September 24, 2024
EAST HARTFORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $1.5 MILLION IN COMMUNITY INVESTMENT FUND SUPPORT FOR MAIN STREET REDESIGN
Today, the East Hartford Delegation of lawmakers welcomed the Community Investment Fund’s allocation of $1.5 million to support redesign efforts for East Hartford’s Main Street. The funding will specifically support design efforts for Main Street improvements, as well as site acquisition in the area.
While there is no management program in place at this time for Main Street, this funding will support efforts for the redesign of the area to support business development, traffic improvements and potential town acquisition of buildings in the area for demolition or redevelopment. Recent studies have indicated redevelopments could include the use of a new bridge in town connecting Hartford and East Hartford, among other changes, and have spurred thoughts on how the town can best approach changing needs.
“I welcome this funding to help us re-envision our Main Street in East Hartford that will support the investments made by current property owners and businesses and make the area more attractive for economic development,” House Majority Leader Jason Rojas (D-East Hartford) said. “As a member of the Community Investment Fund Board I want to thank Speaker Ritter, Senate President Looney and Governor Lamont for prioritizing this effort,” Majority Leader Jason Rojas said.
“I’m pleased to hear of this grant funding and support for our region,” said State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor). “Pursuing the redesign of East Hartford’s main road could lead to significant improvements in the future. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the CIF’s leadership for their support of our region.”
“Whether it’s a redesign, redevelopment or reimagination, I am proud of the collaboration between the East Hartford legislative delegation and Mayor Connor Martin to push for the brightest possible future for our Main Street,” said State Representative Jeff Currey (D-East Hartford, Manchester). “I am grateful for the recognition and support from the CIF Board in this effort.”
“This is a tremendous victory for East Hartford. I can’t wait for our community to reap the benefits of this investment. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the CIF leadership board for their support,” said State Representative Henry Genga (D-East Hartford).
The Community Investment Fund 2030 (CIF) fosters economic development in historically underserved communities across the state. CIF will provide a total of up to $875 million to eligible municipalities as well as not-for-profit organizations and community development corporations that operate within them.
Grants are available for capital improvement programs, such as brownfield remediation, affordable housing and home or public facility rehabilitation; small business capital programs, including revolving or micro loan programs, gap financing, and start-up funds; and planning for capital projects including activities such as community engagement processes and feasibility studies. |
