NORWALK – The State Bond Commission is expected Friday to approve $24.67 million in state aid for two major Norwalk projects, according to Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk).
Duff announced Tuesday, July 29, that the State Bond Commission is expected to approve funds for a $22 million renovation at CT State Community College Norwalk, and a $2.5 million investment in the Norwalk Maritime Aquarium’s “An Aquarium Without Walls” strategic plan, which aims to deepen the community’s connection with Long Island Sound.
Both items are expected to be approved when the State Bond Commission meets this Friday, Aug. 1, at 10:30 a.m. in Room 1-E of the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.
“Norwalk is growing by leaps and bounds, and state investments like this help drive that growth by making Norwalk a dynamic and attractive place to live and work,” Duff said.
He mentioned that the community college has has come a long way since its first class of 60 freshmen meeting at Brien McMahon High School in the early 1960’s. Now it enrolls 4,400 students studying in four dozen different fields.
The state funding would be used to pay for addressing the roof and structural issues in the B Wing, which is the largest classroom building on campus.
Connecticut State Community College Interim Chancellor O. John Maduko pointed out that modernizing the Norwalk campus B-Wing will help ensure the school remains accessible and competitive.
“CT State Norwalk is a key economic driver for Connecticut, training the next generation of nurses, STEM and business leaders, computer scientists, teachers, chefs and so much more,” Maduko said. “This state bonding invests in the heart of Norwalk’s campus – the B-Wing, which houses essential student services for more than 4,000 credit and workforce learners.”
As for the Maritime Aquarium funding, the $2.5 million will be used to support innovative capital construction and support capital improvements to reduce the aquarium’s carbon footprint, according to aquarium President & CEO Jason Patlis.
“A recent independent study estimated that the aquarium contributes $89 million annually to the state’s economy, and this bond funding will allow us to do even more for our community and the state,” Patlis said. “In particular, it will support innovative capital construction projects as part of our strategy to create ‘An Aquarium without Walls,’ introducing Long Island Sound and the ocean to our visitors in unique and creative ways.”
Other state legislators who represent Norwalk were appreciative of the expected funding for both projects.
Rep. Dominique Johnson (D-Norwalk)
“This funding is a great victory for our community. CT State Norwalk is an excellent institution, and these funds will ensure that the quality of the facilities matches the quality of the education.”
Rep. Kadeem Roberts (D-Norwalk)
“CT State Norwalk and the Norwalk Maritime Aquarium are two cornerstones of our community. The former provides top notch education that is affordable and accessible, while the latter provides entertainment and education to individuals of all ages.”
Rep. Travis Simms (D-Norwalk)
“The announcement of significant bonding for Norwalk is a testament to our commitment to enhancing educational and cultural opportunities for all residents. The funding for CT State Norwalk Community College will help ensure that our students have access to modern, efficient spaces that support their academic and career goals, while also addressing essential infrastructure needs. Additionally, the investment in the Maritime Aquarium’s ‘An Aquarium Without Walls’ strategic plan is an exciting step forward in strengthening our community’s educational and tourism assets.”
