Rick Lopes

Senator Lopes, New Britain Delegation Welcomes over $5.7 Million in State Bonding for Projects in New Britain

Today, the New Britain Delegation comprised of state Senator Rick Lopes (D-New Britain), Representatives Peter Tercyak (D-New Britain), Manny Sanchez (D-New Britain), Robert Sanchez (D-New Britain), and Gary Turco (D-New Britain), is welcoming $5.7 million in funding approved by the State Bond Commission for projects in New Britain. Funds will be allocated to Meriden New Britain Berlin YMCA in New Britain and a historic mill complex on Ellis Street in New Britain.

“The New Britain community is in need of pre-k childcare and this funding will allow expansion in downtown New Britain as well as general improvements to the New Britain branch of the YMCA,” said Sen. Lopes. “I am thankful to the State Bond Commission and Governor Lamont for their support in helping parents and families in need. Their continued support and investments are crucial for the future of New Britain.”

“This funding presents a great opportunity for New Britain,” said Rep. Tercyak. “Given childcare and affordable housing’s critical importance to our state’s success, I’m proud to see New Britain putting these funds to good use and continuing to build a more inclusive community.”

“Investments in childcare and housing are always needed and welcomed – this transformation of otherwise dormant space is a much more beneficial use, and I am sure every last additional childcare slot will be a blessing for families in need,” said Rep. Manny Sanchez. “This is a sound investment for the future of New Britain.”

“The foundation of thriving neighborhoods and communities is access to childcare and housing,” said Rep. Robert Sanchez. “I am very pleased with the funding approval and look forward to the increased participation of children that will allow more parents to pursue and maintain gainful employment.”

“These are vital investments in the expansion of child care services and affordable housing,” said Rep. Gary Turco. “Investing in child care and affordable housing is essential because the returns on investment are immeasurable for children and families, the workforce and the local economy. I want to thank Governor Lamont and State Bond Commission for approving these critical community investments.”

“These funds will enable New Britain to expand services in two critical areas that have been priorities for my administration – access to childcare and affordable housing,” Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission, said. “I am glad that we could partner with these local organizations and make these projects a reality.”

Under the bonding agenda: The Meriden New Britain Berlin Young Men’s Christian Association in New Britain will be allocated $1.7 million to help with the renovation of some of the unused racquetball courts, repurposing them to create six additional childcare classrooms within the NAEYC accredited center. This expansion will allow increased childcare capacity for 72 children; The Ellis Street Mill, LLC will be allocated a $4 million loan for the adaptive reuse of the historic mill complex located at 321 Ellis Street in New Britain. The rehabilitation will result in 154 new affordable housing units for those making between 30% and 80% Area Median Income (AMI). 21 of these units will be for those making at or below 30% AMI.