SEN. KUSHNER WELCOMES FIRST ROUND OF INDOOR AIR QUALITY SCHOOL GRANTS
The day after speaking at a day-long forum in the Legislative Office Building to promote clean air in every school, state Senator Julie Kushner (D-Danbury), who is Co-Chair of Connecticut’s School Indoor Air Quality working group, today welcomed news that 50 Connecticut schools in19 different towns and regional school districts will receive $56 million in state grants under a new program designed to improve air quality in local schools.
The grants, ranging from $632 to $6.6 million, were announced today by Governor Ned Lamont at an event in Waterbury. Cities and towns are required to provide matching grants to fund the project costs. Examples of eligible projects include replacing, upgrading, or repairing boilers and other heating and ventilation components; replacing controls and technology systems related to HVAC operations; or installing or upgrading air conditioning or ventilation systems.
“There is a clear and provable need for better air conditioning and ventilation in our public schools, many of which were built decades ago before the effects of poor air and climate change had been studied and understood,” Sen. Kushner said. “Now we know how to keep students and teachers healthier in schools, not absent and at home fighting asthma or some other respiratory disease. The benefits of these investments will pass on to future generations, and I’m happy to have been part of the solution to this longstanding problem.”
The clean air grants vary widely, depending on the size of the school and the exact project. Locally, Ridgefield received $21,000 in state grants to help cover the cost of $50,700 worth of clean air projects at Barlow Mountain, Veterans Park, Ridgefield High School, East Ridgefield Middle School, Brachville, and Farmingville schools.
The grants are being awarded through the HVAC Indoor Air Quality Grants Program for Public Schools, a newly established state program that is administered by the Connecticut Department of Administrative Services. Sen. Kushner helped create the program last year, as part of the Democrat’s budget adjustment bill that Governor Lamont signed into law in 2022 (Public Act 22-118). The program has been allocated $150 million through two revenue streams, including $75 million from state bond funding and $75 million from the state’s share of federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, which were also approved by Democrats.
In addition to the funding, the 2022 law requires school districts to conduct a uniform inspection and evaluation of their school HVAC systems every five years, requires HVAC inspection reports to be made public at board of education meetings, and to report any corrective action taken.
Meanwhile, the working group Sen. Kushner co-chairs is studying the issue and will make recommendations related to indoor air quality in schools.
On Tuesday, Sen. Kushner took part in the “Breathing Better: Healthy Schools Forum” in the Legislative Office Building in Hartford as part of National Healthy Schools Day, which promoted clean air in every school and the need to urgently address the problem of unsafe air caused by poor heating and ventilations systems. The forum also commemorated the 20th anniversary of Connecticut’s landmark 2003 School Indoor Air Quality legislation, highlighting the importance of clean indoor school environments to children’s health and ability to learn.
Senator Hochadel, Meriden Delegation Welcomes $2.4 Million in State Bonding
Senator Hochadel, Meriden Delegation Welcomes $2.4 Million in State Bonding
Today, the Meriden Delegation comprised of state Senator Jan Hochadel (D-Meriden), and Representatives Michael D. Quinn (D-Meriden), Hilda E. Santiago (D-Meriden), and Jack Fazzino (D-Meriden), is welcoming $2.4 million in funding approved by the State Bond Commission for projects in Meriden. Funds will be allocated to the State Forensic Lab and Mulcahy Campus.
“This allocation of funding toward our state police troops is well deserved as our officers work to protect us every day,” said Sen. Hochadel. “They should have a safe and healthy environment to report to every day for work. I am grateful to Governor Lamont and the state Bond Commission for their investment in these renovation repairs in Meriden.”
“I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving these funds to make needed improvements at Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection facilities in Meriden,” said Rep. Fazzino. “I am glad we have the commitment to fund critical infrastructure repairs for those who protect and improve the quality of life for all us.”
“I am pleased to have helped secure vital funds for these two entities to assist them making necessary improvements for their continued vital forensic and cutting-edge services,” said Rep. Quinn. “I am grateful to the Governor and the State Bond Commission for prioritizing these projects.”
