Board of Regents Make Decision on Middlesex Meriden Campus

The state Board of regents for Higher Education announced that it will keep Middlesex Community College’s Meriden campus and manufacturing institute open after both the state House of Representatives and Senate voted to block the closure.

The house voted on the matter earlier this week and the senate voted last week.

The announcement that the campus would close drew shock and anger from some students.

Regent President Gregory Gray made the announcement Wednesday morning that the board would abandon the closure plans.

“This is an incredible victory for the students of Middlesex Community College, and for downtown Meriden,” said Senator Danté Bartolomeo (D-Meriden). “When we learned of this plan, students and legislators rallied to keep the school open, and today it was announced that our voices were heard. Students will be able to continue pursuing their degrees in Meriden, and the Manufacturing Program will continue to operate.”

Senate President Martin Looney and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff said the General Assembly has made it clear that the system shouldn’t balance its budget on the backs of vulnerable students.

“We are pleased that the Board of Regents has reversed course and will continue to enroll students at its Meriden branch,” they said.