February 4, 2005

STATE REPS. DONOVAN, ALTOBELLO & MUSHINSKY ANNOUNCE STATE FUNDING APPROVED FOR THE PURCHASE OF OPEN SPACE ON DEE AVE.

Hartford, CT – Majority Christopher G. Donovan (D-84), Deputy Speaker Emil “Buddy” Altobello (D-82) and State Representative Mary Mushinsky (D-85) have announced the approval of $150,000 in state funding for the purchase of a lot in the Hunter’s Trail wetlands area on Dee Avenue so it can be used as open space. The funding was approved at today’s state Bond Commission meeting.

“I am very pleased that the state has approved this very worthwhile project,” stated Representative Donovan, Majority Leader of the state House of Representatives. “I talked to the Governor’s office last week to ensure this would be approved today. Preserving open space, the environment, and wildlife is a priority for Meriden. We need to have land available and accessible for future generations to enjoy, not to mention ensuring a future home for our wildlife and continued protection of our environment.”

In addition to the state money, the city will contribute $40,000 toward the purchase. The funding was approved at today’s state Bond Commission meeting and is part of a grant for urban development projects.

“This money will enable the city to purchase almost six acres of vacant land on Dee Avenue and preserve it as open space,” added Rep. Altobello. “It is important that, while we work toward continued economic growth in our city, that we keep land open and free of development, so we can enjoy it in the future. Altobello serves as Deputy Speaker of the House.

“The funding released today is a reward for the hard work of those who want to protect a wetland that is important to environmental health,” said Rep. Mushinsky. “Their perseverance, and the developers willingness to offer land at a reduced price, was very helpful.”