“The Forensic Lab and Mulcahy Campus are established landmarks in Meriden that merit all the help we can provide to support their operations,” said Rep. Santiago. “I am delighted to have worked with my Meriden colleagues on securing this funding.”
Under the Bonding Agenda, funding has been approved that will be utilized for troop and facility emergency infrastructure repairs and renovations for operational use on a 24/7 basis for the State Police troops. Additionally, funding will be utilized to support statewide troop facilities in need of continual infrastructure repairs.
$1.2 million has been set to help clean room renovations at the State Forensic Lab in Meriden, and $1.2 million has been appropriated to help fund heating system installations at Mulcahy Campus in Meriden.
Stratford Delegation Welcomes Over $2.4 Million in State Bonding
Stratford Delegation Welcomes Over $2.4 Million in State Bonding
Today, the Stratford Delegation, consisting of state Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport / Stratford) and Representative Joseph Gresko (D-Stratford), is welcoming over $2.4 million to Stratford, recently approved by the State Bond Commission. The funding will help improve the South End Community Center in Stratford.
“The South End Community Center harbors some of the most eclectic and diverse community members with a sustainable suite of programs that work to make our residents successful,” said Sen. Gaston. “The improvements being made will enhance the occupancy and allow for the success of even more young students, providing for a bigger gesture to help those with food insecurity, and provide a safe haven for our seniors and most vulnerable residents. As a major champion for this project, I am thankful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving this much needed funding that will make our community center a secure outlet for our community.”
“Many thanks to the State Bond Commission for recognizing Stratford’s South End Community Center as a vital service provider in the community,” said Rep. Gresko. “Upgrades made to the facility as a result of this funding will expand programs and services for residents.”
“This community center in Stratford provides many services that benefit the town’s residents, and that is why I am glad the state could partner with the town on this project and make it happen,” Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission, said.
Under the Bonding Agenda: The South End Community Center is being allocated $2,446,463 for interior and exterior renovations. The improvements will result in expanded after school program capacity, additional office space, expansion of community food pantry, expanded capacity for daycare enrollment, and increase the accessibility of space for seniors.
NEW LONDON DELEGATION WELCOMES STATE BOND COMMISSION APPROVAL OF $95,000 FOR PUBLIC LIBRARY RENOVATIONS
NEW LONDON DELEGATION WELCOMES STATE BOND COMMISSION APPROVAL OF $95,000 FOR PUBLIC LIBRARY RENOVATIONS
Today, the New London delegation welcomed the release of $95,000 in grant funding by the State Bond Commission at its April 6 meeting to support renovations to the Public Library of New London. The work involved will include renovations to the building’s bathrooms and reading rooms and improvements to the library’s elevators.
The funds are sourced in three chunks that were unused and forfeited by other communities. Funds originally committed to library improvement projects in Sharon ($75,000), Greenwich ($10,000) and Derby ($10,000) have been reallocated to New London in support of this project.
“Our library is an important community resource, and I’m glad these renovations will make sure our residents can enjoy it to the fullest,” said State Senator Martha Marx. “I’m grateful to the State Bond Commission and Governor Lamont for supporting New London in a way that will pay dividends for years to come.”
“This funding will make visiting the library a better experience for New London residents of all ages,” State Representative Christine Conley said. “The library is a staple of our community, and I’m thrilled to see the renovations to come.”
“These renovations will help foster an environment of lifelong learning among New London residents,” State Representative Anthony Nolan said. “Our library will continue to bring this community together, and I’m glad to see the wise investment of these funds.”
“The New London library provides an invaluable resource to the city’s residents, and I am glad that the state could partner with the city to ensure that these much-needed renovations can move forward and the services the library provides can continue for many years to come,” said Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission.
Sen. Maher, Rep. Dathan Welcome $120,075 for Police Department Body and Dash Cameras and Video Storage Devices in Various Towns
Sen. Maher, Rep. Dathan Welcome $120,075 for Police Department Body and Dash Cameras and Video Storage Devices in Various Towns
HARTFORD, CT – State Senator Ceci Maher (D-Wilton) and state Representative Lucy Dathan (D-New Canaan, Norwalk) welcomed state funding totaling $120,075 across the 26th state Senate District. Municipalities received state funding for body and dash cameras for local police departments in New Canaan, Ridgefield, and Weston.
