House Republican Press Release

September 25, 2006

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Governor Rell Announces ‘STEAP’ Funding To Renovate Middlefield Community Center

Governor M. Jodi Rell announced today that $350,000 in new state funding will soon be available for renovations to the Middlefield Community Center located on Main Street. The funding comes from the state’s Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) that is to be approved at the next meeting of the State Bond Commission.

Funds will pay for the repairs to the building’s exterior, new windows, paving the parking lot, installation of air conditioning, electrical upgrades, and renovating the senior center kitchen.

“The town’s Community Center will receive a well-deserved facelift,” said Governor Rell. “Not only will the facility operate more efficiently, the improvements will provide a safer, more healthy environment for the many individuals and organizations that use the building.”

In addition to housing the senior center and the Durham Middlefield Youth and Family Services, the building is also made available to charitable organizations.

“These much needed improvements and renovations will bring new life to a tired building that has been struggling to meet the needs of the town,” said State Representative Raymond Kalinowski. “Built in 1920, this former elementary school is in need of an overhaul and we are thrilled that Governor Rell has recognized the value of our Community Center and its place of importance in this town. Improving the quality of services we are able to offer our residents is a continuous process that speaks well for our future.”

A total of $20 million has been authorized for more than 100 small towns under the STEAP program this fiscal year.  The Bond Commission will meet on October 6, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. in the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.