Senator Marx Secures Millions Supporting Early Childhood Education, Shore Line East, Local Parks, Child Care, Military, Youth Services

The Senate voted Tuesday to approve the use of more than $372.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding soon to expire, including $2 million to support the Early Childhood Center at B.P. Learned Mission, which offers day classes and special education classes to the community; $5 million for services on Shore Line East, and $200,000 for the Thames River Heritage Park as it became part of the Passport to the Parks program. It further provided $1.8 million for regional child care support, $5.224 million to support a microgrid at the U.S. Naval Submarine Base New London and $107,500 for local youth service organizations.

State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London) was proud to see this funding included as the bill passed 26-10.

The B.P. Learned Mission Early Childhood Center opened in 2021 to provide Birth to Age 8 child care services. It allows New London’s school district to shift all of its preschool programs from the Harbor School to the new building. It also hosts social service programs and additional town resources.

The $5 million for Shore Line East will support the resumption of an additional peak service train in the morning and evening. Public comment will be sought for the best times to restore service.

The Thames River Heritage Park will be one of two parks added to the Passport to the Parks program’s funding benefits, receiving up to $200,000 annually in support.

The Tri-Share Child Care Matching Program will receive $1.8 million supporting child care in New London County, including support for Electric Boat employees.

The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection may reimburse the costs up to $5.224 million associated with the design and construction of a microgrid at the U.S. Naval Submarine Base New London.

Finally, 11 local youth service preservation organizations will receive support, including $10,000 for the Drop-In Learning Center, $5,000 for the Eastern Connecticut Symphony, $15,000 for Higher Edge, $10,000 for the Hispanic Alliance of Southeastern Connecticut, $7,500 for New England Sailing and Swimming, $10,000 each for New London Babe Ruth, New London Football, New London Cheerleaders and New London Little League, $10,000 for Safe Futures and $10,000 for Whales Helping Helpers.

“Delivering support for vital early childhood education for our local community is a proud accomplishment, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg for this valuable support for the 20^th District and the region,” said Sen. Marx. “From supporting our parks to public transportation, from supporting our military to smaller grants benefitting so many local organizations, I’m excited for these funds to benefit learning and growth for local children for years to come.”

President Biden and Democrats in Congress passed the American Rescue Plan Act in March of 2021 as a means of boosting the American economy amid a downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. It has since supported initiatives including workforce development, public health and safety, and local governments across the nation.