“Thank you to all those who worked hard to help secure these funds and to Governor Ned Lamont and the state’s Bond Commission,” said Sen. Maher. “Body and dash camera funding helps to make our already safe communities even more secure for both residents and law enforcement.”
“I am pleased to have helped secure state funds to support our New Canaan Police Department to invest in much needed equipment,” said Rep. Lucy Dathan. “These updated technologies will assist with modernizing our police force and will provide our police officers with the necessary gear to keep them safer while they work protecting and serving our community.”
“Body cameras have been proven to provide both police and civilians with a valuable resource that benefits public safety, and I am glad that the state could partner with these towns to get this funding approved so they can purchase this equipment,” Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission, said.
Per the state bonding agenda, Weston ($41,264), Ridgefield ($40,250) and New Canaan ($38,561) are receiving funds in part “to reimburse fourteen police departments for the purchase of body cameras, dash cameras, and video storage devices.”
SEN. KUSHNER AND DANBURY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION CELEBRATE STATE FUNDING FOR DANBURY HACKERSPACE EXPANSION
SEN. KUSHNER AND DANBURY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION CELEBRATE STATE FUNDING FOR DANBURY HACKERSPACE EXPANSION
HARTFORD – The State Bond Commission today approved $510,761 for Danbury Hackerspace to construct a second location in the former Crown Plaza Hotel in Danbury.
Danbury Hackerspace is a locally based nonprofit makerspace and coworking facility. It includes resources for entrepreneurs and creatives to utilize, such as 3D printers, prototyping tools, and a mockup studio. Danbury hackerspace will use the state grant to help make renovations to the new space, purchase equipment, and hire student interns to help run the hackerspace.
“The Danbury Hackerspace has proven itself over the past decade to be a business incubator for hundreds of entrepreneurs and artists. Now, with this substantial infusion of state funding, they’ll be able to expand their reach and their impact even further,” said state Senator Julie Kushner (D-Danbury).
“Danbury Hackerspace has been an innovator and incubator since 2012,” noted state Representative Bob Godfrey (D-110). “This funding will be split about 50/50 for renovations and for equipment. It’s exactly what Connecticut needs to build up our technology businesses.”
“I want to thank the State Bond Commission for approving funding for the Danbury Hackerspace. For the past decade, the Danbury Hackerspace has been an invaluable resource to our community and helped individuals cultivate and expand their businesses. Thanks to this funding, they will continue to do so for years to come,” said state Representative Farley Santos (D- 109).
“This state funding will help Danbury Hackerspace build one of the largest business incubators in the region right here in the 2nd District, at the former Crowne Plaza Hotel at Exit 2 in Danbury. Entrepreneurs and inventors will have access to 3D printers, industrial lasers, a machine shop, a wood shop, and studio spaces. Given their power in our economy, startups deserve this support and attention as we work to revitalize our economies in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for supporting this exciting workspace and helping us breathe new life into Connecticut’s innovative economy,” said state Representative Raghib Allie-Brennan (D-2).
“I want to congratulate Mike Kaltschnee on expanding the Danbury Hackerspace to a new location on the City’s westside, while keeping their location on Main Street. The organization provides tools, classes and assistance to people looking to start up new small businesses, which are the backbone of our economy,” said state Representative Rachel Chaleski (R-138).
The existing Danbury Hackerspace location at 158 Main Street will remain open.
SEN. RAHMAN, REP. WEIR WELCOME $412,317 IN STATE GRANTS TO UPGRADE RHAM HIGH SCHOOL SCHOOL AIR FILTRATION
SEN. RAHMAN, REP. WEIR WELCOME $412,317 IN STATE GRANTS TO UPGRADE RHAM HIGH SCHOOL SCHOOL AIR FILTRATION
Today, State Senator MD Rahman (D-Manchester) and State Representative Steve Weir (R-55) welcomed this week’s announcement that Governor Ned Lamont’s administration will award RHAM High School through Region District 8 with $412,317 through the HVAC Indoor Air Quality Grants Program for Public Schools to improve air filtration and quality. This is part of a $56 million grant release to school systems across the state.
