House Republican Press Release
April 29, 2004
Press Office: 860-240-8700
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DelGobbo Secures $300,0000 for Naugatuck High School Auditorium Restoration |
Final Approval Expected from Bond Commission Friday
Rep. Kevin M. DelGobbo, R-70th, Naugatuck, announced today that he, with the strong support of the entire Naugatuck legislative delegation, has gained approval for a $300,000 grant to be used for the restoration of Naugatuck High School’s Davis Auditorium. The state Bond Commission is scheduled to approve the funds at its monthly meeting, Friday, April 30.
Rep. DelGobbo, a 1982 Naugatuck High School graduate, cochairs a group of Naugatuck residents formed to undertake a capital campaign for the auditorium restoration, the Davis Auditorium Restoration Committee (DARC).
“I’m ecstatic at this news,” said Rep. DelGobbo. “I along with a great group of people have put our heart and soul into planning for and moving ahead on this project. I am extremely grateful to Gov. Rowland for his support of this project.”
He added, “What this grant will do is enable us to move forward on Phase I of the project. This will include completely replacing all the old seating, as well as other improvements to the auditorium. This includes lighting, carpeting and stage work as well as remodeling restrooms.”
A few weeks ago, Rep. DelGobbo and Naugatuck Arts Commission Cochairman Charles Marenghi launched a fundraising effort encouraging members of the public to “buy a seat” where they will contribute $100 and have their name placed on a seat in the auditorium. "This campaign is expected to raise the remaining $150,000 needed for Phase I," said Rep. DelGobbo.
Last year, the group commissioned an engineering and architectural analysis of what is needed to restore the auditorium. Rep. DelGobbo said the group projects $1.5 million would be needed for a complete restoration including a new sound system, stage lighting, improvements to the lobby and other renovations.
Rep. DelGobbo said, “This auditorium is truly a vital asset for the community
and the Naugatuck Valley. Not only is it a home for extraordinary talented
student productions, but is also used for many other community and regional
events.
Rep. DelGobbo, a member of the Naugatuck Economic Development Corporation, has
pointed to this improvement as part of a long-term plan to make Naugatuck a
more attractive place in which to live, do business and invest in economic
growth.
Rep. DelGobbo noted the efforts to the entire Naugatuck delegation for this project. “As always, the entire delegation worked together to help make this possible,” he said.
Rep. David K. Labriola, R-131st, said, “The Davis Auditorium in many ways is the heart of Naugatuck. As an NHS graduate myself, I am especially pleased that we secured this funding.”
Sen. Joseph J. Crisco, D-17th, said, “The funding that will help make necessary upgrades at Naugatuck High School is an excellent use of state funds. We have to ensure well maintained schools for the students and staff members.”
Sen. Joan V. Hartley, D-15th, said, “This allocation of state resources for the high school auditorium is crucial to the curriculum offerings and vital to the students’ and faculty’s ability to create the best educational experience.”