Norwalk Receives $9M In State Bonding Funding For Local Projects

Information via Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff

NORWALK, CT — Norwalk leaders announced this week over $9 million in state bonding funding for local projects.

Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff, and state representatives Lucy Dathan, Dominique Johnson, Kadeem Roberts and Travis Simms applauded the announcement in a news release Monday.

"Another day and another large investment from the state of Connecticut in Norwalk," Duff said in a news release. "This round of state bonding money will provide for improvement in housing, the arts, education, and traffic and pedestrian safety. I would like to thank Governor [Ned] Lamont and the bond commission for approving these projects and continuing to support our great city."

According to the release, the bond agenda includes $300,000 in new funding for expansion and renovations of 7,000 square feet of space for new dressing rooms, production facilities, and other amenities at the Music Theatre of Connecticut.

Music Theatre of Connecticut seeks to preserve, present, and extend the greatest traditions of American theatre through immersive professional performances and educational programming of the highest quality.

Located on Westport Avenue, it is the leading professional theatre and conservatory in Norwalk, according to the release.

"These projects are each focused on improving the quality of life for the residents of Norwalk," Lamont said in a news release, "and I am glad that our administration could work with Senator Duff on getting them approved."

Side by Side Charter School will receive $268,922 for electrical service upgrade, air conditioning upgrade, staff room renovation, exterior doors, and flooring.

Side by Side is a regional public charter school located in the heart of downtown South Norwalk educating 235 Pre-K through 8th grade students, according to the release.

"I applaud the vital funding for the arts, housing, education and streetscape improvements, as these investments enrich our communities, foster creativity and improve the quality of life for our residents," Dathan said in a news release. "I am grateful to my Norwalk colleagues for our collaborative efforts advocating for our city, and to the governor for prioritizing these projects."

Additionally, the bond agenda will officially approve two previous projects put forth by the Community Investment Fund.

Norwalk Housing Authority will receive $3,444,751 for a project at 45 Meadow St. The funds will support replacement of 54 units of obsolete affordable housing with 55 modern, energy efficient, affordable housing units and amenities, according to the release.

Norwalk Redevelopment Agency will receive $3,000,000 for South Norwalk streetscape improvements. The funds will go toward significant capital improvements to public infrastructure to support pedestrian infrastructure and align with completed mobility study.

"I could not be more pleased that Norwalk will be receiving more funding to assist in the expansion of several projects for which its residents can be proud, including affordable housing at 45 Meadow Street," Simms said in a news release. "I would like to thank Governor Lamont and the bond commission for their support."

The bond agenda is set to be formally approved on June 7.

"I'd like to thank Governor Lamont and the bond commission for allocating $9 million to Norwalk," Johnson said in a news release. "These projects will go a long way towards strengthening the city, and I look forward to seeing how this investment benefits the community."

Roberts noted the bond allocation is another example of the state's commitment to Norwalk.

"I am excited that our city is set to receive funding that will make Norwalk an even better community for residents and visitors alike," Roberts said in a news release. "Thank you to thank Governor Lamont and the bond commission for your approval of these projects."