RHAM High School will receive $249,424 for school HVAC upgrades and $162,894 for locker room HVAC upgrades; Region District 8 will supply remaining project costs. The funds can be used for replacing, upgrading or repairing boilers and other heating/ventilation components; replacing controls and technology systems for HVAC operations; installing or upgrading air conditioning or ventilation systems; or other work approved by the Department of Administrative Services.
“Students, and student-athletes, need healthy conditions to learn, grow and thrive,” said Sen. Rahman. “I’m encouraged that this funding will make RHAM High School a cleaner school for all students. I’m grateful to the Governor’s administration for its support.”
“All three of my girls have attended RHAM Middle School, and my youngest is currently at RHAM High School,” Rep. Weir said. “RHAM has a quality facilities staff and I’m confident that they will provide input on how to ensure these upgrades improve the student experience and provide the most value for RHAM taxpayers.”
Governor Lamont said, “One thing the COVID-19 pandemic exposed is that many school buildings, particularly those that are of a certain age, are in serious need of air quality improvements. Modernized ventilation systems provide an important public health function that filtrate the air and reduce airborne contaminants, including particles containing viruses. Most importantly, these air filtration systems will help ensure that our students can continue receiving their education in-person, in the classroom, where they learn best. When the pandemic began, we dedicated more than $165 million in our federal relief funding to make air filtration upgrades in schools. Now, with this new state program, we have a dedicated source of funding to continue these upgrades and partner with schools on these much-needed infrastructure improvements.”
The grants program, administered by the state Department of Administrative Services, was created as part of the budget adjustment bill passed by lawmakers and signed into law in the spring of 2022. The law further requires schools to inspect and evaluate HVAC systems every five years, requires these reports to be made public, and requires the reporting of any corrective action taken.
EAST HARTFORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $151,137 IN STATE GRANTS TO UPGRADE SCHOOL AIR FILTRATION
EAST HARTFORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $151,137 IN STATE GRANTS TO UPGRADE SCHOOL AIR FILTRATION
Today, the East Hartford delegation including State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), House Majority Leader Jason Rojas (D-East Hartford), State Representative Jeff Currey (D-East Hartford) and State Representative Henry Genga (D-East Hartford) welcomed this week’s announcement that Governor Ned Lamont’s administration will award East Hartford with $151,137 through the HVAC Indoor Air Quality Grants Program for Public Schools to improve air filtration and quality in East Hartford schools. This is part of a $56 million grant release to school systems across the state.
Langford Elementary School will receive $74,860 and Sunset Middle School will receive $76,277 to facilitate improvements and upgrades to heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems; East Hartford will supply remaining project costs. The funds can be used for replacing, upgrading or repairing boilers and other heating/ventilation components; replacing controls and technology systems for HVAC operations; installing or upgrading air conditioning or ventilation systems; or other work approved by the Department of Administrative Services.
“Our children deserve healthy and safe schools to support their growth and leaning however possible. They can’t properly learn without clean air, which is why I’m so grateful for this investment in our schools and the future of our state’s children,” said Sen. Anwar. “I would like to thank Governor Lamont and his administration for their commitment to improving respiratory health in our state’s schools.”
“Thanks to the Office of Governor Ned Lamont for providing clean air to our students and staff. These grants will help our children stay healthy while improving their ability to learn. I look forward to continuing to support improving the air quality in all of our schools. “ said House Majority Leader Rojas.
“When CT families send their students and educators off each day and into the halls of our schools, they shouldn’t have to worry about the air they breathe,” Rep. Currey said. “Providing a safe and healthy environment remains a priority in Connecticut, and as the Education Committee Co-Chair, I remain committed to ensuring Connecticut students receive a high-quality learning experience in a safe and nurturing environment.”
“I am grateful that our teachers and students will benefit from the improved quality of air in our schools. This wise investment will greatly improve their health and the quality of learning,” said Rep. Genga.
