Hamden Awarded State Grant For Economic Development Project

HAMDEN, CT — The State Bond Commission has approved funds for an economic development project in Hamden.

The nonprofit group Transcend the Trend, Inc. was awarded $250,000 to be used for a feasibility study for the renovation of the former Paier College of Art campus into a community arts center.

“’Hamden Arts & Learning Oasis (HALO)’ – Transcend The Trend (TTT) has a mission to achieve equity in the local education system in and through the arts,” according to the grant award description. “The planning grant request is community engagement and a feasibility study to inform architectural and design plans to renovate space on the former Paier College of Art campus into an arts and cultural hub.”

The funds were part of $77 million that went to 35 projects across the state in the sixth round of grants under the Community Investment Fund 2030, Gov. Ned Lamont recently announced.

“Through this grant program, we are helping municipalities throughout Connecticut make improvements in underserved areas that will enhance their economic vibrancy and revitalize neighborhoods,” Lamont said in a statement. “I am glad that we can partner with these towns and cities and other organizations to make these improvements that will drive growth in our state.”

State Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven, Hamden) said the Community Investment Fund is one of the “most transformative economic development tools we’ve created in recent years.”

“These grants are targeted investments to uplift underserved communities, assist struggling nonprofit social service organizations, promote equity, and spur long-term economic growth across Connecticut,” Looney said. “I am proud to see this funding approved and look forward to its meaningful impact on cities and towns throughout our state.”