May 27, 2014
Governor Dannel P. Malloy announced that $3.1 million to fund improvements at Sherwood Island State Park in Westport is expected to be approved at the next meeting of the state Bond Commission. The funding will allow for major renovations to the park’s main pavilion, among other upgrades. State Representative Jonathan Steinberg (D-Westport) cheered the news.
“Sherwood Island is Connecticut’s first state park and is visited by hundreds of thousands of park goers every year,” said Governor Malloy. “It is also home to the state’s 9/11 Memorial and therefore has a special place in the state park system. The main pavilion has not seen any major renovations in nearly 25 years and is showing its age.”
"As vice chair of the Energy and Technology Committee, I’m especially pleased with the solar panel installation on the pavilion roof,” said Rep. Steinberg. “I want to thank Governor Malloy for his commitment to Connecticut’s first state park, which we are lucky to enjoy here in Westport.”
The main pavilion was originally built in 1961. The funding being requested will allow the Department of Construction Services, in conjunction with the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), to install a new roof on the pavilion along with solar panels for electricity and hot water. In addition, the plumbing and bathroom facilities will be updated, upgrades will be made to the concession area, and necessary site landscaping will be completed.
"As we continue to celebrate the one hundredth anniversary of Connecticut’s state park system, it is vital that we invest in their infrastructure to ensure all park visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience,” added Governor Malloy. “Our state parks are destinations for millions of people every year and provide many recreational opportunities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking. They also contribute significantly to the state’s economy.”
The Bond Commission meeting will be held on Friday, May 30 in Room 1E of the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.