Governor Lamont said, “One thing the COVID-19 pandemic exposed is that many school buildings, particularly those that are of a certain age, are in serious need of air quality improvements. Modernized ventilation systems provide an important public health function that filtrate the air and reduce airborne contaminants, including particles containing viruses. Most importantly, these air filtration systems will help ensure that our students can continue receiving their education in-person, in the classroom, where they learn best. When the pandemic began, we dedicated more than $165 million in our federal relief funding to make air filtration upgrades in schools. Now, with this new state program, we have a dedicated source of funding to continue these upgrades and partner with schools on these much-needed infrastructure improvements.”
The grants program, administered by the state Department of Administrative Services, was created as part of the budget adjustment bill passed by lawmakers and signed into law in the spring of 2022. The law further requires schools to inspect and evaluate HVAC systems every five years, requires these reports to be made public, and requires the reporting of any corrective action taken.
Sen. Moore, Bridgeport Delegation Welcomes State Bonding For Projects in Bridgeport
Sen. Moore, Bridgeport Delegation Welcomes State Bonding For Projects in Bridgeport
Today, the Bridgeport Delegation comprised of state Senators Marilyn Moore (D-Bridgeport) and Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport) and state Representatives Christopher Rosario (D-Bridgeport), Fred Gee (D-Bridgeport), Marcus Brown (D-Bridgeport), Cristin McCarthy Vahey (D-Bridgeport), and Steve Stafstrom (D-Bridgeport), is welcoming over $8 million in funding approved by the State Bond Commission for projects in Bridgeport. Funds will be allocated to Career Resources, Inc., the Bridgeport Correctional Center, and the City of Bridgeport to complete the Civic Block project.
“Specifically, the East End of Bridgeport, has been waiting years for a project like the Civic Block to be completed,” said Sen Moore. “It could be the beginning of an economic awakening for the residents. I am grateful for the funding that will ensure the project is completed.”
“I am grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving funding that Bridgeport so desperately needs,” said Sen. Gaston. “Our residents deserve a friendly atmosphere that provides a one-stop-shop and addresses the essential needs of our residents. Revamping the Civic Block is critical in assisting in the revitalization, resurgence, and the vitality of the East End. And investing in Career Resources puts an investment in our residents. It places an importance on making sure help is given to those who may have lost their job and are seeking employment. I am also grateful to Gov. Lamont for placing importance on our Correctional Center. Upgrading and the installation of cameras works to impose a more secure protection of everyone.”
“I am proud of the hard work of the Bridgeport Delegation that helped pave the way for these important projects in our great city” said Rep. Rosario. “I look forward to seeing these investments take shape and thank Governor Lamont and the CIF Board for prioritizing our city in this round of funding.”
“Today’s vote by the State Bond Commission secures vital funding to make major investments in our community,” said Rep. McCarthy Vahey. “Over $8.1 million will go toward three separate projects in Bridgeport that will increase access to career resources, create vibrant, walkable community centers, and ensure public safety. I want to thank the Governor, the State Bond Commission, and most of all the members of the Bridgeport delegation for their continued advocacy and work to secure these funds.”
“This bond funding is critical for Bridgeport because it addresses resources for our workforce – present and future – in addition to trying to eliminate a food desert, where people may be at higher risk of diet-related conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease because of the lack of health food options,” said Rep. Stafstrom. “I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving this funding.”
“Career development and local retail spaces are causes we must always fight for,” said Rep. Gee. “I thank Governor Ned Lamont and the State Bond Commission for funding Career Resources, Inc. and Bridgeport’s Civic Block – projects that will help build a more just and equitable society.”
“This funding supports direct spending on much-needed resources that will improve the quality of life for residents in Bridgeport,” said Rep. Brown. “I would like to thank my colleagues in the Bridgeport Delegation for their work in securing this funding and Governor Lamont and the State Bonding Commission for their consideration.”
“Each of these projects are focused on providing important services to the residents of Bridgeport, such as job training and economic development, and I am glad that we could get this funding approved,” Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission, said.
Under the Bonding Agenda: $4,536,250 is set to be allocated to Career Resources, Inc. The funds will be used to assist the renovation of Main Street, a 42,500 sq ft building, to facilitate a suite of programs for job training, job placement, case management, referrals to support services, and onsite social enterprises. $3.5 million will be allocated to the City of Bridgeport to help finish the Civic Block project. The funds will be used to complete construction to create a 35,000 sq ft of retail space, including a grocery store in a neighborhood that is currently a food desert. $72,480 will be allocated to Bridgeport Correctional Center for camera installations.
