August 23, 2011
WATERBURY DELEGATION WELCOMES FUNDING FOR CHILD CARE FACILITIES
State Bond Commission expected to approve $2.8 million
State Representatives Larry B. Butler (D-Waterbury), Jeff Berger (D-Waterbury) and David Aldarondo (D-Waterbury) welcome an expected $2.8 million in funding headed to Waterbury following this Friday’s state bond commission meeting. The Slocum Childhood Daycare Center at 74 North Walnut Street is slated to receive $2.5 million for renovations of classrooms and administrative space and New Opportunities, Inc. will receive $300,000 for HVAC improvements at their central office.
“I am so proud to see my work on the funding of these projects in the 72nd district become a reality”, said Rep. Butler. “Rep. Aldarondo worked with me on the extra $500,000 and Rep. Berger also helped with his support on the Finance, Revenue, and Bonding committee.”
The work scheduled for the Slocum Childhood Daycare Center includes:
The central office of New Opportunities, Inc will receive installation of a new heating and cooling system. This office houses social service programs including day care, energy assistance and the WIC program.
“This funding will help New Opportunities, Inc. expand and improve its Childhood Daycare Center as well as making vital improvements to their building that is used to assist thousands of people with social services each and every year,” said Rep. Butler. “Dr. Gatling and his staff are held in high regard for the services they provide and I’m glad to be able to help them as they help so many others.”
“Child care continues to be a major stumbling block to self sufficiency and I am very pleased to see it receives the proper attention in this funding package. Also, New Opportunities has been providing critical services for many years through various programs and dedicated staff,” Rep. Berger said. “Given the state of the economy and the diminishing federal dollars, we must continue to push for and support any assistance that can be provided to keep these crucial programs intact.”
“This is important funding to pay for needed renovations and improvements to facilities that provide programs that serve our greater community," Rep. Aldarondo said. "I want to thank Governor Malloy for placing $2.8 million for Waterbury on the Bond Commission's agenda for action.”
Both projects are anticipated to result in 51 construction related jobs to complete the necessary work.