State Bond Commission Approves Funds For Stamford Projects

Stamford CT

21 December, 2021

5:45 PM

Description

STAMFORD, CT — On Tuesday, the State of Connecticut Bond Commission voted to approve more than $4 million in funding for different local projects in Stamford. Two million dollars will go towards the construction of a science observatory center at the Stamford Museum and Nature Center, and $500,000 will be used to improve safety and accessability of playscape throughout Stamford. Additionally, $75,000 is earmarked for the replacement of basketball courts and other improvements at Northrop Park, and $410,000 will go towards renovations at the Stamford Courthouse. This comes on the heels of the state putting Westhill High School on its 2022 Priority School Construction List. A rebuilt Westhill will accommodate all existing programs and students, have air-conditioning, and will be sized to serve future growth at the school. The existing school will remain operational during construction of the new high school, which is estimated to cost $258 million. "When I talk to families in Stamford, they want to see better schools, accessible parks, and more options for our community and its children to learn and engage with one another, and that's precisely what this new funding is aimed at doing," said Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons in a news release on Tuesday. "I want to thank Stamford's great delegation in the General Assembly, Gov. Lamont, and the State Bond Commission for moving these key projects forward. Each of these projects represent an important win for our city, but we also know that much more must be done in the years ahead to continue making Stamford a vibrant, livable, and affordable city for its residents," she added. Several other elected officials weighed-in on the funding. State Rep. Matt Blumenthal (D-Stamford, Darien) said the investments will benefit economic development and quality of life of people in the Stamford area. "In particular, the $2 million for the Stamford Museum and Nature Center's observatory will serve not only Stamford students, but also as a regional attraction and economic driver for our city," he said in a news release. The funds will create new recreational opportunities for people of all ages, according to State Rep. Corey Paris (D-Stamford). "Thank you to the Governor and members of the bond commission for recognizing the value of these projects and choosing to invest in Stamford," added Paris. With the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic still being felt, State Sen. Patricia Billie Miller (D-Stamford, Darien) believes the local projects and attractions can help people recover. "The pandemic had a major impact on our lives, especially our mental well-being. Access to spaces like Northrop Park, a science observatory center, and other parks around the city have been outlets for residents, including our children, to relieve some of the stresses many of us are experiencing during these difficult times," she said in a news release. "I look forward to the benefits these upgrades and investments will provide." State Reps. David Michel and Dan Fox (D-Stamford) both thanked the state for its support of Stamford.