Senator Gaston, Bridgeport Delegation Welcomes State Bonding For Projects in Bridgeport
Senator Gaston, Bridgeport Delegation Welcomes State Bonding For Projects in Bridgeport
Today, the Bridgeport Delegation comprised of state Senators Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport) and Marilyn Moore (D-Bridgeport), and state Representatives Christopher Rosario (D-Bridgeport), Fred Gee (D-Bridgeport), Marcus Brown (D-Bridgeport), Cristin McCarthy Vahey (D-Bridgeport), Andre Baker Jr. (D-Bridgeport) and Steve Stafstrom (D-Bridgeport), is welcoming over $8 million in funding approved by the State Bond Commission for projects in Bridgeport. Funds will be allocated to Career Resources, Inc., the Bridgeport Correctional Center, and the City of Bridgeport to complete the Civic Block project.
“I am grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving funding that Bridgeport so desperately needs,” said Sen. Gaston. “Our residents deserve a friendly atmosphere that provides a one-stop-shop and addresses the essential needs of our residents. Revamping the Civic Block is critical in assisting in the revitalization, resurgence, and the vitality of the East End. And investing in Career Resources puts an investment in our residents. It places an importance on making sure help is given to those who may have lost their job and are seeking employment. I am also grateful to Gov. Lamont for placing importance on our Correctional Center. Upgrading and the installation of cameras works to impose a more secure protection of everyone.”
“Specifically, the East End of Bridgeport, has been waiting years for a project like the Civic Block to be completed,” said Sen Moore. “It could be the beginning of an economic awakening for the residents. I am grateful for the funding that will ensure the project is completed.”
“I am proud of the hard work of the Bridgeport Delegation that helped pave the way for these important projects in our great city” said Rep. Rosario. “I look forward to seeing these investments take shape and thank Governor Lamont and the CIF Board for prioritizing our city in this round of funding.”
“Today’s vote by the State Bond Commission secures vital funding to make major investments in our community,” said Rep. McCarthy Vahey. “Over $8.1 million will go toward three separate projects in Bridgeport that will increase access to career resources, create vibrant, walkable community centers, and ensure public safety. I want to thank the Governor, the State Bond Commission, and most of all the members of the Bridgeport delegation for their continued advocacy and work to secure these funds.”
“This bond funding is critical for Bridgeport because it addresses resources for our workforce – present and future – in addition to trying to eliminate a food desert, where people may be at higher risk of diet-related conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease because of the lack of health food options,” said Rep. Stafstrom. “I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving this funding.”
“Career development and local retail spaces are causes we must always fight for,” said Rep. Gee. “I thank Governor Ned Lamont and the State Bond Commission for funding Career Resources, Inc. and Bridgeport’s Civic Block – projects that will help build a more just and equitable society.”
“This funding supports direct spending on much-needed resources that will improve the quality of life for residents in Bridgeport,” said Rep. Brown. “I would like to thank my colleagues in the Bridgeport Delegation for their work in securing this funding and Governor Lamont and the State Bonding Commission for their consideration.”
“The new retail and career development spaces will provide an incredible boost to our local economy that will be felt by all residents,” said Rep. Baker. “I am immensely proud to see these projects come to fruition after years of hard work and collaboration, and I am excited about these essential services coming to Bridgeport.”
“Each of these projects are focused on providing important services to the residents of Bridgeport, such as job training and economic development, and I am glad that we could get this funding approved,” Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission, said.
Under the Bonding Agenda: $4,536,250 is set to be allocated to Career Resources, Inc. The funds will be used to assist the renovation of Main Street, a 42,500 sq ft building, to facilitate a suite of programs for job training, job placement, case management, referrals to support services, and onsite social enterprises. $3.5 million will be allocated to the City of Bridgeport to help finish the Civic Block project. The funds will be used to complete construction to create a 35,000 sq ft of retail space, including a grocery store in a neighborhood that is currently a food desert. $72,480 will be allocated to Bridgeport Correctional Center for camera installations.