July 22, 2014
State Representative Gregory Haddad is pleased to announce today, that the State Bonding Commission is expected to approve $100,000 in state financing to help support the building of a new community playground in Mansfield.
Haddad, joined by State Senator Donald Williams and State Reps. Mae Flexer and Linda Orange, anticipate approvals at the upcoming July 25th State Bond Commission meeting at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford and thank Governor Malloy for his support.
“Mansfield's kids deserve a playground that they've helped design and build. I'm grateful Governor Malloy has recognized the importance of this project to our community,” said Gregg Haddad. “I anticipate the bond commission's action on Friday will be an affirmation of the value of this playground to Mansfield.”
“Encouraging our children to lead healthy and active lives must start at a young age,” said Governor Malloy. “I’m pleased that, working with local legislators, we were able to move this project forward.”
“The new playground will offer a fun and safe community space for young children to play, allow for social and physical development and will provide a fantastic opportunity for parents to interact with their children outdoors,” said Senate President Donald E. Williams, Jr. (D-Brooklyn). “I want to thank Governor Malloy and Mansfield’s legislative delegation for their support of this project.”
If more than 50% of the State Bond Commission members vote to approve the request at the Friday meeting, the funds will be delivered to the town and added to the private donations already collected to build the Jeffrey P. Ossen Family Foundation Playground. Designed to be accessible to all children, including those with physical, cognitive, and neurological disabilities, construction is expected to begin in the next few months as part of an ongoing effort by Mansfield Advocates for Children to strengthen community connections and enhance the overall quality of life in Mansfield.
"So many members of the community have been working hard on this issue and I'm glad the state has stepped up to be a partner in creating this playground in Mansfield. I want to especially thank Gregg Haddad for his work pushing this forward." Said State Rep. Mae Flexer (D - Killingly, Plainfield).
“I’m thrilled this project will be moving forward,” State Rep. Linda Orange (D-Colchester) said. “This playground will be a gathering place for children and families. Mansfield has strong advocates in Rep. Haddad and Sen. Williams. I’m proud to be a part of the team.”
For more information on the Jeffrey P. Ossen Family Foundation Playground, visit: www.mansfieldcommunityplayground.org