairs. This project will support a feasibility and design study, construction, and upgrades of systems at the state park such as sewer, electric and telecommunications. This work will allow for better availability of public amenities in the park.
Looney, Duff Statement on Assault of Rep. Khan
Looney, Duff Statement on Assault of Rep. Khan
HARTFORD – Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff released the following statement in response to the assault of State Representative Maryam Khan.
“We are saddened to learn of the assault on our House colleague, State Representative Maryam Khan of Windsor, as she was leaving religious services Wednesday night in Hartford. We send our prayers to Rep. Khan for a speedy recovery and to her and her family and friends and all Muslims that they may continue to observe and celebrate their faith in peace.”
Looney, Duff Statement on Assault of Rep. Khan
Looney, Duff Statement on Assault of Rep. Khan
HARTFORD – Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff released the following statement in response to the assault of State Representative Maryam Khan.
“We are saddened to learn of the assault on our House colleague, State Representative Maryam Khan of Windsor, as she was leaving religious services Wednesday night in Hartford. We send our prayers to Rep. Khan for a speedy recovery and to her and her family and friends and all Muslims that they may continue to observe and celebrate their faith in peace.”
Looney Statement on Passing of Governor Lowell Weicker
Looney Statement on Passing of Governor Lowell Weicker
HARTFORD – Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney released the following statement on the passing of Governor Lowell Weicker.
“Lowell Weicker was a champion for what needed to be done even when it was unpopular. During his four years as governor, I served my last term in House and first term in the Senate. I’ll never forget when I met with him then to advocate for state funding to renovate the New Haven Coliseum and talking through all the complications and issues that needed to be addressed at the venue. Governor Weicker at the end just looked at me and said ‘You should blow that place up.’ That meeting was indicative of his blunt, straightforward, and humorous style that he brought as governor and for years after as an elder statesman in Connecticut. I am saddened that he has passed and my prayers are with his family and friends.”
SENATOR NEEDLEMAN GRATEFUL AS WESTBROOK, ESSEX RECEIVE STATE BOND FUNDING FOR SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS AND UPGRADES
SENATOR NEEDLEMAN GRATEFUL AS WESTBROOK, ESSEX RECEIVE STATE BOND FUNDING FOR SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS AND UPGRADES
Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) thanked the State Bond Commission and Governor Lamont for their investment in the 33rd Senate District as Westbrook and Essex were each approved to receive $250,000 and $195,000, respectively, for safety and equipment upgrades in their communities.
“I’m grateful that Connecticut is investing in local safety and emergency services,” said Sen. Needleman. “These funds represent significant improvements for the entire region in the event of future emergencies and will benefit residents when they are in need. I’m thankful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support.”
“When it comes to emergency management resources, I think it is critical that our state government partner with municipalities to ensure that these tools are available and ready for when residents who live in these towns need them the most,” said Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission and sets its agenda. “I am glad we could get this state funding out to Westbrook and Essex for these important purposes.”
The State Bond Commission today approved a number of funding releases, including an allotment of $250,000 in Westbrook for the assessment and conceptual design of the Valley Shore Regional 9-1-1 Center. The Center provides emergency services to residents of towns including Chester, Clinton, Deep River, Durham, Essex, Haddam, Killingworth, Lyme, Middlefield, Old Lyme and Westbrook.
The funds also included $195,000 to Essex for the construction of an emergency radio tower, upgrades to emergency equipment, and installing a generator. This comes as the Commission approved $165,000 in 2022 to support this project – the project needed additional funding, which the state provided through this funding.
Sen. Lesser Releases Statement on Supreme Court Ruling on Student Loan Forgiveness
Sen. Lesser Releases Statement on Supreme Court Ruling on Student Loan Forgiveness
HARTFORD, CT – State Senator Matt Lesser(D-Middletown) issues a statement on the Supreme Court ruling which strikes down President Biden’s Student Loan Forgiveness program, which would have forgiven up to $10,000 in debt for borrowers earning less than $125,000 a year and an additional $10,000 for Pell Grant recipients.
“This is yet another egregious ruling by an activist Supreme Court increasingly out of touch with the American people,” said Sen. Lesser. “In this case, Secretary Cardona’s debt relief plan was clearly authorized by Congress in the 2003 HEROES Act – which was put into use by Democratic and Republican Secretaries of Education during the pandemic. Today’s decision will hurt Connecticut’s economy and I urge the Biden Administration to explore other administrative avenues for relief. Here in Connecticut, our newly funded Office of Student Loan Ombudsman will soon help borrowers navigate a complicated and confusing landscape and access help and support. I strongly encourage residents to use this resource. Higher education remains a critical pathway to prosperity and the middle class, but the Supreme Court’s decision today makes things harder for a vast number of people.”
Back in 2015, Senator Lesser fought to create the Student Loan Bill of Rights, which authorized a Student Loan Ombudsman within the Department of Banking. Connecticut was the first state in the country to regulate student loan servicer companies. This session, the budget included funding for the Student Loan Ombudsman to directly help Connecticut borrowers navigate loan repayment and other issues.
Senator Martha Marx Releases Statement on Passing of Governor Lowell Weicker
Senator Martha Marx Releases Statement on Passing of Governor Lowell Weicker
State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London) released the following statement on the passing of Governor Lowell Weicker.
“Former Governor Weicker was such a strong force in our community. I looked up to him as he was someone I admired and respected for his dedication to our constituents. When I was campaigning for my seat in the Senate, he was so very kind to me. I will never forget his compassion for others and his commitment toward making Connecticut a better community for everyone. Lowell Weicker will be missed greatly. My thoughts are with his family.”