Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) today hailed the recent passage by the General Assembly of a bill funding school construction as a win for Norwalk students and educators. Senator Duff played a key role in ushering the legislation through the Connecticut State Senate.
Senate Bill 184, An Act Concerning Authorization of State Grant Commitments for School Construction Projects, includes critical state funding for several urgent Norwalk school construction projects. The legislation appropriates funding to undertake the immediate remediation of PCBs found in the wood paneling and doors at Norwalk High School.
“As more and more people are choosing Norwalk as a place to live and raise a family, it is important that we ensure we have the space necessary for our students and educators as well as safe, modern facilities that enhance the educational experience,” said Senator Duff. “I want to thank my colleagues in the Senate for their support of this legislation, Rep. Lavielle and Rep. Perone for their work on the bill and shepherding it through the House, and our local officials for all the extensive planning that goes into making these projects a reality.”
“This funding will help Norwalk Public Schools construct, upgrade and repair schools across the district,” said Mayor Harry Rilling. “I want to thank Senator Duff and the other members of the Norwalk delegation who worked diligently to ensure that the Board of Education has the resources it needs to undertake these important projects.”
“We’re grateful to Senator Duff and our entire legislative delegation for providing 100 percent funding for the Norwalk High remediation,” said Dr. Steven Adamowski, superintendent, Norwalk Public Schools. “Additional funds will allow us to fully implement Norwalk’s school building program, which is designed to build much-needed new schools and fix existing school buildings.”
The legislation appropriates more than $14.3 million for expansions at Ponus Ridge Middle School and an unspecified grant for a new South Norwalk school at the site of the former Nathaniel Ely School site to be authorized following the acquisition of land necessary to complete the project. Also included in the bill is funding for improvements at West Rocks Middle School.
