Bonds Approved For Coast Guard Museum Project

NEW LONDON, CT — State Representative Christine Conley (Democrat-Ledyard/Groton) and State Representative Joe de la Cruz (Democrat-Groton/New London) announced Friday they are pleased with the approval of a $19.5 million grant from the state Department of Economic and Community Development for the planned National Coast Guard Museum.

“The museum will be a welcome addition to the many tourist attractions that already draw people to southeastern Connecticut,” Conley said in a release. “The state grant demonstrates to potential donors that we will make this project happen.”

“In addition to tourism, the museum shows our recognition of the Coast Guard, here in Connecticut and across the U.S.,” de la Cruz said in a release. “Members of the Coast Guard put their lives on the line every day so I am proud that the museum will be a tribute to service to their country.”

Planned for downtown New London, the grant is designated for a pedestrian bridge spanning Water Street and the Amtrak railroad tracks. The National Coast Guard Museum is an estimated $100 million project.

The museum association will use the state commitment as a tool to attract funds that will make the project a reality.

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