EAST HARFORD—Senator Tim Larson (D-East Hartford) and the East Hartford legislative delegation announced today that the State Bond Commission is expected approve a $1.5 million grant-in-aid to the YMCA of Greater Hartford for renovations and improvements to the Lois Nolan Larson Community Center at Mayberry Village in East Hartford when it meets on Friday, April 13.
“I appreciate the support of Governor Malloy to get these items on the Bond Commission’s agenda. For many years, the YMCA has been a mainstay in our town for support and education of our youth. I’m very excited to see this property renovated in order to incorporate the many special programs and activities that the ‘Y’ provides for our community,” Sen. Larson said. “I also want to thank the other members of the East Hartford delegation for their support on this very important initiative.”
“The YMCA’s focus is youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. We are thankful to Governor Malloy for recognizing our mission and for placing this bond request on the Commission’s agenda,” YMCA President & CEO Harold Sparrow said in a thank-you letter to Sen. Larson (attached). “With the bond, we will live our cause of helping to strengthen the foundation of the Mayberry Village community through programs at the YMCA Larson Center of Excellence.”
“This investment in the Larson Center and the wonderful partnership with the YMCA of Greater Hartford will enhance the quality of life and programming for the families and visitors to Mayberry Village,” said Representative Jason Rojas (D-East Hartford), co-chairman of the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee. “The Larson Center is in the heart of the neighborhood and the investment by Governor Malloy and the state will ensure that the center will continue to be a resource to our community for years to come.”
“I commend the YMCA for taking the necessary steps to acquire an old building in need of repair from the Housing Authority in an economically depressed area of East Hartford in order expand services,” Representative Henry Genga (D-East Hartford) said. “If they did not, this area would not have any of these services or expansion to kids’ programs. This project will open up many additional programs that are indispensable for a healthy and thriving community. I look forward to the continued transformation of this parcel and thank Governor Malloy for including this item in the latest round of funding.”
“The East Hartford ‘Y’ has been a staple within our community for many years,” said Representative Jeff Currey (D-East Hartford, Manchester, South Windsor). “These funds will be used for necessary renovations and improvements, allowing the YMCA to offer even more programs, services and worthwhile activities to the residents of East Hartford and beyond. Thank you to the governor and his fellow Bond Commission members for continuing to support worthy organizations working towards to the betterment of our town.”