Simsbury Concert Venue Gets Major State Funding

SIMSBURY, CT — A major musical venue in Simsbury Friday learned it will receive $900,000 from the State of Connecticut for facility expansion and improvements.

The vote by the State Bond Commission drew bipartisan applause from the two lawmakers representing Simsbury: state Rep. Melissa Osborne, D-Simsbury, and state Sen. Lisa Seminara, R-Avon.

The duo issued a joint statement expressing excitement over the news the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center, 22 Iron Horse Blvd., Simsbury, is getting much-needed funding.

According to the two lawmakers, construction will include adding backstage, storage, office and rehearsal space, and updating ADA compliance.

In addition, they said, public-facing permanent restrooms will also be added and extend service to the nearby East Coast Greenway and Rotary Park facilities.

“This is a huge win for Simsbury because this unprecedented investment will attract bigger acts, drive economic development, and create additional jobs in our community,” said Osborne. “The planned expansion will allow the facility to reach its full potential by drawing more diverse, larger scale, and more frequent programming. Area hotels, businesses, event staff, and performers will reap the benefits of the added tourism.”

“I am grateful to everyone who championed this project and to Governor Ned Lamont, Speaker of the House Matt Ritter, House Chair of the State Bond Commission Rep. Ron Napoli Jr., and Deputy Director of Policy Zoë Gluck for their work and support in bringing these valuable funds to Simsbury.”

“This funding news is music to our collective ears,” said Seminara, who represents Simsbury in the 8th Senate District. “Simsbury Meadows is a gem – attracting visitors from throughout the region to experience world-class, unforgettable musical performances as well as family programming, festivals, athletics events, races, and markets. We also thank the governor for recognizing that Simsbury Meadows adds greatly to our quality of life.

"These funds will enable this respected venue to make strategic upgrades in order to continue to be a community magnet for the arts, recreation, and family fun.”

The site plan for the project has already passed the Simsbury Conservation Commission and Design Review Board and will now go before the zoning board.

Osborne is a member of the Appropriations, Judiciary, and General Law committees and represents the 16th House District of Simsbury. Seminara is ranking senator on the Human Services Committee, the Aging Committee, and the Committee on Children. She also serves on the Education Committee and represents the 8th District, which includes Simsbury.

For more information on the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center, click on this link.