Improvements to New Haven’s Long Wharf Park and a climate business incubator were among the initiatives getting a financial boost this week.
The State Bond Commission on Thursday approved releasing $99 million to support a second round of grants under the Community Investment Fund 2030.
The grant program was created in 2022 to support economic development in underserved communities. In the region, New Haven, Hamden and Stratford were among the beneficiaries of this latest round of funding.
Statewide, approximately $875 million in grants will be issued over a five-year period via the program. The money is earmarked for projects such as capital improvements, affordable housing, brownfield remediation and small-business support programs.Â
Gov. Ned Lamont said the program would provide opportunities for the state’s cities and towns to revitalize their economic base.
Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney, D-New Haven, said the latest round of funding furthers the goal of creating lasting results in the state.
“We cannot address systemic poverty and inequality without making the necessary investments in underserved communities,” Looney said.
This second round of grants supports projects in 20 municipalities statewide.
In the New Haven area, that includes the following grant amounts, municipalities and projects:Â
$12.1 million, New Haven, Long Wharf Responsible Growth Plan
Funds will be used to revitalize Long Wharf Park, with improvements to furniture, lighting, playground, bike paths, outdoor fitness, walkways and a food truck pavilion.
$910,744, New Haven, ClimateHaven
Money will go toward ClimateHaven’s climate-tech business incubator. The space will contain co-working space, convening space, and shared resources for program participants pursuing start-up businesses focused on a sustainable, renewable future.
$700,000, New Haven, Boardman Residential Care Home Renovation
Grant funding will be used to finalize renovation plans for the Boardman Residential Care Home, which houses 45 seniors living at or below the federal poverty level. The project involves preserving existing housing and renovating a historic structure.
$2.2 million, New Haven, Life Haven ShelterÂ
Money will go toward capital improvements to Life Haven Shelter, a homeless shelter for women and children. Planned upgrades include roof replacement, electrical upgrades, elevator replacement and repair work to water-damaged walls.
$5.4 million, Hamden, Community Campus Â
Funds will assist with the redevelopment of the former Hamden middle school building, now blighted and vacant. Money will be used toward demolition and abatement, and for planning for a new Community Campus.
$2.4 million, Stratford, South End Community Center
Grant money will go toward interior and exterior renovation of the South End Community Center. The upgrades will allow for expanded capacity for afterschool programming, office space, social services, food pantry, daycare and senior uses.
Contact Michelle Tuccitto Sullo at msullo@newhavenbiz.com
