House Republican Press Release

October 30, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REP. SCRIBNER: NEW BOND PACKAGE CONTAINS FUNDING FOR LOCAL PROJECTS

HARTFORD- The General Assembly today approved a bonding package that includes key items for Brookfield, said State Rep. David Scribner (R-Brookfield, Bethel). The package was approved during a special legislative session and now goes to Gov. M. Jodi Rell for final approval. The funding is expected to be awarded in a future monthly meeting of the State Bond Commission.

The package includes $878,050 in state funding for the Regional YMCA of Western Connecticut’s Greenknoll Branch, located on Huckleberry Hill Road. The funding will be used to enclose the recently- opened aquatic center, which will allow it to be used year-round. The facility serves 22 towns in Western Connecticut.

The aquatic center replaces 3 small, 50 year old pools that did not meet health and ADA codes. However, it can only be currently operated from June through mid September. The second phase of the project will install heaters and enclose the pool.

“We desperately need a year-round use facility,” said Greg Dembowski, Developmental Director for the Regional YMCA of Western Connecticut. “This funding will go a long way toward completing the second phase of the project. When the grant is received, we will start construction immediately.”

“This is great news for Brookfield and the greater Danbury region,” said Rep. Scribner. “When completed, this will allow for significantly more use of the aquatic center for local children and adults.”

In addition, the bond package includes $439,025 for the Town of Brookfield to aid in the expansion of the town’s Senior Center. The funding will be used toward the expansion of the Pocono Road facility and to purchase new computer equipment.

“I’m pleased the request for the Brookfield Senior Center has been included in the bond package,” said Rep. Scribner. “The funding will allow for important upgrades to the facility and allow it to enhance programs offered to local seniors.”